Disaster relief crews are on standby as first responders do their work and assessors move into the area. 

Despite the tragedy, it’s a blessing to know that people who care are quick to rush to the help of others facing dark days.

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You are learning every day. You don’t need a scientific poll to realize that. Some sort of media or influence is affecting your thinking and view of the world every day.

An election season billed as the most important of our lives lends itself to stories where falsehoods outpaced the truth, at least for a time. 

Southwestern Seminary Professor Malcolm Yarnell says this is why Christians should stay tethered to the truths of Christ.

“Let’s not turn our politicians into messiahs [and] political parties into a church,” he said. “That is where we begin to confuse the Kingdom of God with the kingdom of this world.”

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For the past two and a half years Baptist Press has had the privilege of bringing you Good News for Today. We’ve tried to find a way to report news accurately and fairly with a biblical and Christ-centered perspective. 

Due to some changes at Baptist Press, unfortunately, today marks the end of our radio and podcast feature.

Thank you for listening. We do not take our readers…or listeners for granted. Thank you for the opportunity to share news and content with you over radio stations across North America.

After 76 years, the work of Baptist Press will at our website. We hope you’ll read our stories there.

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. You can help share the light of Christ. Learn how at IMB.org.

The early sunrise, clouds and rains variously served as the backdrop for social media photos attesting to student participation.

The event is designed to spark a continual prayer movement and lifestyle change, with resources available through the partner ministry Claim Your Campus, and was preceded in some communities by prayerwalks and student ministry events, organizers said.

Held annually on the fourth Wednesday in September since 1991, See You at the Pole grew from a DiscipleNow weekend in Burleson, Texas, in early1990. Compelled to pray, a small group of teenagers drove to three area schools, stood under flagpoles and prayed for schools, leaders and friends.

Word of the Burleson event spread, drawing 45,000 students in prayer under flagpoles in four states in September 1990, and a million at school flagpoles in September 1991, according to event promoters. Today, events are held in Canada, Korea, Japan, Turkey, the Ivory Coast and beyond, with students “responding to God and taking seriously the challenge to pray,” promoters said.

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Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris told an interviewer Tuesday (Sept. 24) that she would be in favor of eliminating the filibuster for votes on abortion-related legislation in the Senate. That, in essence, would clear the way for abortion legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority rather than the 60 votes needed to overturn a filibuster.

Harris has made abortion a centerpiece of her campaign, pledging to sign any bill that “restore[s] reproductive freedom nationwide,” according to her website.

Ethics & Religious Liberty President Brent Leatherwood said it appears such abortion extremism is a hard sell for many Americans.

“I’ve often found that calls to end the filibuster are the result of an inability to win consensus on an issue. It means you are losing,” Leatherwood told Baptist Press in written comments. 

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Southwestern Seminary professor Malcolm Yarnell says, “Christians ought to have a leavening influence on their society.” “But when we forget our primary allegiance to Jesus Christ [in favor of] political parties, movements or leaders, we begin to run into trouble.”

An average of Gallup polls in 2023 found that 68 percent of Americans identified with the Christian religion. However, that reflected a consistent drop from the high point of 96 percent in 1956.

Christians are being educated by something, he added. That can be the culture, social media, mainstream media or the church. All have a way of affecting our worldview to some degree. 

Yarnell spoke of C. Gardner Taylor, a preacher and contemporary of Martin Luther King Jr. Very concerned with social issues, Taylor’s wife would at times comment on her husband’s sermon “thickness.”

“Sometimes she would tell him that his sermon was a bit ‘thin’ to let him know he was getting too much into political and social issues,” Yarnell said. “Those issues need to be addressed, but if it was his primary proclamation, it was robbing from the emphasis on the Gospel.”

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Feeling overwhelmed? Tennessee pastor Abraham Creemens encourages you to look to Jesus.

“The first step on this journey of hope is to recognize that there is only one Savior, and it is not you. It is not me, or your pastor or the most spiritual person in the world. It is Jesus. We turned the world upside down and Jesus turned it right-side-up. Paul explained this in 2 Corinthians 5:21: He made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. “

Creemens says when life is too much, you can look to the empty tomb where Jesus overcame the grave.

“See the beauty of the resurrection. Jesus died a real death. But the grave was not strong enough. The invitation is to lean into the person, purpose and promises of God every day and lay your concerns at the entrance of the empty tomb.”

Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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More than 2 billion people are facing food insecurity. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Zach Morrison, in his seventh year as head coach, described what happened after players arrived at the school in early August for preseason training and conditioning camp. “We took them to a couple of local churches,” he said, “and about 150 players visited Life Church.”

That Sunday, Morrison recalled, Life Church Pastor Jason Stockton preached and closed with an invitation. Team chaplain Topher Stockton (no relation) said 48 players followed Christ that morning.

Morrison says local pastors have been meeting with the players talked through what their decisions meant, and what baptism is and is not. 

Coach Morrison said in addition to helping the players learn the playbook, he’s making sure these new believers learn the first step in being disciples of Jesus.

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There is a sense of loss when people leave a church. There are also times when that loss is coupled with celebration.

Christ Fellowship Church Cherrydale, South Carolina began 15 years ago, sent out by another young church, Crosspoint in Clemson, S.C. As church planter in residence at Crosspoint, Matt Rogers learned about looking at the bigger picture and serving in a ministry that remains small even though it is in consistent growth.

Christ Fellowship, with attendance of 500-600 each Sunday, is currently in the middle of showing what that looks like.

Five families have recently pledged to go overseas and help start new churches, with two of them already on the field. Another will have their last Sunday this weekend. The final two will be gone by the end of the year.

Rogers says the families will be missed, but the sorrow is worth the pain to carry the Gospel forward.

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The world’s great problem is lostness. Learn how to share hope at IMB.org.

Lifeway Research found around 2 in 3 pastors (64 percent) say a family member of someone in their congregation has been affected by opioid abuse. Around half (51 percent) say a local neighbor they know or a member of their congregation is dealing with opioids, while 45 percent say a member of their congregation has been personally affected by opioid abuse.

Most pastors say their church is currently serving people with opioid addictions, but that support is primarily spiritual. Almost 3 in 4 (72 percent) offer spiritual support including prayer or discipleship. Fewer say they’re providing physical support including food, shelter or clothing (41 percent) or a 12-step program or other support groups for substance abuse (32 percent). 

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How do you get through the mundane seasons and tasks of life? In a Baptist Press Toolbox, Jacki C. King writes, “Many of us find ourselves in long seasons of mundane tasks and routine responsibilities. There are parts to our jobs and ministries that don’t feel particularly fulfilling or productive. Whether it’s printing handouts, putting in attendance, or setting up and taking down events, these tasks can often feel monotonous and unrewarding.

While these mundane tasks may not be glamorous or exciting, they are essential for the health and growth of our ministries. Everyone, from the most seasoned leader to the newest volunteer, has to deal with these less-than-glamorous aspects of their work. It’s how we respond to these seasons that matters.

• Find joy in the small things: Look for opportunities to praise God in the midst of everyday tasks. 
• Seek God’s graces: God is showing up in big and small ways. Keep a journal or list of how you see Him working. 
• Mix it up: If you hate doing a mundane task, make sure you schedule in between things that fuel you. How you schedule your tasks can play a huge role in working through your day.

More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everyday. You can help. Learn how at IMB.org.

Tensions rose in the city after the Republican presidential ticket spread claims on social media and during the presidential debate that immigrants in Springfield were eating people’s pets. Bomb threats forced the closure of city buildings, schools and hospitals, and made the city the subject of national and international news for a week or more.

Kenny Felix, president of Southern Baptist Convention National Haitian Fellowship and a leader from the Christian Leadership Coalition recently joined with local pastors, elected officials and community leaders to see how they could help.

The National Haitian Fellowship has around 500 partnering churches across the U.S.

About five Haitian churches serve the migrants in the area.

The pastors met with the Springfield Mayor Rob Rue to learn how they could help ease tensions.

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Days after an unnamed tropical storm-like system dumped historic rainfall across the Cape Fear region of southeastern North Carolina, disaster response volunteers with N.C. Baptists on Mission are assisting those impacted by the storm.

As the region continues to grapple with flooding and other storm-related damage, Baptists on Mission has opened two disaster recovery sites at Beach Road Baptist Church in Southport and First Baptist Church in Leland, where approximately 100 volunteers are expected to serve. 

According to Tom Beam, disaster response coordinator for Baptists on Mission, volunteers have faced obstacles as flooding has forced road closures throughout the area. Beam said that in spite of setbacks and detours, assessments and recovery assignments are already underway.

As much as 12 to 20 inches of rain fell across the region in just two days, with much of it coming during a 12-hour window between 5 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday, weather officials said. Rainfall in excess of 12 inches in a 12-hour period is expected to occur once every 200 years across coastal southeastern North Carolina, officials said.

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Medical professionals can use their skills to bring more than physical healing. Learn how at IMB.org.

This week, Lifeway President Ben Mandrell presented $678,283.32 to the International Mission Board and the North American Mission Board. That’s right students across America gave more than $678-thousand to missions.

Lifeway camps have been around for 40 years…and the total missions offerings have exceeded $17 million.

Lifeway camps give students the opportunity to hear stories of faithful missionaries and God’s work around the globe and you can tell these stories are well received by the campers.

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Speaking of missions… MedAdvance has drawn health care professionals across the country since 2007. Doctors, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, pharmacists, fitness instructors, community health workers, other specialists and non-medical attendees gather at the annual event to hear how the IMB is using global health care strategies to reach the lost all over the world.

At a conference earlier this September, a doctor who worked with NASA attended to see how she can have an impact on the mission field. A retired hospital administrator attended previous events and came to Houston to reconnect with IMB friends, offering encouragement and prayer.

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Kentucky pastor Todd Gray wonders what drives you to pray. In a piece in Baptist Press he writes that family members who don’t know Jesus motivate him to pray.

“There are few things more concerning than the awareness that a member of one’s immediate family has rejected the gospel and is living their life in danger of hell. The reality of their spiritually dangerous position must prompt us to passionate prayer as we ask God to bring conviction into their heart and faithful witnesses across their path.”

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how to share the light at IMB.org.

Some of the priorities highlighted by the ERLC in the letter include pro-life issues, religious liberty concerns and opposing taxpayer funding for harmful “gender transition” surgeries.

“As a nation, our values and priorities are most clearly displayed through the allocation of our resources,” ERLC President Brent Leatherwood said in the letter. “It is our desire for those resources to be used in a way that promotes life, religious liberty and the flourishing of all our neighbors. It is in light of these core principles that we highlight the areas of concern and support below.”

Draft text for nearly all 12 appropriations bills has been released in both chambers, and the bills have passed through both the House and Senate appropriations committees. The deadline for the government to pass the required 12 appropriations bills for the 2025 fiscal year is Sept. 30, but Congress is expected to pass a continuing resolution to extend that deadline at the current funding levels.

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While the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the most widely used measure of inflation, grew 6 percent from June 2022 to June 2024, both the average compensation and pay package for full-time senior pastors climbed more than 13 percent, while staff ministers’ grew more than 7 percent and office personnel’s increased by at least 10 percent.

“The upward movement in full-time pastor salaries does not make up all the financial ground they lost between 2018 and 2022,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. “Many pastors financially ‘took one for the team’ during the pandemic, and it is encouraging to see many churches responding to begin to close this gap.”

For senior pastors, compensation, which includes salary and housing, grew 16.6 percent in the past two years, and pay package, which includes salary, housing, retirement and insurance, climbed 13.9 percent.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everday. You can help. Learn how at IMB.org.

“Cling tenaciously to a biblical worldview, and don’t be manipulated,” he said. “Pray for God to give us wise and discerning leaders. Trust that God is sovereign and that Christ’s kingdom is not of this world.”

Texas ethicist Dan Darling encouraged church leaders to keep a healthy perspective during a contentious campaign season.

“Pastors have an opportunity in this election to help their people steward their citizenship well by weighing the issues, voting, and conducting themselves in a way that honors Christ,” Darling, public policy professor at Southwestern Seminary said. 

“Even though the partisanship of the election can be wearying, American Christians should be thankful for the opportunity to influence policy, both local, state, and national. This is a privilege many millions of people around the world only wish they had. We can do that while also remembering that our ultimate citizenship is in Heaven.”

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A recent State of the Bible study revealed Gen Z is the least likely to turn to the faith community and medical professionals for help navigating mental health issues, researchers found. Instead, Gen Z is more apt to turn to a trusted family member or social media for help, although only 15 percent of Gen Z would turn to social media platforms for help.

Regarding fears, financial stress or hardship strikes extreme fear in 31 percent of Gen Z, compared to 21 percent of Gen X, 20 percent of Millennials and 12 percent of Boomers.

Grief and loss? Thirty-one percent of Gen Z are extremely fearful, outpacing 21 percent of Millennials, 19 percent of Gen X and 14 percent of Boomers. Extreme fear of family stress or trauma befalls 29 percent of Gen Z, 20 percent of Millennials, 19 percent of Gen X and 10 percent of Boomers.

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Lostness is the world’s greatest problem. Learn you can help at IMB.org.

Disaster Relief workers from at least Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas are working in Louisiana. Feeding teams, chainsaw teams and chaplains are work.

Thousands of meals are being served as people pick up from the heavy winds and rains.

You can learn how to affect those affected by visiting SendRelief.org.

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Generation Z, the first to grow up with smartphones and tablets, is the most fearful and anxious of any age, the American Bible Society (ABS) said in its latest release from the 2024 State of the Bible.

But regular Bible engagement, a practice that attracts only 11 percent of Gen Z, reduces anxiety by half and can improve other markers of emotional health, study authors said in releasing chapter six of the study Sept. 12.

Scripture engaged Gen Z can score just as well as any other group on several measures of emotional health, but the group ranks lowest in Scripture engagement among all generations. As such, all findings regarding Bible engaged Gen Z members are from a comparatively small cohort, study authors said.

Extreme fears of grief and loss, family stress or trauma, and financial stress or hardship are chief among their concerns, cited among nearly a third of Gen Z respondents, followed by moderate levels of fears of those matters among 45 percent of Gen Z, study authors said.

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Sometimes hardships are caused by holy circumstances and sometimes they are the result of less than circumstance.

A Lifeway Bible Study points to Paul’s preaching in the first century and the Bible’s written word that has lasted over the centuries.

In Acts 14, Paul challenged the people to turn from “worthless things to the living God” (v. 15). He noted that only the one, true God created everything and as such, was worthy of worship.

There are times in our lives when we should take an inventory to see if we’re prioritizing things that would honor God. Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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More than 2 billion face food insecurity. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Diaspora refers to “the movement, migration, settlement or scattering of people away from one’s indigenous homeland.” In North America, diaspora people comprise immigrants, refugees and international students.

Christians’ outreach to internationals in Charleston is a great example of what Diaspora Missions Collective wants to accomplish in reaching all nations, people, languages and tribes with the Gospel, no matter where they live.

With help from The Hub Ministry Center, Charleston has become a modern day “Ellis Island” for refugees coming from Africa, the Middle East and Central and South America.

The center provides refugees with transitional assistance and care in transportation, education, recreation and vocational training. It also provides relational care through community and compassion. 

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Visiting a friend outside his hometown of Gloucester, England, in the late 1700s, Robert Raikes encountered children cursing, gambling and fighting in the streets. He was horrified, but a local woman told him it was even worse on Sundays, the children’s one day off each week from the factory. Determined to help children in that situation learn to read and learn about the God who loved them, Raikes founded the first Sunday School in 1780.

According to a Lifeway Research study of U.S. Protestant churches with ongoing adult Bible study groups, 56 percent say the label “Sunday School” describes at least part of their groups ministry. Almost 3 in 4 (72 percent) say they are comfortable with others referring to their groups as adult Bible studies. Around 2 in 5 (39 percent) say small groups. Fewer say the terms adult Bible fellowships (13 percent), life groups (13 percent) or connect groups (10 percent) fit their ministry.

“If a group learns and obeys God’s Word, invites others to follow Jesus, forms deeper relationships and engages in acts of service inside the church and out in the community, you can call a group ministry whatever you like,” says Lifeway’s Ken Braddy.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Disaster Relief workers huddled in areas hours away from the gulf to see how they could help one the storm came ashore. When first responders give them the greenlight, they’ll work quickly to help those in need.

The storm is forecasted to drift up the Mississippi River through the weekend bringing heavy rains.

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A somber sight in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. on Wednesday as Americans marked the 23rd anniversary of 9/11. Thousands of lives were lost as a group of terrorists pulled off the deadliest attack on in American soil.

The day was marked by the annual reading of victims at Ground Zero by family members whose lives were changed forever.

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What drives you to your knees to pray? Kentucky church leader Todd Gray offers some thoughts in the Baptist Press Toolbox.

Gray writes about a wayward child, significant health issues, an empty church building, church conflict and more in the piece.

He writes, “Any Christian parent with a child living outside the will of God knows the experience of praying for that child day after day and throughout the day. Many Christian couples have had the experience of praying for a child through a particularly challenging time. The great news for us is that our children are not static, meaning that where they are today spiritually may not be where they are six months from now, and our prayers can make a difference in their lives. “

Gray also says times of spiritual warfare should drives us to our knees. “There have been a few times in my life in Christian ministry leadership that could not be explained apart from spiritual warfare. Those were times when I not only prayed for myself, but I asked my wife to pray with me and for me. When you feel that you are under spiritual attack, the best thing to do is get on your knees, if you are able to, and cry out to God to deliver you from the attack of the evil one.”

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Lostness is the world’s greatest problem. Learn how you can share the light at IMB.org.

Americans instinctively went to churches in their communities and neighborhoods for prayer gatherings in the middle of the day. People met in their city square to grieve, encourage one another and pray for each other. At a time of great uncertainty and sadness, people wanted to be together as they looked for answers and hope.

It’s been 23 years since that day in 2001. Even as we remember, may we never forget that our hope only comes from God above.

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“Pray for the transformation of our nation,” Ukrainian Baptist Theological Seminary President Yaroslav “Slavik” Pyzh implored a group of Christian ethics leaders in Nashville, Tennessee on Tuesday.

The seminary leader told the group that although Ukraine’s population is not precisely known, the number of Protestant believers has doubled since Russia launched its latest attack on Ukraine in February 2022, Pyzh said. Hope has countered the death and hopelessness the war has wrought.

However, he predicted that a Russian victory would mean the end of Christianity as it is now known in the country.

Despite the war, the seminary president said more than 700 new students have started classes to help the church as she grows during wartime.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help IMB.org.

That information impacts everything from attaining goods for ministries like food pantries to hiring new staff. Inflation sits in the middle of it all and while it remains high, the rate is decreasing.

In addition, wage increases can also impact a church’s ability to hire support staff. When your local fast food restaurant  and other places raise their wages, churches must follow suit to attract candidates for custodial services or setup teams. That can lead to a ripple effect of rising pay for roles such as ministry assistants to keep pace. 

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Don Hannel thought he was going to be the pastor of Pleasant Hill Church in Illinois the rest of his life. He’d been there 19 years. 

But when his wife was hired as principal of Brown County Elementary School, about 50 minutes away, they began to learn about a new part of their region.

That led Don to investigate what church life was like there. God used what he learned to change his ministry post. Don discovered a need, then started a Bible study and it wasn’t long before a new New Vision Community Church was planted and he became the pastor.

“I had a kind of a holy discontent of beginning to feel like maybe God was doing something different in my life, as well,” he said. “It was a hard decision in my heart, because I know a piece of my heart is always going to be in Pleasant Hill at the church. But God began to transplant my heart for the people of Brown County. And that’s when we knew that God was calling us to start a work right there.”

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Church leader Chuck Lawless encourages us to be patient with one another. In a piece at Baptist Press he offers seven reasons. Here’s a couple:

First, Jesus was patient with His disciples. This is a model for us.

Second, people are often dealing with stresses they haven’t shared with you.

Read the full piece from Lawless at Baptist Press.

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You can use your medical training for more than physical healing. Learn how at IMB.org.

The partnership will produce five sets of volumes containing sermons preached by Charles Spurgeon in his church and originally published from 1855 to 1917. The first set was released in August 2024.

Seminary President Jason Allen says he’s thrilled about the new partnership as he reflects on how Spurgeon’s writings were helping him during his call to ministry and early years of serving as a pastor.

In 1855, while pastoring the New Park Street Chapel in London, Spurgeon began selecting one of his sermons each week to edit and print in a weekly pamphlet. He continued this practice throughout his ministry at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London.

The first boxed set of sermons is available now.

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Tim Steele feels at home in front of people. He knows about the subtleties of communication such as timing, knowing your audience and being aware of your surroundings.

Those qualities have benefitted him from stages both as a comedian and pastor. From one, the audience is expecting him to make them laugh. The other comes with a much heavier weight because eternity hangs in the balance. Humor is important in both, Steele has learned.

Steele is a comedian with a brand new special at Dry Bar Comedy. He’s also the pastor of Cross Waves Church in Roseville, Michigan.

Steele says he doesn’t tell jokes from the preaching pulpit but definitely his ability to connect with an audience on both platforms.

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A Lifeway Bible Study call you to look up…and when you do…look for the beauty of the Heavens and the Earth and remember the One who created it.

Psalm 8 speaks of how God has created the world with strength and power but has been mindful of us…small as we may be.

David says the creation not only reminds us of the strength of God but also His attention to every aspect of the creation and that includes us. Read the full Bible study at our website Baptist Press.com.

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God is moving among the nations. Get the details at IMB.org.

Four people were killed by the 14 year old gunman.

Bethlehem Church sits three miles from the shooting and has numerous members connected to Apalachee High including students, teachers and coaches.

Pastor Jason Britt confirmed with Baptist Press that there were members harmed in the shooting but could not provide any further information. Many churches held a night of prayer on Wednesday and offered counseling services.

Barrow County School System Superintendent Dallas LeDuff said schools would be closed for the week. The system’s central office is offering resources for counseling.

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The U.S. Supreme Court refused to restore a $4.5 million family planning grant to Oklahoma while the state’s challenge to the termination of the grant works its way through the lower courts.

At issue is a lawsuit that stems from funding Oklahoma routinely received before the passage of its abortion ban in 2022, which followed the overturning of Roe v. Wade. To receive the funding under Title X of the Public Health Services Act of 1970, states are required to offer expectant mothers counseling for prenatal care, adoption and abortion, as well as referrals for abortion and adoption if requested.

Oklahoma’s abortion ban also makes it illegal to advise mothers to obtain abortions, and the new ban caused the federal government to cut the state’s family planning grant. Oklahoma sued in federal court, lost in the lower court, asked the High Court to issue an injunction

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Tennessee church leader Rodney Norvell says campus ministries are important:

Number one is discipleship and spiritual growth. 

Number two is missional training. 

Number three they connect students to the local church.

Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Retirement was good. He picked up a hobby as he bought a classic car and began entering it in car show competitions. It was a 1938 Ford Coupe, and Denman kept it shining as he showed it off in car shows.

He also began going on his church’s annual mission trips for 16 consecutive years. In 2002, 2004 and 2005 he went to Nicaragua with “Project Hope” to build homes. His wife Mary began joining him on these mission trips.

He said it was then that God started guiding him to take a fresh look at his classic car.

Not long after, at a car show a man asked Denman if he had a 1938 Ford Coupe. He said he did, and the man came over to his house to look at it. Denman sold it to him for $25,000.

He then went to an equipment dealer and asked about buying a skid steer. There was one for sale with an extra bucket and some other accessories. The price? $25,000. Denman wrote a check.

He’s now gone on more than 90 mission trips doing disaster relief and helping build churches, rebuild storm-damaged homes and the like.

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The Kendricks’ Brothers’ movie The Forge continues to hold strong at the box office. Just 12 days after its release, the movie has brought in more than $16 million in tickets sales. It’s consistently stayed in the top five movies ticket buyers are going to see at the theatre.

The movie filmed in the Kendrick’s brother’s hometown of Albany, Georgia is the first movie they’ve made there since Courageous.

The Forge is the story of a young business man who takes an interest in struggling teenagers and helps him grow as a follower of Jesus.

Church and pastors and have commented on social media about how the movie has been beneficial in sharing the Gospel and stirring up discipleship conversations.

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Texas church leader Dusty Thompson offers an encouraging word about the younger generation, “If you are at a place in your church life where you are trying to reach families and younger people in your community, the young people in your church will be your greatest asset to reach their peers. Call them to it and help them develop the character and competencies to not only share their faith and invite friends to church, but make disciples and grow as leaders.”

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Lostness is the world’s greatest problem. Learn how to share the light at IMB.com.

Cholera and heavy rains exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, according to international governmental agencies.

Jason Cox, Send Relief’s vice president of international ministry, said the war is not getting enough attention in the U.S., even as Send Relief continues to send aid.

“This war has created what is now the largest population of forcibly displaced people in the world. The humanitarian needs are overwhelming, and growing. But the opportunities are also great,” Cox told Baptist Press. 

Famine has affected nearly 4 million refugees since 2023.

Learn how you can help at Send Relief.org.

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According to the 2022 Greatest Needs of Pastors study, more than 3 in 4 pastors (77%) say developing leaders and volunteers and fostering connections with unchurched people (76%) are ministry needs they face. 

Scott McConnell, director of Lifeway Research, noted that “Motivating a congregation to function as one unit in sharing the love of Jesus with others” is the key.

According to Lifeway’s Ken Braddy, the frist way to connect with the unchurched is often through the weekly worship service. The second best way to help people share their faith is through groups.

Building relationships with unchurched people requires proximity to them. And when they receive an invitation to attend an ongoing Bible study group, smaller groups tend to be the best places for them to meet believers as they assimilate into the church, Braddy writes in Baptist Press.

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More than 2.3 billion people face food insecurity every day. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Spann can be seen every weekday in the Birmingham area and heard on radio across the United States.

Though he’s thankful he’s able to work a job he loves, he says he’s had to learn that one’s career is not all there is to life. He says he’s dealt with a season of life when he thought he was his number one priority but God has taught him otherwise.

Accoring to the Alabama Baptist, he says serving in the children’s ministry of his local church was one tool God used to change his heart.

He also points to his ministry in a local hospital.

Spann’s 19-year role as chair of the board of Baptist Medical Center Montclair, which moved and eventually became known as Grandview Medical Center, was something he never planned to do, but he knows God led him there.

It started by being asked to serve on the board for a couple of months. Since one of his jobs in life is to “mitigate loss of life during tornadoes,” he decided he could use the time to learn about trauma from the emergency room doctors. 

Spann says he spends several nights a week visiting hospital patients in between newscasts and, he says, he brings them better news than whether it’s going to rain tomorrow.

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The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission is urging Congress to avoid the inclusion of funding for so called “gender transitions” in the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The act establishes policies, restrictions and other administration matters relating to the DOD.

The ERLC is also asking the agency to ensure that selective service is not expanded to include women.

The ethics group is also requesting that tax-payer dollars not be used to pay for abortion-related travel.

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If you’re a medical professional, you can use your skills to do more than provide physical healing. Learn more at IMB.org.

According to the museum, “… by 1894, 23 states had adopted the holiday, just over half the states in the Union at that time. Early that year, Congress passed an act making Labor Day a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. A few months later, on June 28, President Grover Cleveland signed the holiday into law in the hope it might repair ties with American workers. All this happened because of the upheaval in the workplace.”

The Bible has much to say about labor.

Beginning in Genesis 1:26 where it says, “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, the whole earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.” 

And, in 2 Thessalonians 3: “In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.” 11 For we hear that there are some among you who are idle. They are not busy but busybodies. 12 Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and provide for themselves. 13 But as for you, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary in doing good. -- 2 Thessalonians 3:10-13 (CSB)

And, Ephesians 6:6 calls on workers to avoid working “ only while being watched, as people-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing God’s will from your heart. 7 Serve with a good attitude, as to the Lord.”

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Enjoy the day…whether you’re off of work or not and remember Colossians 3:10 Paul says that whatever we do should be done for the glory of God.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Missouri Attorney General John Ashcroft, a pro-life Republican, violated state and constitutional law by not listing with the ballot initiative the laws it would repeal, and by certifying a ballot initiative that covers more than one subject, Thomas More Society Senior Counsel Mary Catherine Martin told Baptist Press.

As preborn life is increasingly challenged by state ballot initiatives, Martin said the national law firm is looking at ballot initiatives in other states to check their alignment with state laws. Currently, initiatives are on the ballots in nine other states.

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A new Taliban law restricting the rights of women even further has led to calls for prayer from Arabic church leaders as well as Afghans who have fled in recent years.

“These women are victims,” said Raid Al Safadi, pastor of Arabic Baptist Church of San Antonio, Texas. “Islamic law and Sharia law deal with them as slaves, something that is owned and not as a human being.”

The “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice” was adopted last week in Afghanistan. Among other things, it mandates women wear clothing that covers their entire bodies, including their faces. It also bans their voices being heard in public and adds more restrictions to moving about without being accompanied by a male relative. 

Al Safadi encourages believers to pray for the Afghanis and ask God to work despite the Taliban to “establish His kingdom in Afghanistan for His people.”

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Union University professor Ray Van Neste writes, “When our youngest, Timothy, was 4 years old he often eagerly asked to say the blessing. His prayers developed, of course, moving first from unintelligible to intelligible and then adding and substituting topics. At one point a new item began appearing in his prayers. He began, in his list of things for which he gave thanks, saying, “Thank you for tomorrow.”

This simple sentence led the professor to remembers, “For tomorrow is already promised to all those who are in Christ. This tomorrow may occur in this life or the next, but it is sure. And no matter what hardship tomorrow may bring, God is there. To give thanks for what God is yet to do is to act in faith.”

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how to share the light at IMB.org.

The students served through GenSend hosted by the North American Mission Board.

GenSend Summer affords college students an opportunity to explore the call to the mission field, and the program is designed to encourage participants to consider whether God might be calling them to the field. Overall, more than 35 percent of participants expressed a certain degree of likelihood that they would move back to their place of service after college.

The initiative’s director, Jon Chasteen, says their hopes is to raise up new church planters and church leaders through the experience.

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 It was around 4 p.m. on Sunday when Alan McElroy, pastor of White Cliff Church in Ketchikan, Alaska, had sat down with a cup of coffee at home. Then the power went out.

“I looked at the street and the power pole in front is just bent over and then whipped back like a fishing rod,” he said. 

McElroy stepped outside to see what was happening and learned there had a been a mudslide.

A deadly mudslide had occurred in the town of 8,000 that “critically damaged” four homes and led to the evacuation of approximately 60 other homes, the city of Ketchikan announced on Aug. 26.

The slide killed 42-year-old Ketchikan native Sean Griffin, a husband and father who worked on the city’s public works team. Griffin had been scheduled to be off that day, but heavy rains required additional help in clearing stormwater drains. Three people were injured and hospitalized after the landslide, said public information officer Kacie Paxton.

The church played host and hub for rescue efforts as first responders and local volunteers began searching for people.

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Pat and Charles White teach a kindergarten Sunday School class at First Church in Tyler, Texas. Sounds challenging but what’s the big deal? This school year marks the 50th year the couple has taught the class. They say it’s their love for the children and for them to know God’s love that keeps them going strong.

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More than 2 billion people face food insecurity. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

The Forge features Cameron Arnett from previous Kendrick film “Overcomer” in a leading role as Joshua, a business owner who goes out of his way to disciple into Christian manhood Isaiah, played by Aspen Kennedy. The newcomer portrays the shiftless teenage son of Cynthia, one of two twin sisters portrayed by Priscilla Shirer, adding to her role of Elizabeth from “War Room,” the brothers’ 2015 release.

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When Troy Gause sat in the small, one-person suicide watch cell – with no windows or light from the outside world – at Plaquemines Parish Detention Center, he never could have imagined one day being a pastor of a thriving church.

While the distance between Plaquemines Parish Detention Center and Cross Community Church in suburban New Orleans is only about 60 miles, it can seem like so much more.

For Gause, it took a U-turn to get there. That U-turn didn’t just change his life; it defined the Gospel work that became the hallmark of his ministry as a Louisiana pastor.

During its 2024 Replant Summit, the North American Mission Board (NAMB) recognized his ministry by naming Gause “Replanter of the Year.”

Although Gause wasn’t suicidal when he entered that cell, the extended isolation and harsh conditions eventually wore him down. The trauma from the events leading to his imprisonment for drug possession had left him partially paralyzed, pushing him to his breaking point.

In that cell, Gause began a profound conversation with God that would forever change his life and the lives of lost people throughout greater New Orleans. Though saved as a teenager, he had drifted far from his faith. Now, Gause cried out to the Lord, recounting everything he’d tried for fulfillment only to hear God say, “You haven’t tried me.”

That’s when Gause responded: “God, here you go. Take this broken life.” And in that cell, he promised to never again turn away from Him.

Gause kept that promise. While working on a search and rescue team following Hurricane Katrina, he met a strong believer named Lawrence Jacques, who discipled him. A street evangelist, Jacques took him under his wing and introduced him to sharing Jesus on the streets of the Big Easy, where Gause met person after person who needed the U-turn he had found.

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More than 2.3 billion face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help IMB.org.

Casper led the association to sell its office building in Bridgeton a few years ago. Those funds are being rerouted into ministry, especially efforts to bolster church planting.

The director said when he came on board five years ago, he wasn’t looking for a centralized organization to manage. He preferred to have his staff work remotely from their homes and be mobile and accessible to the churches and leaders in the metro area.

The association’s mission statement says it is all about “Connecting churches to develop leaders and deploy them for mission because lostness is the greatest problem in our city.”

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The last Protestants in an indigenous Mexican community where Catholicism is the only religion allowed were forced from their homes Aug. 6, their lone church set ablaze, CSW reported Aug. 22 ahead of Protestant protests in the street.

Members of the Protestant Interdenominational Christian Church (ICIAR) and their supporters were expected to protest in the main square of Mexico City and in the city of Oaxaca Aug. 22, CSW said, calling out serious religious freedom violations in the community of San Isidro Arenal in San Juan Lalana Municipality, Oaxaca State.

The persecution of Protestants in indigenous Catholic communities stems from a 1993 community accord mandating Roman Catholicism as the only religion permitted in San Isidro Arenal, a system allowed under the Law on Uses and Customs. However, religious freedom is guaranteed in Mexico’s constitution.

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A Lifeway Bible study asks, What will be our jobs in Heaven?

California pastor Greg Laurie says, “God has more for us to do in His heaven. What we do now prepares us for that work. Pointing to Luke 12:44, Laurie explains while we are not sure what kind of work will be waiting for us will be meaningful.

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The world’s great problem is lostness. Learn how you can share the Light at IMB.org.

Schrage, who lives in Jefferson City, Missouri, starts with a Bible passage written on a canvas. Then she begins to sketch out her design as she continues to pray through the passage. As she paints, the passage is usually covered as she completes the work of art – which typically resembles something that has come to mind as she prayed through the passage.

Schrage says she hopes to open a brick-and-mortar art gallery one day but for now, will continue to shine light through her art wherever doors open.

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Not only are churchgoers watching Christian movies, but some find them useful as an evangelistic and discipleship tool.

A recent study by Lifeway Research finds 68 percent of American Protestant churchgoers have watched a Christian movie in the last year. Around 4 in 5 (81 percent) say Christian movies are effective evangelism tools.

“We live in a visual, video-driven generation. Movies can be great tools to reach people where they are and share biblical truth in the context of an emotional and memorable story,” said movie maker Stephen Kendrick.

The Kendrick Brothers latest release – The Forge – opens in box offices nationwide Aug. 23.

The study found more than 1 in 10 churchgoers have invited a non-Christian to watch a Christian movie with them in the last year. Churchgoers aged 18 -49 are most likely to say they’ve offered the invitation to a non-believing friend.

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Wars in Eastern Europe and the Middle East have destabilized entire regions. Extreme weather conditions have upset crop yields in Africa. Economic instability has raised operational costs for farmers around the world.

These and many other challenges have left tens of millions of people around the world staring down the barrel of food shortages.

Send Relief is leading efforts for Global Hunger Sunday on Aug. 25. It’s an initiative to combat hunger and share the Bread of Life.

Food insecurity affects the world – and that includes the United States – where more than 10 percent of the population deals with it daily according to the Center for Nutritional Impact.

Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

The history dates back to 1951, when missionaries first went to the island nation. Medical work wasn’t far behind, and it soon became a key strategy for Gospel access.

Today, the medical facilities are led by Indonesian medical professionals who are committed to the Gospel and the vision to use health care to make the Gospel known to all nations. 

IMB missionary Jacob Stanley says, “More than 60 churches, still in existence today, can trace their roots to the evangelistic work” of the hospital.

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There are different ways Christians can help refugees adjust to America, but they all tend to revolve around the subject of availability.

“We’re needing people willing to do life with refugee families,” said Jason Lee, Mission/Go pastor at Clarkston International Bible Church.

When resettled refugees enter the U.S., various timetables begin, Lee said. They need to be enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program within ten days. The same goes for enrolling in employment services. Children are supposed to be enrolled in school within the first 30 days.

Lee also directs the Acts 17 Initiative to help those families settle and begin a new life. Launched in 2017, its goal is to educate, equip, engage and network with churches toward developing partnerships and strategies that assist immigrants and refugees.

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If the sanctity of human life is on your mind as approach November’s election, what should you do? A Baptist Press piece suggests:

First, pray. Ask God to open the eyes of our fellow Americans to recognize the value of human life and to move them to vote accordingly.

Vote. We must get to the polls during this election cycle. If your state has abortion on the ballot, get educated about it and vote accordingly.

Serve. Most likely, there is a pregnancy support center near you. Get involved. Give financially. 

Engage graciously. Look for resources that speak to the value of human life.

Live according to Colossians 4:5-6, “Act wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.” (CSB)
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If you’re a medical professional, you can use your skills for more than physical healing. Learn how at IMB.org.

The International Mission Board (IMB) and Wycliffe Bible Translators are among more than 95 organizations and churches collaborating globally to change the dismal statistic.

Eurasia, IMB and Wycliffe have collaborated with others to begin Bible story translations in more than 75 new sign languages, said Andy Keener, Wycliffe’s senior director of global partnerships.

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Send Relief crisis response experts and volunteers were already in Puerto Rico for a long-scheduled training session when Tropical Storm Ernesto rapidly developed into a storm that has caused widespread damage on the island.

The team’s quick pivot came as strong winds knocked out power for nearly three-quarters of a million people, nearly half of the island, along with 235,000 losing their access to water, according to multiple sources.

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Bitterness will consume you, if you don’t let it go, writes church leader Chuck Lawless.

He says he’s seen it many times over his years of ministry and it is heartbreaking.

What should you know about bitterness?

1. The enemy wants you to stay unforgiving so your prayers are hindered. Jesus’ words were clear here: “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven will also forgive you your wrongdoing” (Mark 11:25). Satan delights in anything that harms your own walk with God and halts your prayers. 
2. Your bitterness is sin. When you stay angry and unforgiving, you are living in disobedience. That sin has a way of becoming a foothold, and then a stronghold – even while you deceive yourself that your continual anger is just. 
3. Your stronghold of bitterness can quickly become an idol. If you choose to stay bitter when God demands a change of heart, you are choosing to serve your emotions over God’s command. You may not have a carved idol sitting on a shelf in your living room, but you’re just as much an idolater.  

He also says bitterness is hard to escape.

1. You carry the bitterness wherever you go. Even when you separate yourself from the person who’s offended you, the bitterness resides in you—and affects the rest of your life. 
2. Your bitterness affects every other relationship you have. Few of us are so intentional and strong that we can compartmentalize every relationship. Your bitterness affects all your relationships, even if only by others seeing your continual anger. 
3. Even stifled bitterness is still present in you. You may have pressed it down, but all someone needs to do is “push the right button” in you—and all that anger rises to the surface again. It’s still there, slowly eating a hole into your soul. 

He encourages people to turn to God, repent of their bitterness and seek forgiveness.

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If you’re a medical professional, you can use your skills to bring more than physical healing. Learn how at IMB.org.

The rule expands the definition of “sex” in Title IX’s language to include sexual orientation and gender identity. Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in any educational program or institution that receives federal funds.

Opponents of the new rule, including the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, argued that the rule would remove protections women have previously enjoyed from Title IX by allowing biological men to compete in women’s sports and by prohibiting sex-segregated spaces like bathrooms and locker rooms. 

“To threaten the loss of funding for a school’s refusal to acquiesce to the redefinition of sex and gender is the height of arrogance by the Department of Education,” said the ERLC’s Brent Leatherwood.

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The University of California at Los Angeles blocked Jewish students from portions of campus when protests erupted in response to the Israel-Hamas War, a district judge has ruled, citing their faith as the sole factor.

“Jewish students were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith,” U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi said. 

UCLA didn’t dispute the incident, Scarsi wrote in his injunction, but rather claimed no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of the plaintiffs because the exclusion was engineered by third-party protesters.

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Student ministry leaders Shane Pruitt has some questions for parents and church leaders as we start a new school year. Here’s one: 

“What would it look like this school year if we were so laser-focused on the Great Commission that we refused to be distracted or discouraged by ineffective busyness and unnecessary drama?”

Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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Medical providers are needed all over the world. Learn how you can use your skills to bring more than physical healing at IMB.org.

In at least two states, Nebraska and Pennsylvania, ballot initiatives to protect life are pending.

State ballot measures in Arizona and Missiouri would allow abortion to be restricted or banned after fetal viability, except to protect the life or health of the woman.

The initiative would also protect from prosecution providers of abortion.

Both states define fetal viability as the point when a health professional determines the child can survive outside the womb without extraordinary medical measures.

Arizona, Missouri, Florida, Colorado, South Dakota, New York, Maryland and Nevada also have ballot measures to allow voters to expand or establish abortion rights.

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For more than 1,700 college students and collegiate ministry leaders, last week marked a launching point for a school year full of Gospel conversations and ministry on campuses throughout North America and the world.

Southern Baptist students and their leaders from 23 states and regions in the United States and Canada gathered for training, worship and fellowship during Collegiate Week at Falls Creek Camp in Davis, Oklahoma, Aug. 4-8.

Leadership training went beyond simple skill development to provide a background for the challenges many will face as they head into a new school year and serve as leaders on their college campuses.

Dozens of the student volunteers indicated they felt called to some sort of vocational ministry following college.

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Is there life after death? Will I live on in a state of eternal bliss or in a state of eternal torment?  

An article at Baptist Press articulates how the Bible speaks to death and what happens next for the follower of Jesus and for the person who does not follow Jesus. Find that full piece in the Baptist Press Toolbox.

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More than 2.3 billion people face food insecurity everyday. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Kipko planted Forward Church in Irvine, Calif., through Send Network, the North American Mission Board’s (NAMB) church planting arm, and began connecting with Slavic pastors and ministry leaders throughout North America to point them to the resources Send Network utilizes to help churches plant churches.

Kipko connected with his local church planting catalysts and began networking with friends and ministry colleagues. He said there are approximately 70 Slavic churches or pastors who have expressed interest in starting new churches.

Kipko has been able to connect with leaders on the East Coast, Florida and the Northwest who have their sights set on church planting through Send Network.

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The site of the deadliest church shooting in the nation no longer stands, as First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs moved forward Aug. 12 with a 2021 decision to demolish its former sanctuary.

In November 2017, a gunman killed 25 and injured 20 others before killing himself.

Since 2019, the congregation has worshiped in a new facility funded by the North American Mission Board and others.

There were mixed emotions about the demolition as some believed the building was an important reminder of the tragedy. However, the church decided that they and the community would be best served by removing the building.

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Ever wonder why you’re struggling with the spiritual disciplines – prayer, Bible Study, confession, things like that? Chuck Lawless says it could be you’ve equated ministry activity with spiritual disciplines.  While serving is good it may not lead to communion with God.

He also says it may be a time management problem. People can be so busy, they just don’t set aside time to be alone with God.

Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how you can share the light at IMB.org.

While refugees’ initial days and months in America can be complex and filled with paperwork and immigration meetings, churches have learned that there are direct, simple ways to meet needs.

Not long after it began six years ago, Living Hope Church in Columbus was helping deliver donated furniture on behalf of a group of non-profit organizations. It became apparent that the items were going toward a growing migrant population consisting of those from the Middle East and Central America.

The need grew, and soon the church took it on as its own. 

Pastor Aaron Taylor it’s been good for the church. It’s helped them work through the question – if our church was gone, would the community miss us?

He says now they clearly know the answer to that question.

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Despite its obscure origins in a rented room in America’s largest city, Vacation Bible School (VBS) has become a widely familiar term in our culture, identifiable with both kids and parents as a fun way to learn about God’s Word.

Vacation Bible School traces its roots to New York City where in 1898 Virginia Hawes, concerned with the spiritual formation of school children, rented a beer hall in the city’s East Side to conduct an Everyday Bible School. Hawes envisioned a place where kids could safely spend their summer while learning about the Bible and receiving spiritual nourishment.

By 1921, Vacation Bible School had spread well into the South and was a strong program across many denominations.

In Hawes’s time, there was an awareness that kids were not learning about the Bible as much as they used to. And that seems even more true today. VBS has consistently been about assessing the needs of the culture and deciding what timeless truth about Jesus needs to be shared.

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1. Church leader Thom Rainer wants to you to rethink using a smartphone or tablet in church service. He writes, “Smartphones and tablets often distract the person looking at them. I see it every week. Rarely do I see church members looking at their smartphones without some kind of notification popping up. Of course, they can’t wait to read the notification.
2. Smartphones and tablets often distract others. I wish I were not one of those prone to distraction, but I am. When that light on someone’s phone catches my eye, I immediately turn to it.

Read the full piece in the Baptist Press Toolbox.

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With more than 2 billion people facing food insecurity, the need is great. Learn how to help at IMB.org.

“What is this place, this building?” the child asked. “It’s a museum,” his mother responded.

The pastor was inspired to set up an art show inside the church building during games. Many families visited the makeshift art gallery set up during the games.

Pastor Jason Harris said now the church is going to be busy following up with locals who were on the streets during the games and visited the art show.

He didn’t know how many prospects they may have but said this past Sunday as the Paris games concluded there were a number of visitors to the church’s Sunday service.

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For three days in July, the population of Sturgis, Kentucky soars from 1,650 to more than 10,000 people when the western Kentucky town hosts the Little Sturgis Bike Rally. 

Along with the motorcycle enthusiasts, ministry opportunities abound for churches and partners who look for creative ways to serve the guests to the city.

A ministry called Showers of Blessings provided showers to more than 400 bikers, said Barry Yates, associational mission strategist for the Ohio Valley Baptist Association (OVBC). They use a mobile unit to set up showers for bikers who camp during the event.

As you can imagine, it creates opportunities for all kinds of conversations, but the volunteers say their favorite ones are the ones about Jesus.

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If you ask someone at church to name their favorite story from the Old Testament, they may mention Moses or Noah, but they might also talk about Jesus or Paul.

“While churchgoers may open a Bible at church, at least 1 in 5 may not be familiar with how it’s organized and what distinguishes the New Testament from the Old Testament,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. Read the full Lifeway study at Baptist Press.

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More than two billion people struggle with food insecurity. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Holcomb says looking up reminds him of the majesty of God and how God is in control.

“It’s good to look at the sky and just be amazed,” he said. “When that debris from the comet hits the atmosphere, it’s protecting us by burning them up and creating fireballs across the sky. It reminds you of what a big world this is, but also the size of space.”

The meteor showers over American skies are coming to an end this week.

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Student ministry leader Shane Pruitt is encouraging church leaders to remain focused this school year. Pruitt encourages church to remain dependent on the Holy Spirit.

“Even more than seeking to be a numerically growing ministry this school year, seek to be a Spirit-led ministry. If you desire to be Spirit-led, everything else will fall into place. Leonard Ravenhill said, “Gifts and talents can build a crowd, but only the Holy Spirit can build the church.”

Pruitt encourages church to remain faithful to God’s Word.

“If you want to be a relevant ministry this school year, then preach the Bible. The Word of God is always relevant,” he says.

He also says this a great time so share your faith.

“Often, people will be open to the Gospel during changes in their lives. There is something about entering a new grade, going from middle school to high school, and going from high school to college that causes people to desire community, stability, and support. Students going through ever-changing seasons of life desperately need a never-changing God that provides eternal life,” Pruitt says.

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Cultural commentators in many sectors are now lamenting the combined impact of expressive individualism and technology on human behavior, particularly on the socialization of young men.

The gospel, the church, and the challenge/expectations of Christian service are antithetical to expressive individualism. The gospel centers on God (not you), the church is about others (not you), and God’s mission (serving others and sharing the gospel) is definitely not about you.

Read the full piece from Jeff Iorg at Baptist Press.

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Lostness is the world’s greatest problem. Learn how to share hope at IMB.org

Pastor Todd Wiggins of Southbridge Community Church was among those affected, as floodwaters crept into his home. 

“We were blessed, because there were people who lost their whole home,” he said. “Others had damage up to 4 feet high, so in the grand scope, it’s not too bad.”

Area rivers are being monitored as they continue to swell. Wiggins has heard stories from other parts of the county of rainfall as high as 18 inches in 48 hours.

Disaster relief crews continue to work in the south and up the east helping those affected by the flooding rains.

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Most U.S. adults believe human beings came about because of divine intervention, but there’s disagreement over what that involvement looked like.

A Gallup survey finds 37% of Americans believe God created human beings pretty much in their present form at one time within the last 10,000 years or so. Additionally, 34% say human beings developed over millions of years from less advanced forms of life but God guided this process.

While 71% see God as having an active part, 24% contend human beings have developed over millions of years from less advanced forms of life but God had no part in this process. Another 5% either say they aren’t sure or volunteer another answer.

The numbers have not changed significantly since 2019, but the percentage who believe in God’s direct creation of humans fell to its lowest point in the four-decade history of the survey. The previous low was 38% in 2017. Also, those who say God had no role in human origins reached its highest percentage since the survey began in 1982, up two percentage points from 22% in 2019.

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Chuck Lawless has two suggestions for getting the most out of our schedule:

1.     Do the things I don’t want to do first.  If I do them first, though, (a) I can do them when I have the most energy, and (b) I always have more exciting things to look forward to during the day. 

2.     In most cases, limit meetings to 30 minutes. You can accomplish a lot in that time if you’re focused and intentional. He says you can always allow more time if it’s really needed.

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But as they finished the Sunday School hour before the service, they heard an elderly woman with dementia had wandered off. When they finished the morning service, local first responders had set up a command center in the church’s parking lot.

The church decided to postpone their planned service project and join in the search for their neighbor. After a little more than two hours of searching in the woods members of the church found her standing in a creek at the bottom of a steep bank about a quarter of a mile from the church building.

Thankfully, she only had scratches and bruises. 

Sometimes being available to God doesn’t go the way you think it will.

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In her new book I Surrender All, Priscilla Shirer, says, surrender to Christ is “the crux of what the invitation to discipleship demands.” In the book she talks about the heaviness of the task but Shirer says this sacrifice is worth it because losing one’s life is the only way to find it.

“We’re afraid surrendering the whole of ourselves to Him, giving Him full access to our entire lives, will cause disruptions to our preferred way of living our lives,” she says.

Shirer makes the case that being a true disciple of Jesus means being will to truly allow the Jesus to be the Lord of your life.

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In a Lifeway Bible Study, Bartholomew Orr writes, “Too many people listen to others and change frequently to fit the status quo. They pursue the American dream and not God’s assigned destiny. They are coerced or influenced to follow in their parents’ footsteps, instead of seeking their heavenly Father’s plan for their life. Don’t feel pressured by those around you to be somebody you’re not. Be who God says you are.”

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With 2.3 billion people plagued by food insecurity, the fight against hunger has never been greater. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Rivers and lakes stand above flood stage from west Florida up into northeast Georgia and predictions of flooding continue through the Carolinas as what was Hurricane Debby makes its way north. At least six deaths are being blamed on the storm.

The storm is slowly churning up the East Coast dumping significant rainfall. The National Weather Service predicts the storm will still be a Tropical Depression as late as Saturday when it arrives in Maine.

Debby crossed the Florida panhandle over the weekend, trekking across the Southeast to Charleston, S.C., Wednesday before reversing course, coming back on land and turning north.

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A Chinese church in Paris is working to reach the more than 600-thousand Chinese who call Paris home. During the Olympics, they are joining with the IMB to pass out pins that not only celebrate the games but give hope. So far, they’ve given out more than 1,000 pins that lead the recipient to a website where they can hear the Good News.

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Maybe you aren’t a pastor, but Mark Dance wants to offer you an encouraging word about what you can value in your pastor.

He writes, “Good preaching won’t make up for bad pastoring. How we treat people offstage is more important than how you teach them onstage. Yes, even those members who are resisting all of your initiatives. Most church conflict is the result of slow, relational erosion, not any one issue.

“I believe gradual relationship erosion sneaks up on a lot of pastors, which is why so many are surprised when their sheep dig in their hooves in response to their vision and initiatives. r

“If you try to lead or feed them without loving them first, you may get bit—or worse—ignored.”

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With 2.3 billion people plagued by food insecurity, the fight against hunger has never been greater. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Tracy Dyson are astronauts who are currently working aboard the International Space Station.

Dyson’s tenure on the ISS runs through September. Wilmore is waiting to catch a ride home the Boeing module currently undergoing tests while docked to the floating science lab.

Through the marvels of technology, the pair were able to join their church on Sunday morning recently via video call. 

Both say they’re grateful their church family is lifting them up to the One who created the heavens and the Earth.

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A pastor’s resumé might include multiple churches and ministry roles, but most won’t have much non-ministry experience listed.

Most current U.S. Protestant senior pastors worked outside of ministry as adults for only a short time, according to a Lifeway Research study. Only 3 in 10, however, began vocational ministry as the senior pastor.

“A person’s journey to the pastorate can happen at almost any age, but the majority of pastors are in a ministry job by their early 30s,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. 

Most senior pastors didn’t step immediately into a lead pastor role as their first ministry position. Seven in 10 started somewhere else in the church. On average senior pastors two other ministry roles before their current position as a senior pastor.

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Jacki C. King says, “Leaders who embrace their humanity are better equipped to lead effectively. Acknowledging weaknesses and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Building a strong team and delegating responsibilities can also help alleviate the burden of leadership.

It’s also important for leaders to prioritize self-care. This includes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In an often isolating and high-stress role, confession, repentance, and community are still factors for the Christian life that we have to fight for.”

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With 2.3 billion people plagued by food insecurity, the fight against hunger has never been greater. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Damage will be assessed after its passage for a more comprehensive response, Disaster Relief leaders announced today.

Flood watches remain in effect through Tuesday across much of the southeast.

The National Weather Service says “potentially historic rainfall” will follow Debby as the storm moves with “considerable flooding” across areas of east-central Georgia, said the National Weather Service.

Charleston Southern University has moved all classes online until the end of the day Thursday.

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Though markets are uneasy, a financial analyst with GuideStone Financial Resources urges calm.

The confluence of high inflation, a weak labor report and the unwinding of a carry trade with roots in Japan has caused financial markets in the United State and around the world to shudder.

Last week’s poor jobs report caused concerns that consumers’ buying power will be limited in the months ahead. That, along with high inflation rates, caused U.S. financial markets to decline 1,000 points last week, and world markets reacted based on elevated concerns that the U.S. could be headed toward a recession.

As the markets adjust during an election year, Josh Chastant told Baptist Press, “I think that everyone can prepare for a little bit more volatility.”

“If you have a plan, stick with the plan and don't get rattled by individual day-to-day kind of price movements in the overall investment markets,” he said.

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Prayer and evangelism go hand in hand says Joe Allen, a professor at Midwestern Seminary. The two practices mutually reinforce one another and enhance the other spiritual disciplines. The dynamic happens like this: the more you pray, the more you attune your heart to God’s heart, and specifically, God’s heart for the lost, he says. Read his piece at Baptist Press that will help you grow as a disciple of Jesus.

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With 2.3 billion people plagued by food insecurity, the fight against hunger has never been greater. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

Jason Harris is leading a team of more than 300 short-term volunteers to hit the streets of Paris sharing the gospel.

He says they are united around a common vision to make Christ known among Europeans and a long-term goal to plant five churches in Paris over the next five years.

Harris explained that short-term volunteers are vital to sharing the Gospel broadly and making connections that will catalyze their local church-planting strategy and lead to longevity.

Each week of Olympics outreach, volunteers are focused on sharing the gospel within specific geographical and cultural segments of Paris. They are using a number of creative strategies as entry points for evangelism and have invited local French churches to work alongside them.  

“My prayer has been that the outreach for the Olympics would be a launching point for church planting in the city,” Harris said.

Ultimately, the harvest is in God’s hands. They have already witnessed God drawing people to Himself through volunteer efforts this summer.

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Park Street Church in Butte, Montana is trying to live out Acts 8:4. What is Acts 8:4?

The verse says, “Those who have been scattered preached the word wherever they went.”

Through the church’s ministry in the community and their very intention ministry to students at Montana Tech University, they are seeing God use them to reach their neighborhood and the nations.

Pastor Judson works to reach college students and many of them end up serving in some type of missions or ministry capacity all over the world.

The church isn’t large, but they are seeing God bless their faithfulness to His call to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ.

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If you’ve ever led a group of people, you know it’s a challenge. Much of the pressure comes from within. In that Baptist Press Toolbox, Jacki C. King offers tips on how you can grow as a leader and give yourself room to fail. Read the full piece at Baptist Press.

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With 2.3 billion people plagued by food insecurity, the fight against hunger has never been great. Learn how you can help at IMB.org.

A 2022 Lifeway Research study found 35% of Americans believe human life begins at conception. 

Jason Thacker, a Christian ethicist, says decisions concerning IVF can be challenging.

“Navigating the deep pains and realities of infertility can be quite daunting and overwhelming,” Thacker told Lifeway Research. “While the desire for children is both good and godly, we must think deeply about the ethical complexities of artificial reproductive technologies. This is especially true with the routine practice of IVF as it relates to both the sanctity of life. Just because we can do something doesn’t mean we should.”

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Stephen Silver was married 51 years before his wife died suddenly and unexpectantly. In his new book Grief Redeemed, he shares his grief journey.

While it is filled with deep sorrow, he helps us understand how grief can be a friend. He says that he’s “discovered that the more visceral these feelings, the greater the opportunity to draw closer to the Lord in the midst of my anguish. I’ve learned that in those moments, He has me exactly where He wants me—pouring out my heart and tears before Him and asking for His help to get me through.”

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Paul told believers in Philippi that knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection was the most valuable treasure in life. The same is true for us today. A Lifeway Bible Study helps us understand how. Find it at Baptist Press.

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how to share the light of Christ at IMB.org.

In some places, you could travel miles and miles without encountering another person.

But, there are people who call the state home. In fact, more than 3.1 million people live in Nevada and they need to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ, grow in the faith and be loved in a community of believers.

The Northeast Association is a group of 23 churches who partner together…but they span 55,000 square miles in Nevada. Some of the churches are separated by more than 200 miles.

Robin Stork leads the association. 

He’s grateful for the partnership among the churches and says they are always looking for churches outside the state who will come and help existing churches or consider planting a church.

Read the full story at Baptist Press.

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We’re grateful for first responders who run toward emergencies while the rest of us are running away. But who cares for those first responders as they process the pain and trauma they’ve just witnessed?
 The North American Mission Board is working to train chaplains to work alongside first responders.

“First and foremost, chaplaincy is being the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus through the ministry of presence,” said Michael Koontz, who is a chaplain and pastor in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

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In the Baptist Press Toolbox, Chuck Lawless wonders if you’ve lost your wonder when it comes to your relationship with Jesus Christ. He says this may be one reason you aren’t telling others about Jesus. Lawless encourages you to find friends to pray that you’ll regain that wonder and you’ll share your hope with other. 

Read the full piece from Lawless at Baptist Press.

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how you can share hope at IMB.org.

Upon reaching a crossroads with two doors symbolizing celebration and defeat, users choose their path. Opting for celebration transports them to a picturesque island party, but the experience takes a twist as they descend into a dark tunnel—a metaphor for life’s challenges. This journey reflects the struggles and triumphs of the human experience, ultimately leading participants to a serene island where they encounter a gospel presentation.

IMB’s Bryson Holtson, part of the organization’s MXLabs innovation team, explains that this VR project aims to connect individuals with the message of Christ in a new, engaging way. As virtual reality becomes a growing social space, Holtson emphasizes its potential for missions, inviting everyone to explore this novel approach to sharing the gospel during the Olympic Games.

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Religious freedom no longer exists in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine, where religious leaders have been abducted and sometimes tortured, several Ukrainian journalists said during a recent visit to the United States.

Vlasta Lazur with Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe was one of the journalists in the U.S. recently.

Lazure said there have been multiple violations of religious freedom in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine.

Earlier this year, a Ukrainian priest in the occupied area of Kherson Oblast was kidnapped from his home by Russian forces and killed, he said.

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Are churches stuck in the past? Around 3 in 10 (29%) U.S. Protestant churchgoers say their church’s ministry activities and methods would fit best in a time period before the turn of the new millennium, according to a new study from Lifeway Research. Close to half (52%) say their church’s ministry belongs in the 2000s or later. Another 19% aren’t sure.

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The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how to carry light into the darkness at IMB.org.

“That’s the first thing I want people to see and know about me,” Armstrong told Baptist Press. “As we grow, we have to make sure we have our priorities in line. I keep God as a priority. I can’t really live without him. I can live without swimming or being an Olympian or any of that stuff.”

Armstrong captured one gold medal in the Paris Olympics as part of the men’s 4×100 meter freestyle relay team with Caeleb Dressel, Jack Alexy and Chris Guiliano that held off Australia to win the title on Saturday. 

While Armstrong is delighted to have the gold medal, he says he is honored to be representing the U.S.

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Religious liberty advocate Brent Leatherwood is asking the Olympics planning committee to take a look at the closing ceremony following a scene in the opening ceremony that many Christians found offensive.

A group of LGBT activists mimicked the scene from Leonardo DaVinci’s painting The Last Supper.

Dismay and disappointment rang out over the weekend.

Leatherwood is asking the Olympic leaders to invite faith leaders to look over plans for the closing ceremonies to ensure they honor all involved and watching around the globe.

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Whether your church calls them small groups, Sunday School classes or by some other name, church leader Thom Rainer says groups are vital to the life of the local church.

Rainer says it’s also important for church leaders to think about the purpose of the group. The aim of the group dictates the size and purpose of the group.

You can read an article from Rainer about how to get the most out of small groups in your church at our website Baptist Press.com.

The world greatest problem is lostness. Learn how you bring light and hope to the world at IMB.org.

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A law blocking most abortions in Iowa goes into effect today. The law bans abortions past six weeks. Since being passed by the Iowa legislature it has faced legal hurdles with the latest ruling coming just last week. Gov. Kim Reynolds called it a win for life. Fourteen states have laws similar to the one in Iowa. According to Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, “The Fetal Heartbeat Act passed in Iowa protects 2,093 lives annually at the point in pregnancy when unborn children have over a 90% chance of surviving.

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In his book Deeper, Dane Ortlund says painful honesty is necessary for spiritual growth. ““You restrict your growth if you do not do the painful, humiliating, liberating work of cheerfully bringing your failure out from the darkness of secrecy into the light of acknowledgment before a Christian brother or sister,” he writes. If we are not honest with ourselves and others about our need for growth, we will not grow. First John 1:7 speaks of “fellowship with one another,” that helps believers grow. Ortlund says it depends on honesty and authenticity.

The world’s greatest problem is lostness. Learn how to take good news to humanity at IMB.org.

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In Central Asia, Christianity is rare, and the Bible is less popular. Daler (Dahlair), a local man, surprised International Mission Board missionary Brent Dorsett and local believer Arman, by delving deeply into the Bible. After reading Genesis, Psalms, and Matthew, Daler reached Revelation. 

Daler’s questions about Revelation led to a two-hour exchange that felt different for Dorsett—not a debate, but a genuine search for understanding. In a town where Christians are discouraged, Daler’s deep reading was a miracle. After finishing, he proclaimed, "I believe Jesus is God," a rare declaration in this region where many only see Jesus as a prophet. Dorsett marvels at this transformation, which usually takes years. Amazingly, two other families in Daler’svillage have also become believers, highlighting the impact of prayer and mission efforts in spreading the gospel.

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According to a 2022 study, 77% of pastors struggle with developing leaders and volunteers, and 76% with connecting with unchurched people. Young pastors and those of large churches especially face these challenges. Effective outreach involves mobilizing church members to engage with unchurched people, often through relationships built over time. Successful strategies include encouraging genuine relationships, using smaller groups, leveraging curriculum with evangelistic lessons, and ensuring groups focus outward. By focusing on these areas, churches can revitalize their mission to reach the unchurched effectively.

First Odessa aims to reach the city’s growing Hispanic population, which makes up nearly 60% of the community. / Starting with a Spanish Bible class, they eventually launched a Hispanic church led by Pastor Ramos. Since its first service in December 2023, the church has seen over 50 people come to faith in Christ. They focus on discipleship and meeting the unique needs of bilingual families. 

First Odessa en Español continues to grow, united in their mission to spread the Gospel among the Hispanic people of Odessa.

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Chyler Hughes, a student at Lincoln University, recently experienced her first international mission trip to São Paulo, Brazil. Growing up, Hughes had never seen a Black missionary, but through her collegiate ministry, she encountered IMB missionaries Eric and Ramona Reese. The trip opened her eyes to the diversity in missions. Hughes says, “Seeing that representation shows you missions is for everybody.”

Pastor Jon Nelson, who led the group, emphasized the importance of diversity in missions. Nelson pointed out that only 8.4% of missionaries are of African descent. He says, “Some fruit from this trip is just in the way the students [will] see the world now. My students were able to see people that look like them,”

The trip had a profound impact on the students. Hughes herself went from thinking "Somebody else can do missions" to asking, "Why not me?" She now realizes the universal need for Jesus and the importance of spreading the Gospel worldwide.

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Reflecting on 13 years in ministry, Weddington NC, pastor, Jordon Willard shares valuable insights from his ministry journey, documented in the Baptist Press Toolbox. He emphasizes that the church belongs to Jesus, not the pastor and that God's Word is the true transformative power in ministry. Pastor Willard also points out the importance of prioritizing family, studying biblical languages, and having mentors.

Willard says, A long-term perspective in measuring growth and maintaining healthy work-rest patterns are crucial for pastoral longevity, and he states the importance of always remembering that God's approval matters most in ministry.

The destroyed sanctuary, built in 1890, was a Texas Historic Landmark. The extent of the damage to the other buildings remains unclear.

Under Jeffress's leadership, the church has grown to nearly 16,000 members and completed a massive building project including a new and updated worship center which opened in 2013. 

Pastor Jeffress expressed optimism, urging the congregation to see the fire as a catalyst for their mission to spread the Gospel. Future worship plans are still being finalized, but reconstruction efforts are already underway.

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In 2020 Ypsilanti Missionary Church was hit hard by COVID-19. Meeting in person was crucial for this congregation of just over 100, and Michigan’s strict COVID response brought an immediate impact, marking the beginning of a long road back … but results are showing. Pastor Joe Kennedy, initiated kids' worship on Sunday mornings and youth services on Sunday nights, eventually finding success with monthly youth-led services. These services allowed youth to lead in various roles, giving Pastor Kennedy the chance to grow as a mentor. The church's attendance is nearly back to 90, and recently two attendees accepted Christ.

The church’s annual kids' fishing derby, has also been a hit, drawing volunteers and creating memorable moments. Pastor Kennedy says, All the honor, credit and glory goes to God. He’s been so amazingly good to us.
 
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The upcoming election is on everyone's minds, creating a sense of heaviness and division in our nation and churches, writes Tony Martin. As Christians, we need to remember not to make politics an idol, placing our faith solely in Jesus, not in political leaders. 

Here are his key points of focus. 
The first is Courage. Trust in Christ over flawed human leaders. 
The second is Unity. Politics can divide us, but our unity in Christ is more important. 
And the third is Disagreement. Disagreeing doesn’t mean we can’t be friends. 

Martin says, as we approach the election, pray for wisdom, listen to others, focus on the Gospel, love unconditionally, and strive to be peacemakers.  Let's be a beacon of hope in these uncertain times. 

Specifically, 33 percent of Americans identify as Protestant, 22 percent Catholic, and 13 percent say they are another Christian group  or simply refer to themselves as “Christian.”

Still, fewer Americans see religion as an important aspect of their lives, and it shows in their beliefs and actions.

A Gallup survey finds U.S. adults are less likely to identify with a religion, say religion is very important to them, belong to a congregation or attend worship services.

Much of the decline of Christianity has happened in the past 20 years. In 2003, 83 percent of Americans claimed to be Christian, statistically unchanged from 84 percent in 1993 and only a slight drop from 86 percent in 1983. The high-water mark for Christian identification in Gallup’s survey was 96 percent in 1956.

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Like many pastors, Ron Metheny has long admired the writings of Charles Spurgeon and considered them to be educational, inspiring and encouraging.

Metheny, the pastor of Roland Memorial Church in Greenville, Kentucky, has taken one of Spurgeon’s popular works, “Eccentric Preachers,” and revised it, updating it into modern English.

Metheny said he was “very careful” in revising the edition. “I’m attempting to maintain faithfulness to the design, meaning, doctrine and purpose of Charles Spurgeon who lived, preached and wrote in Victorian England. I wanted it to still have Spurgeon’s voice in it while updating the language.”

His editing process has included reading the book from cover to cover more than a dozen times, Metheny said. He’s read it even more than that, saying he was introduced to it 

during his first pastorate 26 years ago. He has pastored five churches, including the last four years at Roland Memorial.

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Maybe your church is about to start planning their next budget. Church leader Sam Rainer offers some tips in our Baptist Press Toolbox.

1.    Start by projecting revenue first. Too many churches start by projecting expenses. It’s an understandable mistake because expenses represent how funds are spent on ministry. The problem is you can’t spend the funds unless they are first given. Dreaming about big-ticket ministry efforts may be fun, but it’s not wise to dream up a budget. When you start with what you expect to take in, you can better prioritize your expenses.
 
 

2.    Include deferred maintenance in your operating budget. Deferred maintenance is what happens when you postpone needed repairs to save money. The problem with deferring these repairs is that they become more expensive the longer you delay them. Repairing a leaky roof doesn’t get any cheaper with time. Put a deferred maintenance line item in your budget to take care of delayed repairs. Some churches have decades of delayed deferred maintenance projects. Start working on them this year.
 
 

3.    Include a contingency fund in your operating budget. Many churches do not have a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses. A church should have about three months of expenses set aside for emergencies. Start building this fund through your operating budget. In essence, you pay yourself with this tactic. As funds come into the operating budget, a portion is set aside for the contingency fund.
 
 

4.    Keep personnel costs between 45% and 55% of the total budget. Personnel costs include the salaries and benefits of all employees, part-time and full-time. A church with limited or no debt can be on the higher end of this range. A church with substantial debt will need to be on the lower end of this range, if not lower.

“The damage from Hurricane Beryl is severe and widespread,” said David Wells, disaster relief director for Texans on Mission. “This relief effort is a powerful picture of what it looks like when the body of Christ works together. We are delivering help, hope and healing in Christ’s name.”

The hurricane knocked out electricity to millions, leaving large portions of the region powerless for days. Without refrigeration and air conditioning, residents struggled to get food.

The Texans on Mission state feeding unit stepped up to the challenge. Waking up early in the morning, volunteers cooked more than 60,000 meals for Houstonians. They were distributed to 26 locations across the city, focusing on areas of particular need.

In conjunction with Texans on Mission, Sugar Land Baptist Church helped meet the needs of preschoolers across the city. The congregation put together roughly 3,500 sack lunches to distribute.

One of the meals was given to a woman who hadn’t eaten in two days. When she lost electricity, all the food in her refrigerator went bad. She’s elderly and doesn’t drive, so she was silently suffering.

“Christ cares about the suffering,” Wells said. “He commands his followers to meet needs and share God’s love with those who are hurting. That’s what the feeding team is doing.”

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Erica Patrick was called to international missions before she met her husband David, who also wanted to pursue ministry overseas. Together, they served in East Asia and raised their family overseas for almost 16 years before David died unexpectedly in 2020 at age 41. But Erica’s call to the nations remained. 

In the days following David’s death, Erica returned to the words from Psalm 115 her husband had used to comfort her during an earlier season of suffering – “Our God is in the heavens; he does whatever pleases him.”  

After a season of grief, she felt led by God to return to the field.

“Daddy’s not with us,” Erica told her children. “But this is what God has called us to as a family, so we will keep going in that.” 

Erica now serves in Taiwan with her three children. She has many roles – serving alongside the local church, teaching English as a Second Language classes, sharing the Gospel, discipling women in leadership and being a mother. 

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How can your church reach young adults? Experts say be authentic.

Authenticity is the currency of young adults. More than 2 in 5 (45%) young people feel as if no one understands them. To reach them in our churches, we need to help them be noticed, named, and known just as Christ has done for us. 

For your church to reach young adults, it must involve them in leadership, missions, and discipleship. The church exists today because it reached young adults in the past. Be encouraged that you and your church can reach and engage young adults.

Only five decades since the Civil War and 46 years after the passage of the 14th Amendment, the partnership was born amid exacerbated racial disparities.

“It was kind of unheard of when you think about it,” partnership leader Matthew Smyzer Jr. told Baptist Press, “when Black folk and white folk in 1914 – when I’m sure racial tensions were so much higher than they are right now – were able to set those aside for the cause of Christ, to offer holistic ministry from a mission perspective.

Today, a center to reach poor neighbors is the central focus of the ministry work together.

The facility sustained significant damage during a recent EF-1 tornado in Louisville. Thanks to community partners and friends from across Kentucky, work is underway to repair the center as a new school year is just around corner.

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In recent months, a series of natural disasters including Gulf Coast hurricanes, California wildfires, and severe Midwest storms have severely impacted communities nationwide. These events, coupled with skyrocketing construction costs following the COVID-19 pandemic, have left the insurance industry struggling to cope.

Specialized insurers like Church Mutual, GuideOne, and Brotherhood Mutual, known for insuring churches, report dwindling reserves. As a result, they've been forced to drop coverage for churches deemed high-risk, a move aimed at mitigating financial losses.

The repercussions are being keenly felt in Texas, where churches are grappling with the fallout. Many have been compelled to scale back programs and postpone essential building improvements due to financial constraints. Ironically, these upgrades could enhance insurability in the future.

For churches navigating these challenges, the impact is profound, affecting their ability to maintain operations and prepare for the future.

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In a Baptist Press Toolbox, Scott McConnell shares some tips for asking busy people to serve in church ministry.

1.    Ask your congregation to step away from commitments to other “good” things next year to make room for a commitment of time to God and to ask Him what that activity should be.

2.    Give people examples of ministry opportunities your church is planning to do over the next year so they can be specific with their time commitment. Otherwise, other things will creep in and take that time.

3.    Ask people to write down their commitment to remind themselves and to share this commitment with you and others. This can start a conversation about preparing for that area of service. Their early willingness may motivate others to make similar plans.

McConnell offers several more you can find in the full article at Baptist Press.

Falling in a presidential election year, the study shows Scripture-engaged Christians place more importance than others on being aware of civic and government issues, advocating for civic and government policies and submitting to government leaders.

Specifically, 66 percent of Scripture Engaged Christians said it is important or very important to maintain awareness of civic and government issues, 48 percent placed the same importance on advocating for civic and government policies, and 42 percent said the same of submitting to government leaders.

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Aaron Brooks, an Olympic wrestler, encountered scrutiny for publicly embracing his Christian faith during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Despite facing criticism, Brooks stood steadfast in his beliefs, using his platform to openly share his faith and inspire others. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete and represent his country while also staying true to his religious convictions. Brooks' unwavering commitment to both his sport and his faith has highlighted his resilience and dedication. By maintaining his integrity amidst challenges, his trainers say he has exemplified the importance of staying true to one's values even in the face of opposition. 

Brooks punched his ticket to the Paris Olympics by upsetting reigning Olympic gold medalist David Taylor in the 86-kilogram class. His interview remarks were nothing new for Brooks, who after winning his third straight NCAA title in 2023 earned criticism for his comments.

The Olympics games begin in Paris on July 26.

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God calls on believers to meditate on His Word. Kie Bowman writes about the command in the Baptist Press Toolbox.

“What is meditating on Scripture? To meditate is to move from intellectually understanding the passage to spiritually and prayerfully experiencing the passage. “

How does one meditate on God’s Word? “The late Tim Keller wrote an entire chapter about meditation in his book Prayer. Among many other things, he wrote, “Many of us have a devotional life in which we jump from fairly academic study of the Bible into prayer. There is a ‘middle ground’ however, between prayer and Bible study, a kind of bridge between the two. While deep experiences of the presence and power of God can happen in innumerable ways, the ordinary way for going deeper spiritually into prayer is through meditation on Scripture.”

Hurd said he led his church to pray for the country on Sunday morning following the tragedy that left one rally attendee dead and several wounded.

Southern Baptist Convention president Clint Pressley encourages believers to pray for healing, especially for Bible-believing churches that we would be part of the gospel solution, bringing down the talk of violence, hatred and pointing people to the goodness of God that is found in Jesus.”

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Five days after Hurricane Beryl swept across southeast Texas, large parts of Houston remain dark. Traffic lights, restaurants, homes all lack power in many places. Internet service is sporadic.

But the temperature is hot, as well, with the typical 95 degrees and high Houston humidity.

An electricity of frustration fills the air like the oppressive heat. People are on edge. It’s like having your wallet stolen, replacing your driver’s license and credit cards only to have the wallet taken again.

Waking up before dawn each morning, a group of Texans on Mission and church volunteers are ushering in a refreshing breeze of hope.

First they cooked 6,000 meals. The next day they did 7,500. Then 8,500. Soon, it’ll be 10,000 meals delivered across the city.

In other places across the region, Texans on Mission chainsaw teams are cutting up fallen trees and limbs. They’re making it possible for people to enter their homes again.

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Georgia church leader P.J. Dunn believes churches can reach young adults. 

He writes, “The first issue with defining young adults is that “young” is relative. Young is not age; it’s a mindset. Using it as a term to reach an age group quickly becomes problematic. While the generally accepted use of the term “young adult” is considered late teens and 20s, a person in that group rarely identifies as young. Only those outside of the group identify them as such.

The term “young adults” is hardly used on search engines, as people don’t type it in to find people like themselves. They use age and life stage words like married or single to self-identify and find community. Rather than define a people group, ask people questions about how they identify themselves so you can better shape language to connect with them.

Use specific, not general, language if you’re trying to define a life stage to communicate within your church and community. If you need to identify young adults, use married, single, gender, and age, not “young adult.”

2. See young adults

He says that data reveals young adults may be college students or emerging adults, but they may also be single, never married”, married, divorced or single parents. 

Read the full piece from Dunn to get insights on who young adults are and how your church can connect with them.

The Republican National Convention kicks off today in Milwaukee. While the convention is set on Donald Trump as its nominee for president in the November election, there are still many watching the convention’s recent development concerning pro-life policy.

Last week, the convention’s platform committee voted to propose a platform that some thought softened the party’s stance on abortion. Specifically, delegating the work of passing abortion bans to state legislatures.

The move comes two years after the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, but it is a significant shift from the work toward a federal abortion ban by the party that dates back to the early 1980s.

Republican leaders like Donald Trump and J.D. Vance have indicated that a softening of the party’s position might be needed to persuade independent voters to cast their ballot for Trump in the fall election.

While the party’s platform held strong on many of their valuing of human life, some ethics leaders and even Vice President Mike Pence expressed disappointment over the party’s proposed platfrom.

Baptist Press will be following the convention.

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Artificial intelligence could organize worship music sets, plan church budgets and perform administrative tasks as well as or better than humans, half or more of Christians said in new research from Barna Group and Gloo.

Reaching online audiences and creating online content for outreach are also prime areas for AI contributions, Christians told researchers.

But sermon planning and writing, and spiritual and mental health counseling are best left to humans, Christians said in Barna’s “Faith and AI” research conducted in partnership with Gloo.

“It’s no surprise that most Christian adults believe ministry tasks requiring a personal touch should be done by humans,” Steele Billings, head of AI at Gloo, said July 9 upon the data’s release. “But what may be surprising to most ministry leaders is that many Christians are optimistic about using AI beyond just everyday administrative tasks.”

Specifically:

• 53 percent of Christians believe AI could organize music sets as well as or better than humans; 41 percent would leave the work to humans, and 6 percent aren’t sure.
• 50 percent believe AI could give financial advice in church budgeting, 39 percent believe humans are best, and 10 percent are uncertain.
• 67 percent believe AI could perform just as well as or better than humans in administrative tasks such as scheduling and planning, 28 percent would prefer a human’s hand, and 4 percent are unsure.

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In a Lifeway Bible Study, Jeff Iorg writes, “Jeremiah promised a new covenant was coming. The new covenant was going to be different than former covenants in significant ways. But it was also a continuation of God’s historic work among His people. This covenant was unlike previous covenants, yet it built on those previous covenants.

“In the past, God’s covenants were focused on external symbols and requirements. God’s new covenant was devoid of external symbols or requirements. He declared, “I will put my teaching within them and write it on their hearts” (v. 33). The new covenant focused on internal change.

God still wants changed behavior, but only when motivated by inner transformation.

“A new covenant was coming, and God would establish it through the death of Jesus. Under the new covenant, we live in forgiveness, fully committed to God in heart and mind.”

Scottie Stice, SBDR director for the SBTC, shared through email that they are continuing to discover needs through their assessments as they work “to match needs to resources” while volunteers from both inside and outside the state have already begun their efforts.

Through Wednesday, a feeding unit was providing up to 5,000 meals and showers in Wharton, southwest of Houston, while Texans on Mission (formerly Texas Baptist Men) has a 15,000-meal-a-day feeding unit set up in Houston to prepare meals for those without electricity.

While Texas received the brunt of the storm’s initial impact, Beryl destroyed Beulah Baptist Church in Mansfield, La., and has brought heavy rain and severe storms as it has trekked across the United States, creating potential for flash flooding and tornadoes in New England and New York.

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In a remarkable journey from retirement to the Olympic stage, Ginger Gibson's story is one of unwavering faith and determination. Initially retiring after a successful career in synchronized swimming, Gibson found herself drawn back to the sport she loved. Motivated by a deep faith in God's guidance, she resumed training despite the challenges of age and physical demands.

Her return to competitive synchronized swimming was met with skepticism and doubt from many quarters, yet Gibson persevered, trusting in God's purpose for her journey. With the support of her family and a renewed passion, she qualified for the Olympics once again, showcasing her resilience and inspiring others with her story.

Ginger Gibson's odyssey from retirement to the Paris Olympics is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the belief that God's plans are always greater than our own. Her story encourages us all to embrace challenges with courage, trusting that every step of the journey has a divine purpose.

The 2024 Olympic Games begin July 26. 

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Youth ministry leaders say they wouldn’t call it a revival just yet, but there is definitely a wave of salvations across college campuses in America. Ben Beck, a campus minister at Purdue University, says campus ministry is the best he’s ever seen…and he’s been reaching the campus for more than 20 years.

Beck and other leaders say students are hungry for authentic relationship, truthful discussion…even on hard topics…and the call to follow something greater than themselves. That can be found in Jesus Christ.

“Our small Cessna bobbled lower and lower until its wheels made contact with the gravel runway, slicing through its many puddles,” Faulkner wrote in a blog entry. After deplaning, Faulkner and his partner walked off the landing strip and into the jungle...the Amazon jungle.

Faulkner serves as a Project 3000 missionary explorer with the International Mission Board. As an explorer, Faulkner and his ministry partner, Rhett Clarke, seek out and research unengaged and unreached Indigenous people groups in remote areas of the Amazon, bringing with them the world’s most important message – the Gospel. 

After a short walk, they met a man who invited them into his home. Faulkner describes how, over an open flame made a meal for them. Both the husband and wife listened intently as Faulkner and Clarke shared the story of Jesus calming the storm. During their two and a half weeks in the area, they visited the couple four times and shared more than 10 Bible stories and a Gospel presentation.

They later learned the family practiced withcraft. The explorers say it startled them at first, but the family’s zeal for hearing the Good News helped them overcome their fear. 

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More than 1,000 churches from across North Carolina have pledged to take part in a statewide initiative in early August that calls on church members to serve their local communities.

The “ServeNC” initiative, scheduled for Aug. 3-10, asks churches to meet the needs of their surrounding neighborhoods throughout that week. 

Participating churches can be found in 89 of North Carolina’s 100 counties. They have been encouraged to participate in service projects that meet specific needs in their local communities. 

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As the Republican National Convention kicks off next week in Milwaukee and the Democratic convention happens in August…some believers may be wrestling with their approach to the election cycle.

Tony Martin writes, “Our identity in Christ should shape every other aspect of our lives, including how we engage with our nation.

Be concerned. Yes, it’s important to be aware of what’s happening in the world and to care about justice, peace, and the well-being of others. But let’s not allow these concerns to eclipse our faith. It’s easy to get caught up in the news cycle, social media debates, and the latest controversies. However, we must remember that our ultimate hope does not lie in any human institution or leader but in God.

Be patriotic. Love your country, pray for its leaders, and strive to make it a better place. But remember, our earthly nations are temporary.

Be passionate. It’s okay to have strong opinions and to advocate for what you believe is right. But let’s do so with grace and humility.

Above all, be God’s. Our primary allegiance is to our Heavenly Father. When we keep our eyes on the eternal, we gain perspective on the temporal. We are reminded that our true home is not here but in heaven, and our ultimate goal is not to build a perfect society but to bring glory to God.

There were pro-Palestinian protesters who had their faces covered on Sunday, and by Monday at a press conference, Bass said she would examine a number of issues, like requiring permits for protests and regulating “people wearing masks at protests.”

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Millions continue to suffer religious persecution globally, with wars and civil conflicts exacerbating already existing ills in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, the U.S. State Department documented in its 2023 Report on International Religious Freedom.

The report on 199 countries and territories attempts to present a nonbiased overview of persecution by governments, extremists and members of society, relying on information from government officials, religious groups, nongovernmental organizations, journalists, human rights monitors, academia, media, and others.

Concurrently, the report notes advances in religious freedom and the United States’ commitment to continue advancing the freedom that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken deemed “an essential part of what it means to be human: the ability … to decide on our own what we believe or don’t believe without fear of repression.”

Escalations of religious persecution amid wartime and civil conflicts were noted in several reports including Israel, the West Bank and Gaza; Ethiopia, Haiti, Niger, Russia, Ukraine, Sudan, Mali and other countries.

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In the Baptist Press Toolbox, Jonathan Hayashi asks what knocks people our of ministry? He acknowledges immorality or financial greed play a role, but he wrestles with how bitterness affects those trying to minister to others.

“Bitterness is scary because it can eat you for lunch, like cancer taking up your whole body. The greatest weapon to battle against the root of bitterness is trusting in the sovereignty of God.

How should pastors respond against bitterness in their hearts?

Our faith in Christ must triumph over our feelings in self. The best way to counter bitter thoughts is to trust and embrace the comfort you find in the glorious doctrine of God’s sovereign grace.

Why? Satan only has certain limits, like in the story of the Book of Job. He is not omniscient, omnipotent, or omnipresent like our Creator God. The book of Hebrews says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Heb 13:5). God, in his infinite love, does not unfriend us or walk out on us because we mess up.”

“At the heart of the case is the wild assertion by the Biden Administration that abortion is healthcare. Instead of dismantling that argument and protecting lives, the Court punted,” said Brent Leatherwood, Ethics & Religious Liberty (ERLC) president. 

“We agree with Justices Alito, Thomas and Gorsuch that any perceived conflict here is the result of the federal government’s novel approach to EMTALA. These justices would have moved forward with ruling on the merits of the case––and the Court should have done so,” he said.

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If your church is having Vacation Bible School this summer, Melita Thomas wants you to think about your follow up plan. Families are open to hearing from the church their child attended for VBS.

At Baptist Press she writes, “Provide opportunities for families from within your church to build relationships with unchurched families.

Conduct a family movie night, a cookout in a local park, or some other activity for the whole family within two weeks of VBS to give unchurched families an opportunity to reconnect with the church. This year, why not partner with a local minor league ball team to host a Faith Night? Offer discounted tickets in a reserved seating block and encourage VBS families to attend. Plan for a picnic on the grounds or tailgating before the game begins. Encourage families to get to know a family they haven’t met yet.”

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Francis Schaeffer’s classic work, “True Spirituality,” explores what spirituality is and how one comes by it. Realizing the real-life disconnect many believers make regarding spirituality has compelled Schaeffer to remind us that true Christian spirituality happens “in the Spirit’s power.”

A Lifeway Bible Study says, “We cannot discipline ourselves into spirituality. We cannot will ourselves into spirituality. Regardless of what might seem the brightest place to search for spirituality, we must look for it where it can be found -- in the Spirit’s power.

In explaining this, Schaeffer stresses “two equal lines of reality.” The seen reality makes itself known daily. The unseen is more subtle, “the world of Christians who have died, who are with Christ now.” True spirituality happens when we live now in accordance with our death and our resurrection with Christ. When we live by faith now, empowered by the Spirit, as if we have already experienced resurrection, then true spirituality will infuse our lives.”

“Congress’ top priority should be making these platforms safer by passing legislation to protect kids’ health, safety and privacy,” he said.

Among those cheering the surgeon general’s actions, there is also some doubt as to its potential impact. Similar steps in the past appear to have been at least somewhat effective when it came to tobacco products. Listening to questionable music, not so much.

“I love that the surgeon general says this, but unless the social media platform is being held legally accountable for the things that take place there, I think it becomes an exercise in futility,” said Chris Martin, director of content for Moody Radio and author of “The Wolf in Their Pockets: 13 Ways the Social Internet Threatens the People You Lead.”

The result is “warning-labeling” things and getting the same amount of attention that comes with FBI anti-piracy screens at the start of a DVD, he pointed out. That said, such a step could be helpful in a “collective reflection on how social media is negatively affecting all of us, but especially young people.”

Go to the story at Baptist Press for suggestions on how you to use social media wisely.

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Down in Abilene, Texas, North Park Church had dwindled down to about 30 people and were looking for their next pastor. When they talked with Joe Grizzle about serving as their pastor, they told him that they may not be able to keep the church together much longer. 

He told them he’d take the challenge and settled in for ministry. Grizzle says he began reaching other pastors and ministry leaders in Texas. It wasn’t long before others joined in to help the struggling church.

They used block parties and fall festivals to generate attention. But, according to Grizzle, what made the difference was intentionally focusing on disciple making. Through relationships centered on God’s Word and spiritual growth, the church saw people respond, believe and follow Jesus.

Now, rather than focusing on an exit strategy, Grizzle says he’s excited about the church’s future.

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Janae Zook writes about the impact mothers have that they may not realize.

“God continues this partnership he began in Eden, choosing us—ordinary women—as conduits for his grace and purposes. We see this truth repeated throughout Scripture. Even in Eve’s rebellion, he chose to make her “the mother of all living.” God’s promise of a Savior is fulfilled as Mary gives birth to Jesus. To this day, God calls us and positions us to make disciples. My heart soars when I read Paul’s words to Timothy, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” We should marvel at the profound influence our role might have on our children and grandchildren. God used Lois and Eunice to cultivate Timothy’s faith, whose ministry has had eternal significance throughout the ages,” she writes.

She writes, “Our lives must give our children the best of us so that we may disciple their hearts and display God’s love. We must remember this calling demands our physical presence. God’s pairing of us with our children doesn’t end after the newborn stage or the arrival of kindergarten. Mothers are called to a place of primary influence. God’s path to significance is often counterintuitive. He calls us to a life in his upside-down kingdom—a kingdom where the judge sits in place of the guilty, where the last shall be first, and where perhaps the overlooked, unpaid work carries the greatest currency of all.”

Ethics leader Brent Leatherwood told Baptist Press, “This Tennessee law, created to protect vulnerable children, is now being challenged by the Biden administration in their latest effort to push forward radical gender ideology.”

Leatherwood said, “The protection of children from harmful transgender surgeries and interventions is not only an entirely appropriate action by the state, it is desperately needed in an era when culture is consumed by the fiction of gender fluidity.”

More than two dozen states have implemented restrictions on transgender issues over the past couple of years.

The court said they plan to hear the case later this summer.

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Most churchgoers believe Christians have a good reputation with Americans in general, but they worry those feelings are starting to sour.

A Lifeway Research study finds 53% of U.S. Protestant churchgoers say most Americans have a positive perception of Christians. Two in 5 (40%) disagree, and 8% aren’t sure.

More consensus exists on the direction public sentiment is headed. Around 7 in 10 (69%) believe people’s perceptions of Christians in the U.S. are getting worse, while 21% disagree. Another 10% say they aren’t sure.

Two in 3 churchgoers (66%) say a reason the public perception of Christians is worsening is because fewer Americans believe faith in God is relevant. Around 2 in 5 point to Christians not acting any different than those who aren’t Christians (45%), more Americans rejecting Christianity because it claims to be the only way (40%) and Christians often looking down on those who aren’t Christians (38%).

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David Ludwig, a church leader in Pennsylvania, believes leaders must be learners.

He writes, “Leaders need to keep growing so we can develop other leaders.

You can’t give away what you don’t have. I’m thankful that as a young leader I had a mentor that taught me the value of leadership development. Leadership development was a priority in his ministry, and because of that he convicted me of the importance of making this a priority in my ministry too.

Leaders need to develop “potential-future leaders.”

These are the people who are not leaders yet, but they have the potential to be leaders someday. Why is it important to develop this group of people? Because one day, we will be gone. Who will lead when you are gone? Do you have a leader succession plan? Even if you have enough leaders now, it is always wise to develop future leaders.

Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission president Brent Leatherwood says the marker doesn’t indicate an end of an era but instead, a new beginning.

“We rejoice knowing the ruling put an end to the Roe regime, but also realize there’s still work to be done on the local, state and federal level to put an end to abortion once and for all. We will continue to work with lawmakers to enact policies that care for and serve both vulnerable mothers and preborn children.”

Currently, 14 states have enacted near-total bans on abortion, with some providing limited exceptions, such as those for cases of rape or incest. There are a few additional states where abortion is legal but with a gestational limit of six to 18 weeks.

Data from the initial months after Roe was overturned indicates abortion decreased throughout the country during that time period. However, the Guttmacher Institute, a pro-abortion research and policy organization, released data earlier this year demonstrating a spike in overall abortions provided nationwide in 2023.

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Hope remains for members of of Springdale Baptist Church in Tazewell, Tennessee after a June 1 fire destroyed their entire church building. A building that dates back to 1882.  

A number of church members were at a birthday party when they received the call about the blaze.

Pastor Brandon Christian, who was at the birthday party, arrived as quickly as possible. 

“As the church was burning, I told our members that we’d be here on Sunday, holding a service,” he said.

And they were. 

Three years ago, the church had been a given one-room log church building that adjoins their property.

Christian said the church refurbished the building and has used it for special events only.

That’s where they’ve been meeting for services.

The church is working to rebuild and the pastor says other churches and the community has come to their aid.

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We’re all busy. Mark Dance offers some tips on how to manage your time.

He writes, “Jesus and His dozen apostles were exhausted from a ministry sprint that included a resurrection (Jarius’ daughter) followed immediately by the execution of John the Baptist. One thing ministry peaks and valleys have in common is that they both leave us exhausted and in need of a recharge.

“I don’t know how many times I’ve experienced the burn of burnout only to look at my calendar and see how long it had been since I’d taken a real break from my ministry routine. If you’ve gone more than three months without taking a break from preaching or teaching, you’ll experience this burn.”

The last two years have been filled with ballot initiatives, executive orders and legislations across the US that has varied greatly.

The decision has created what is known as “abortion tourism” as people travel from their home state…where abortion is illegal or restricted…to a nearby state where they can gain access.

Numerous cases related to abortion are being considered by state Supreme Courts.

Still, though, there is abortion-related debate in Congress.

ERLC President Brent Leatherwood said, ““After the Dobbs decision, states are again empowered to shape abortion policy, but that doesn’t prevent Congress from making consequential decisions in this area. Senator Lankford and others clearly understand this with the courageous leadership they’ve shown this week by bringing forth several crucial pro-life bills, including the Conscience Protection Act and the Born Alive Survivors Protection Act.”

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Weather watchers continue to keep an eye on the Atlantic as a storm is strengthening in the warm waters off the coast. Mexico is still facing the consequences of a strong storm that came ashore last week. 

Storm predictors continue to say this could be one of the most active storm seasons in recent history.

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A Lifeway Research study finds 3 in 10 U.S. Protestant churchgoers (31 percent) have seen at least one type of congregational connection with those local centers since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

16% say their church has supported a local pregnancy resource center financially. 

14% of pastors encouraged those in the congregation to support a center financially (14 percent) or encouraged the congregation to refer those with unplanned pregnancies to the center (14 percent). 

11% say their church has encouraged the congregation to volunteer at a local pregnancy resource center.

Gen Zers largely saw their life’s plans interrupted by the COVID pandemic and are stressed and less hopeful amid an uncertain job market exacerbated by rising living costs and likely college debt, the ABS said in its third chapter of the annual report released June 13.

Since 2020, researchers have used Harvard University’s Human Flourishing Index to track human progress in areas defined by happiness and life satisfaction, mental and physical health, meaning and purpose in life, character and virtue, close social relationships, and financial and material stability.

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Before “The Forge” debuts in theaters across the country on August 23, Alex and Stephen Kendrick are giving select audiences an opportunity at a sneak peek at the film.

In two different screenings sponsored by Lifeway Films on June 10, and June 11, the filmmaking brothers shared their heart behind the movie to hundreds gathered to hear their story and watch the film.

Stephen Kendrick said “The Forge” provides a refocusing for churches and Christians on Jesus’ call to make disciples. “Our hope for every film is that it is an entertaining, inspirational ride you can watch and enjoy with your entire family. We love lifting up the name of Jesus in theaters. But our hearts’ desire is the kingdom,” he said. “Filmmaking is an excuse to make disciples, on set, through our films, through resources, and everything we do. Our hope is that this will be a tool for pastors to ignite a renewed passion for the Great Commission.”

The movie follows the story of 19-year-old Isaiah Wright, played by newcomer Aspen Kennedy, who is drifting through life – no job, no plans, no idea how to be a man. His mom, Cynthia, played by Priscilla Shirer, gives him an ultimatum – step up or move out. Enter Joshua Moore, played by Cameron Arnett, who not only gives Isaiah a job but much needed wisdom and spiritual guidance. Isaiah is forced to deal with his past, sacrifice his selfishness and discover how God might have a greater purpose for his life.

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In his book “Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners”, Dane Ortlund explores how Christians can grow in their faith and Christlikeness. The final session of our study from this book, entitled “Honesty,” delves into the role honesty plays in such growth.

The apostle John wrote, “If we walk in the light as He himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7).

Ortlund makes clear his point: “You restrict your growth if you do not do the painful, humiliating, liberating work of cheerfully bringing your failure out from the darkness of secrecy into the light of acknowledgment before a Christian brother or sister.” If we are not honest with ourselves and others about our need for growth, we will not grow.

Disaster relief workers are keeping a close watch on the fires and are preparing to help those affected as they recover. 

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Church leaders across have worked together to develop a new curriculum to help churches prevent sexual abuse and care for those who have been affected by it.

A new resource called Essentials: Sexual Abuse Prevention and Response is now available at sbcabusepreventions.com.

The resource focuses on five areas – training, screening, protecting, reporting and caring.

The curriculum developers recommend a church enlisting five key leaders and work through the five chapters of the curriculum.

Each chapter has a list of a tasks to accomplish before moving to the next chapter. They say it should take about a month to complete.

They recommend group take a 5-5-5 approach: five leaders through five chapters in about five months.

Learn more about the resource at sbcabuseprevention.com.

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Speaking on the necessity of prayer and fasting to help usher in revival, Kie Bowman says, “John Wesley took a dim view of pre-revival America, but he had a plan to change it. Wesley spent time in the colonies and reported, “I desired as many as could to join together in fasting and prayer, that God would restore the spirit of love and of a sound mind to the poor deluded rebels in America.” Even a side glance at the current cultural moment demonstrates that prayer and fasting are just as urgently needed for the “poor deluded rebels in America” today as they were when the nation was new.

Prayer is mentioned hundreds of times in Scripture, and fasting is mentioned about 70 times. Prayer can obviously be practiced without fasting, but fasting, as Scripture describes it, is impossible without prayer. Even when fasting is discussed in passages where prayer is not explicitly mentioned, prayer is obviously implied. 

At a Send Relief meeting in Indianapolis last week, Bryant Wright, president of Send Relief, told of time in 2014 when he and his wife sat in the tent home of a Syrian refugee family on the border of Lebanon and Syria. The father, blinded by the ravages of warfare, listened intently as Bryant shared the gospel. “Even though the man was blind, I could see in his eyes a sense of hope. And that day, that man trusted Christ as his Lord and Savior,” Wright said.

Wright acknowledged there are differing opinions when it comes to refugees and migration. 

He said while the government is called on to enforce the law, “the church has a call to love our neighbor.” 

“We are to respond in the same way as Christ, caring for those in need,” he said.

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Public policy leaders are watching the U.S. Senate where Oklahoma Senator James Lankford and New York Senator Charles Schumer are schedule to bring abortion-related legislation to the floor.

Lankford’s’ pro-life legislation is scheduled for midweek while Schumer’s pro-abortion bill is slated for Thursday.

Baptist Press will be following the bills and have details at Baptist Press.com.

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South Carolina pastor RaShan Frost says, “Every father needs to understand that if our children are a gift from God – and they are, based on Psalm 127:3 – then we have a responsibility to teach them that their authentic selves can only be found in Christ. When we understand that to be our responsibility, then how we model Christ to our children will either draw them to or repel them from the Lord. It starts when they are born and it will continue the rest of our lives.

Capturing the hearts of our children is a two-part work according to Ephesians 6:4 – we are to “not stir up anger in our children” and to “bring them up in training and instruction in the Lord.” In other words, fathers should both nurture and admonish our children. Nurturing is cultivating, encouraging, comforting, training, and instructing our children. It is the positive activity of raising our children in Christ.

As fathers, we have to correct our children when correction is necessary. But it is important to remember that our motivation for nurturing and admonishing our children is love. Our children will accept our correction when they know it comes from a heart of love.”

During a luncheon, Chaplain Major General Doug Carver (U.S. Army retired) told the group, ““You are sent outside of your church to some tough places where the church can’t go,” Carver said, emphasizing the unique and vital role chaplains play in prisons, hospitals, the Armed Services, and other challenging settings where credentials and endorsements are essential.

Carver challenged them to be lifelong learners.

The luncheon also included a special recognition for United States Navy Chaplain (LCDR) Scott Callahan, who was commissioned during the event. Callahan, a 1993 graduate of the Naval Academy, served as a chaplain until 2011 and later as a missionary in China and Singapore before returning to the Navy as a chaplain.

Carver, who is also serving as an interim pastor, then delivered a message from the book of Malachi. He underscored the importance of sincere and wholehearted dedication to ministry, urging chaplains to offer their best to God, not merely what is convenient.

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Hannah Daniel of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission knows election discussion and debate can be challenging. But believers want to stand on their convictions.

She writes, “We believe that the family is the foundational institution of our society and that God has ordained the family order for our flourishing (BF&M 2000).1 We hold that marriage is between one man and one woman for life, and that children are a blessing to those parents. Parents, then, have been endowed with special rights and responsibilities in the upbringing of their children and are the primary instructors and educators of their children in matters of faith, morality, and virtue.”

As Christians consider their vote this November, it is vital that we examine how our candidates for elected office view these truths about God’s good design for marriage and families. In evaluating our options, we should ask ourselves whether a candidate will push forward policies that: 

• strengthen families, 
• bolster parental rights, 
• safeguard the vulnerable, 
• and protect the consciences of Americans who object to the falsehoods of the sexual revolution 

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A good team needs leaders and team members. Solid members serve in many way, but Jacki C. King says they must be teachable and aware of weaknesses.

Teachable

“Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more.” Prov. 9:9 (NLT)

A good team member is always open to learning. Being teachable means recognizing that there is always room for growth and improvement. It involves listening to feedback, seeking out new knowledge and skills, and being willing to adapt and change when necessary. A great supervisor or pastor will help point you in directions for growth both spiritually and professionally, but it is solely your responsibility to own your own leadership development. Find new books to read, listen to podcasts from other thought leaders, and get certified in a new area. A nice byproduct of being busy learning is that you don’t have time to be cynical and complaining. Stay curious and hungry. 

Aware of Weaknesses

“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 2 Cor. 12:9 (NLT)

Understanding and acknowledging our own weaknesses is a sign of humility and self-awareness. When we know where our weaknesses lie, we can seek help and support from others. This awareness allows us to build on our strengths and collaborate more effectively with team members who can complement our skill sets. It’s also a needed reminder that we have limits and we aren’t the sole focus of our work and ministry. We can’t do it all, and that’s a good thing.

The film removes all barriers Deaf people face when viewing spoken-language films with subtitles, a standard that Josselyn says makes it difficult for Deaf viewers to experience the emotions critical to any given story.

“Having an experience where Jesus is Deaf, is signing, and a Deaf cast where they’re all signing, so they could see all the emotion, they could see what was happening,” is what Joseph Josselyn sees as critical to the production. “There wasn’t anything they had to detach from. There were no barriers. They didn’t have to go through an interpreter … or a second party to get that information. To me, that’s why this is so important.”

Showings are scheduled in at least 275 theaters in the U.S. June 20 and 23. Deaf Missions recommends early ticket purchases and group attendance to encourage theaters to expand the schedule.

Deaf Missions made the film primarily for Deaf audiences, but included elements such as English subtitles and a soundtrack to accommodate a hearing audience. Also, Deaf people can experience music by feeling the bass.

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The rise of the nones may be declines. The nones are those who claim no religious affiliation. They are mostly younger people in their late teens and 20s.

Trevin Wax, vice president of research and development at NAMB, observed that the “strangeness” of church has become its appeal for Gen Z, given that fewer of them have any family background in church.

“When young people accept the invitation to visit a church, they’ve already committed to experiencing something unusual,” Wax wrote for The Gospel Coalition in April. “Attempts at being overly accommodating or making the church seem ‘cool’ come off as desperate and insecure.”

Young people, Wax wrote, want to be “courted by the church, welcomed into fellowship, entrusted with responsibility and shown they matter.”

“But more than anything, they want to be ushered into splendor, not superficiality. They’re looking for an antidote to the shallow life of swiping and scrolling through endless entertainment.”

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How can you be a valuable team member? Jacki C. King encourages you to be teachable.

Drawing from Prov. 9:9, she writes, “A good team member is always open to learning. Being teachable means recognizing that there is always room for growth and improvement. It involves listening to feedback, seeking out new knowledge and skills, and being willing to adapt and change when necessary. A great supervisor or pastor will help point you in directions for growth both spiritually and professionally, but it is solely your responsibility to own your own leadership development. Find new books to read, listen to podcasts from other thought leaders, and get certified in a new area. A nice byproduct of being busy learning is that you don’t have time to be cynical and complaining. Stay curious and hungry.

To date, there have been twenty-seven official versions of the flag, but the arrangement of the stars varied according to the flag-makers’ preferences until 1912, when President Taft standardized the then-new flag’s forty-eight stars into six rows of eight. The forty-nine-star flag (1959-60), as well as the fifty-star flag, also have standardized star patterns. The current version of the flag dates to July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became the fiftieth state on August 21, 1959.

The day was set aside by Congress as a day for patriotism – to give thanks for the freedoms Americans share.

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Father’s Day is coming this Sunday. In days past, children would try to outdo one another in supplying dad with another tie. Today, not so much, but fathers still long for appreciation and respect.

The Christian Standard Bible says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is right. 2 Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, 3 so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life in the land. 4 Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” -- Ephesians 6:1-4 (CSB)

We’ll have a thought on this passage when we come back.

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Children can honor their parents – no matter how old they are even if they’re parents aren’t that honorable.

Honoring one’s parents means finding value in one’s parent and being grateful for them. Some have parents who are honorable and worthy of praise. Others have parents who did played very little role in their lives. Still, there is a reason to be grateful for fathers.

Perhaps we could all step back to think about the value of fatherhood and motherhood on society – it’s a role that is often taken for granted, minimalized and marginalized.

Children may be thankful for what their father does, but take for granted who he is.

Adults can look on the character of their father, reflect and say thanks.

This Father’s Day take a few moments to thank your father for what he did in your life – whether it is little or much. There will be a day when you can’t. Don’t miss the opportunity you have today.

Some of their concerns include, “At a very basic level, the way IVF is routinely conducted now, which includes over fertilization of eggs without a clear plan for implantation, freezing of leftover embryos, and even the destruction of these human embryos once a couple has succeeded in getting pregnant or no longer desires to keep them, is extremely problematic. It is within the jurisdiction of the state to promote the good of families and restrain the evil of treating these human beings as disposable or simply a means to an end.”

God design and desire for procreation should be considered, says the ERLC. “Christians should also weigh whether the practice itself violates certain theological principles. Namely, the question of severing procreation from the sexual union, and the anthropological question of “making” children as commodities rather than “begetting” them as gifts from God.

Christians must take seriously the teleological and biological orientation of sexuality and reproduction.”

The group has compassion for those who are struggling to bear a child. “We also recognize that IVF may meet a very real need in the life of couples. The desire for children is a moral good and Godly desire. As rates of infertility rise and couples find pregnancy difficult, it is natural to seek medical help so as to restore, where possible, the capacity for children.”

Read the full piece on the important issue at BaptistPress.com.

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In the Baptist Press Toolbox, Daniel Bouchoc writes, “So, if pastors or volunteers or parents want to effectively engage and disciple young adults, they must equip themselves in knowing, presenting, and defending “what accords with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1, Cf. Titus 1:9; 1 Timothy 1:10). And we will become so by not only going deep in our Bibles, but going wide in our familiarity with solid Christian theology and growing in our ability to wield it for the good of those young people we long to reach and disciple.

So, as one step toward this, what should one be reading/doing to prepare for ministering to college agers?

Young adults don’t need new answers. They need age-old answers applied to contemporary phrasing of age-old questions. And thankfully for us, the Christian tradition is in no small part the history of answering the most foundational questions humans have ever wondered about.”

Central to the work of the meeting is the commissioning of new missionaries to take the Gospel to the nations. This year, the IMB put forward more than 80 missionaries to be sent through the cooperative work of Southern Baptists.

These missionaries will go to the field, fully-funded, because of the giving of the more than 47,000 churches partnering together across the US and Puerto Rico.

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While Southern Baptists are meeting in Indianapolis, in nearby South Bend, Indiana, Pastor Stephen Love is working with a group of believers to help plant Redemption City Church.

While the city is primarily known as the home of the University of Notre Dame, Love knows of the great need it has for Jesus.

He asks you to join him to, “Pray for boldness to share the gospel and open hearts among the people to whom the church planting team speaks. Pray that through this ministry, more people would come to saving faith and live on mission. Pray for stamina and longevity for ministry amidst attacks from the enemy.”

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What if you spent just 15 minutes more in pray every day?

1.    Chuck Lawless writes, “You will release some of your burdens. Fifteen minutes may not be long, but it’s time with God. He’s in control of how much He will change and encourage us in those minutes.

2.    You will express your love for somebody. Few things are as loving as interceding for others and taking them to God’s throne – even if you do it in the quiet of your prayer closet for just a few minutes. 

3.    You’ll be more prepared to stand before God’s people this weekend. It’s amazing how our church leadership roles change when we pray more.

4.    You will want to pray even more. Nobody ever prayed more than 15 minutes without praying the first 15 minutes. Spend a few more minutes with God, and you’ll begin wanting more.

Messengers are considering recommendations on sexual abuse response and reform as well as ways to improve cooperation among the convention’s 47,000 churches.

The meeting represents the gathering of the largest deliberative body in the world and spans two full days.

An amendment that seeks to further clarify the convention’s understanding of who may fill the office of pastor is also on the agenda.

Members from churches in almost every state and Puerto Rico will be in attendance for the meeting.

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The International Mission Board is encouraging believers to pray for the Baloch people of Central Asia.

It is unknown if there has ever been a healthy, authentic Baloch church worshipping in the Balochi language. Baloch believers face great risk if they meet together as Christians. Pray God will gather Baloch together to form a church despite the danger.

You can learn more about how you can pray for and get involved with getting the Gospel to those who’ve never heard at IMB.org.

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Midwestern Seminary professor Joe Allen writes about the way New Testament writer Paul prayed for those who didn’t know Jesus. 

His desire was not a shallow, fleeting desire, but a core longing that sprang from the center of his being. If you do not feel deep compassion for the lost, go back and review the gospel. Think about the sacrifice of Jesus and the depth of the love that bought your salvation. 

Paul prayed fervently. The people of Israel had rejected Jesus as their Messiah, but Paul remained hopeful that they might be saved. Paul did not give up on them, and he did not leave his heart’s desire unexpressed; he acted. 

Third, Paul prayed specifically. He did not pray ambiguous prayers for some amorphous spiritual blessing. Instead, he prayed for their salvation. Elsewhere, Paul prayed for boldness (Eph. 6:18–20), for opportunity (Col. 4:2–4), and that the Word of the Lord would spread rapidly and be glorified (2 Thess. 3:1). 

By offering English classes and practical support, the church has become a crucial resource for newcomers, facilitating their integration into American society. The say partnership with ERLC has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and enhancing advocacy efforts. Their commitment to serve those in need, especially during critical times like the Afghan refugee crisis, demonstrates the powerful impact of faith-driven community engagement. This ministry stands as a testament to living out the gospel through action and compassion.

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Asa and Vanessa Watson, former NFL player and NASCAR employee respectively, serve with the International Mission Board (IMB) in Germany. They build genuine friendships through hosting Bible studies, leading church services in a boxing gym, and providing hospitality. Their openness and willingness to discuss faith have deeply impacted their German community. Despite initial curiosity about their move from the U.S., the Watsons' commitment to their calling and consistent, transparent interactions have fostered meaningful relationships. They are set to become fully funded IMB workers, participating in the SBC annual meeting in June.

The Watsons' ministry also includes running a church service in the same boxing gym where they build friendships, offering a unique environment for worship and community. They have embraced their new culture and lifestyle, demonstrating that genuine relationships and consistent, transparent faith can transcend cultural barriers. Their story exemplifies how diverse backgrounds can be leveraged for impactful ministry, drawing on their experiences from NFL and NASCAR to connect with people in Germany.

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Jacki C. King says so much is said in modern culture about being a good leader that people often undervalue the role of the follower.

Based on 1 Cor. 1:10, she writes, “A divided team can’t gain much ground if there are divisions and conflicting end goals. Sabotage happens in small ways—side meetings after the meeting, comments on other staff members’ remarks, and oversharing details with people outside the organization are all examples of well-meaning conversations gone rogue. As staff members, it’s important to ensure that when input is asked for and decisions are made, everyone leaves the room on the same page and with the same voice. Unity is essential; differing opinions and discussions should be encouraged in the decision-making process, but once a decision is reached, it is vital that the team moves forward together. This does not mean that differences of opinion aren’t expressed or that there is a blind eye to sin and lack of integrity.”

A ballot initiative is a mechanism by which constituents can directly propose laws and constitutional amendments for a local or state government. Typically, this process is voted on by including it on the November ballot. Many states are now making progress either to include pro-life protections in state law or to oppose such pro-life measures, including amendments to codify pro-abortion laws into the state constitution.

There are abortion-related ballot initiatives in 13 states.

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The sky grew dark with threatening clouds shortly before 6 p.m. May 22, but the eight people gathered for the midweek service at Dyess Grove Baptist Church, southeast of Temple, decided to go ahead as planned.

“All of a sudden those warnings on our phones went off” at about 6:20, said Pastor Steve Goode.

“We said, ‘Let’s cut this short.’”

Members fled the church building. Moments later, a tornado ripped off the wall that formed one side of the church worship space.

The end of the building remained open to the elements until a Texans on Mission temporary roof team arrived to close off the structure as much as possible.

The church’s insurance company is working on a solution. In a meantime, the disaster relief team continues to assist.

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Midwestern Seminary professor Joe Allen writes, “Prayer and evangelism go together like chocolate and peanut butter. The two practices mutually reinforce one another and enhance the other spiritual disciplines. The dynamic happens like this: the more you pray, the more you attune your heart to God’s heart, and specifically, God’s heart for the lost. The more you seek to evangelize, the more you sense your need for the Holy Spirit’s divine enablement and long for his intervention. Prayer should lead to gospel proclamation, and gospel proclamation should intensify your prayers.

The irony is that prayer is often a solitary activity that appeals to introverts, while evangelism is a social activity that appeals to extroverts. Regardless of your personality, maintaining a close interrelationship between prayer and evangelism will push you out of your comfort zone and force you to grow. When you join prayer and evangelism, watch out! Something special is about to happen.”

In Florida, the ballot initiative amends the Florida constitution by barring the government from “prohibiting, penalizing, delaying, or restricting abortion” before fetal viability or to protect a woman’s health when a medical provider determines that it is necessary. This amendment would undo existing pro-life laws. It requires a 60 percent affirmative vote for passage.

Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the ERLC says voters will consider an initiative establishing in the state constitution that residents of the state are not guaranteed a right to taxpayer-funded abortions and that there is no fundamental right to an abortion. This amendment would aid in the passage of future pro-life legislation and other restrictions on abortion. The initiative is still working its way through the state legislature.

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Christian researcher Ryan Burge says the rise of the nones – those who claims no religion – seems to be slowing.

Paul Worcester, NAMB’s national collegiate director, said he can list multiple SBC collegiate ministries that saw 40 to 80 students make professions of faith in Christ this past school year.

“We are seeing a growing movement of collegiate leaders who have a relentless focus on equipping students to become laborers on campus, and the results are exponential spiritual multiplication,” Worcester told BP. “The best person to reach a student with the Gospel is another student.”

Chuck Lawless says you might be surprised if you added 15 minutes to your daily

prayers. He says you might be:

1. You’ll be more focused on God. Even if only for a few more minutes, looking toward heaven can move your heart.
2. You’ll be more convicted over your sin. That happens when you spend time with God, but that’s a good thing. Conviction leads to repentance, which leads to forgiveness and cleansing.  
3. You’ll have more confidence as you lead. Leaders who pray more sense God’s presence more keenly as they lead.
4. You will be more grateful. Most of us do indeed need to pray more – and our hearts are thankful when God helps us to make and keep that commitment. 
5. You will be a godlier spouse and parent. I’m assuming, of course, that your time with God leads to genuine change, but you’ll humbly hold your head higher in your home if it does.
6. You’ll get more work done. Taking time to be with God doesn’t take away our time to work; it refocuses it on the eternal, and it forces us to use our remaining time more wisely.

One in 5 U.S. Protestant pastors (21 percent) say they see nothing wrong with two people of the same gender getting married, according to a Lifeway Research study. Three in 4 (75 percent) are opposed, including 69 percent who strongly disagree with same-sex marriage. Another 4 percent say they aren’t sure.

Previous Lifeway Research studies found growing support among pastors. In 2010, 15 percent of U.S. Protestant pastors had no moral issues with the practice. The percentage in favor grew to 24 percent in 2019. Today, support is statistically unchanged at 21 percent.

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Consensual adult content including nudity and sex is now OK on X, formalizing an unstated practice allowed when the platform was called Twitter.

Pornographic images and acts may be shared whether they depict actual humans, cartoons, anime or hentai – a sexualized form of anime – or are photographic or generated by artificial intelligence, X said in announcing the policy in May.

ethicist Jason Thacker called the policy “extremely disturbing and dangerous for all involved – especially minors and women,” but said it simply formalizes a longstanding policy at Twitter/X regarding pornography.

“This policy change is no surprise to those working on these issues, especially in light of the false connections drawn between free speech and pornography in contemporary law and society,” Thacker, senior fellow and director of the research institute at the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), told Baptist Press.

The formal change comes as X’s usage has dropped 30 percent since 2023, with 19 percent of the U.S. population using the platform in 2024, a decrease from the 27 percent who used the platform in 2023 and 2022, Edison Research reported in March. The numbers refer to active users, not those who simply hold accounts that are mostly dormant.

Hershael York, dean of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary School of Theology, tweeted plans June 4 to end his account.

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Daniel Bouchoc writes, “Young adults face new life stages and challenges. They have questions about dating, marriage, finance, politics, culture, and more. They often no longer rely on their parents or tradition for answers. They need deep, robust, and coherent doctrine that addresses the complexities and hardships of life. You might get away with shooting from the hip in youth group, but young adults will suss out a run-of-the-mill answer in a heartbeat. Not only this, but as a generation coming of age amid heightened turbulence (American political context, COVID) and lack of solidity (social media), they long for rootedness and concreteness. A concreteness only deep doctrine can provide. YAs need mature doctrine so they can mature into adulthood (Hebrews 5:11-14).”

“The rise of the nones may be largely over now. At least it won’t be increasing in the same way it did in the prior 30 years,” Ryan Burge, an American Baptist pastor and data analyst on religion, wrote at graphsaboutreligion.com in May.

Burge’s best guess for why is that marginally attached people switched to “no religion” on surveys for so long that eventually very few marginally attached respondents remained.

“All you had left were the very committed religious people who likely won’t become nones for any reason,” Burge wrote. “The loose top soil has been scooped off and hauled away, leaving nothing but hard bedrock underneath.”

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After meeting with church music leaders, Lifeway Christian Resources announced its commitment to continue operating lifewayworship.com.

Lifeway President and CEO Ben Mandrell said he and the leadership team appreciated the feedback they received over the last several months. “We’ve held listening sessions with over 200 church leaders from across the country since last fall,” Mandrell said. “Worship leaders told us this is their curriculum for discipling the people they lead in their ministries, and they rely on Lifeway Worship for music that has been vetted theologically and that encourages congregational singing.”

Mandrell continued, “Lifeway has decided to continue offering this essential resource and provide new arrangements of music for worship teams.”

Last summer, Lifeway announced it would shut down the website that provides arrangements, charts, sheet music and other music resources for church worship. 

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The founder of the Navigators, Dawson Trotman, thought Christians should pray for more. He once said, “Do you know why I often ask Christians, ‘What’s the biggest thing you’ve asked God for this week?’ I remind them that they are going to God, the Father, the Maker of the Universe. The One who holds the world in His hands. What did you ask for? Did you ask for peanuts, toys, trinkets, or did you ask for continents?” Trotman taught that we should pray for God-sized agendas. Was he right?

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught us history’s most famous prayer.  He advised us to pray like this, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matt. 6:10) That is a God-sized prayer! It asks a lot. In regard to this prayer, Greg Laurie once said, “If His Kingdom is going to come, my kingdom has got to go.” In other words, praying for more will always bring our small, self-serving interests into conflict with His bigger, Kingdom plans.

The film removes all barriers Deaf people face when viewing spoken-language films with subtitles, a standard that Josselyn says makes it difficult for Deaf viewers to experience the emotions critical to any given story.

“Having an experience where Jesus is Deaf, is signing, and a Deaf cast where they’re all signing, so they could see all the emotion, they could see what was happening,” is what Josselyn sees as critical to the production. “There wasn’t anything they had to detach from. There were no barriers. They didn’t have to go through an interpreter … or a second party to get that information. To me, that’s why this is so important.”

Showings are scheduled in at least 275 theaters in the U.S. June 20 and 23. Deaf Missions recommends early ticket purchases and group attendance to encourage theaters to expand the schedule.

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Almost all churches believe they are welcoming places for everyone. But many families that include individuals with special needs often feel otherwise. Experts say it doesn’t have to be this way.

Churches that want to welcome everyone, including those with special needs, should begin by asking questions, said Sandra Peoples, the disability ministry consultant for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention and mother of a son with autism. Leaders often make assumptions about what happens in their congregation and whether needs are being met.

Nearly every U.S. Protestant pastor (99 percent) and churchgoer (97 percent) believe a person with disabilities would feel welcome and included at their church, according to a 2020 Lifeway Research study. However, for many on the other side of that question – families of people with special needs – churches’ actions don’t always match their intentions.

Find resource at Lifeway.com/SpecialNeeds

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During the growth of the early church, Gentiles, people from non-Jewish backgrounds, were coming to faith in Jesus Christ. The church had to ask whether someone first had to become Jewish to follow Jesus — whether they had to be circumcised and follow the law. Some believed that they did, while others did not.

The Jerusalem Council met to resolve this dispute. Peter argued that because Gentiles received the Holy Spirit and God knows the hearts of all, He doesn’t make a distinction between circumcised and uncircumcised. Peter affirmed that faith for all is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.

Affirming the sufficiency of faith in Jesus for justification, the apostles, elders, and the entire church selected representatives to accompany Paul and Barnabas to Antioch with a letter confirming the council’s decision. The church in Antioch was encouraged and strengthened by this news, finding unity in Christ alone.

With Congress beginning the negotiations process for the 2025 appropriations bills (the 12 bills which annually fund the government), the ERLC authored the letter to express its desire for both the House and Senate appropriations committees to consider several pro-life policy areas during the process. 

The three pro-life policy priorities outlined in the letter include:

• Retaining and expanding existing baseline pro-life protections
• Ensuring conscience protections remain steadfast
• Resisting any expansion of taxpayer funding for IVF and establishing baseline ethical standards for its practice

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Selecting the right insurance plan is the first way to save money, says Harold Roe, a Nashville based insurance consultant. Consumers tend to seek insurance policies with low deductibles and high premiums. But generally, savings come through the opposite approach: buying insurance with high deductibles and low premiums, paired with a health savings account that enables tax-free spending on health care.

Roe cited as an example an employer he worked with recently. Employees could choose between a health plan with a $1,000 family deductible and a plan with a $6,000 family deductible. The high-deductible plan had a $10,000 annual out-of-pocket maximum for a family compared with a $3,000 maximum for the lower-deductible plan.

“The vast majority of the employees are enrolled in the [low-deductible] plan even though it would take $13,720 in claims or more for it to be superior financially to the high-deductible health plan,” Roe said. “We know statistically that less than 10 percent of the population in a given plan year will hit that level of claims, yet most people still opt for the low deductible and low out-of-pocket maximums because they have not been educated about health plan math and its particular variables.”

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Thom Rainer says church decline happens gradually and then all of a sudden.

Three common “gradually, but then all of a sudden” moments occur in churches every week in increasing numbers. The first of these wake-up calls was simply the decline in attendance. The pandemic exacerbated the numerical declines, but it did not cause them. A church with 432 attending wakes up, and over half the congregation is gone.

Second, related to the attendance decline is a financial decline. Fewer attendees are directly correlated to lower giving. For a season, many of the higher givers can keep the church financially afloat, but when they leave or die, the church’s financial health deteriorates rapidly.

It is the second “gradually, then all of a sudden” wake-up call.

The third of these moments relates to the physical facility of churches. It is common for churches to neglect the upkeep of the buildings and grounds. When money is tight, reserve funding for capital needs gets neglected first. The building deteriorates gradually, but then, suddenly, a part of the roof collapses. Or the HVAC system shuts down. Or the parking lot has so many potholes that it is unsafe for vehicles and those walking to and from their cars.

Yet the U.S. health care system applies the greatest pinch to workers at the salary levels pastors often receive.

“The lowest-end corporate people” are suffering most, said Harold Roe, a health care benefits consultant in Nashville and co-founder of Employee Prosperity Partners, an organization that works with employers to increase employee wellness.

Roe suggests that independent brokers might be helpful for people to search for the best health care option for their family.

Independent consultants can be found through the website of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals or by Googling “employee benefits consultants near me.”

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In front of an Olympic venue, her phone camera hovers over the Olympic pin. The link appears and she selects her language, scans the landing page, and then decides she’d like to chat live with someone. Hesitatingly, she types “Hello” and waits.

From there, a conversation starts, diving into the “Who am I” question she and so many people grapple with today. 

Thousands of people from across the globe will descend on Paris for the Olympics. The IMB is looking for digital responders who might be able to point to the answer. Learn more at IMB.com.

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Tennessee pastor Adam Dooley says Jesus’ death on the cross is a reason for believers to be a part of a local church.

The book of Hebrews reads like a sermon about the sacrificial work of Jesus on the cross, with a main point of emphasis on the access we have to God the Father through Christ the Son. Hebrews 10:19 says we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus. As a result, we are told to hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering (Hebrews 10:23). In other words, individual believers faithfully worship the Lord because Jesus made it possible.

Immediately after assuring that God invites all Christians into His presence, the writer of Hebrews admonishes the faithful to gather in local churches in order to worship God together. Doing so motivates us to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).

Believers should not forsake our assembling together with other believers (Hebrews 10:25). The progression here is instructive. Because God welcomes our individual access to His presence, the right response is to gather corporately as a unified body in order to magnify His grace toward us.

Arkansas, Texas, Kentucky and other states are dealing with the aftermath of strong storms that killed almost two dozen people and affected thousands of families.

Send Relief is working to provide help to those who need it most.

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The Supreme Court is expected to rule on a Texas case centered on whether or not existing federal law prohibiting individuals perpetuating domestic violence from possessing firearms.

The defendant, Zackey Rahimi, was subject to a civil protective order in Texas after an alleged assault on his ex-girlfriend. The order prohibited him from possessing firearms under a federal law that has been in place since 1996. However, Texas police later found Rahimi in possession of several guns following his involvement in five separate shootings, leading to an indictment under federal law.

Rahimi argued that this existing federal law violates the Second Amendment.

The federal government argued that the Second Amendment does not protect the right of individuals convicted of domestic abuse to possess guns due to safety concerns for the women and children that may be harmed as a result.

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We know we should pray, but when we struggle, it isn’t how we feel that will make the difference. It is our faith, rather than our feelings, that brings us back to prayer. 

Feelings, unfortunately, can betray or mislead us. James reminds us to, “…ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord” (James 1:6-7). Our feelings of doubt are like unpredictable ocean waves, leaving us with the unwanted condition of believing and doubting simultaneously. We are like a man driving a car with his foot on the gas and the brake at the same time. 

The question for us, then, is: How can we build our faith? The answer is found in Paul’s counsel to the Roman church, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Strengthening your faith may be as simple as adding more Bible reading to your daily devotional schedule. Reading Scripture with a heart open to the voice of God builds an “on ramp” for prayer. 

Once your spirit is preconditioned by the Word of God, you’ll find it much easier to pray. That’s what Jesus promised in His last formal training with His disciples. He permanently united prayer and Scripture when He said, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7). 

In 1986, Congress passed the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), which ensured that hospitals could not deny emergency care to individuals due to an inability to pay, requiring them to treat and/or stabilize all patients.

• Originally, EMTALA was designed to ensure hospitals that receive Medicare funding provide emergency care to stabilize patients for transfer to another hospital, regardless of ability to pay.
• The law specifically provides that both the mother and the “unborn child” are viewed as patients who must be stabilized and cared for. In extreme cases where the mother’s life is at risk, an abortion may be provided under EMTALA where there is no other option.

The Biden administration is attempting to overturn Idaho’s pro-life law by arguing it violates EMTALA. However, both laws seek to protect and safeguard life; the Biden administration is attempting to pit these two laws against one another.

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Jeff Strickland is working to help plant The Fields Church in Westfield, Indiana, just north of Indianapolis. The city famous for fast cars is in great spiritual need.

Strickland is asking believers to pray that he and the church planting team are bold as they share the good news with their neighbors.

He says they need God’s help to provide stamina and perseverance in the work. Let’s pray with these folks as they plant The Fields Church.

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Southern Seminary professor Jason Thacker says believers must flip the script when it comes to the abortion debate following the Roe vs. Wade decision. Thacker writes, 

“Many pro-life advocates rightly recognize that the abortion debate often comes down to a particular question: is the preborn child actually a human being?  At the core of, most if not all, contentious debates in society is this fundamental question of what it means to be human. In the abortion debate, we see this question framed often as asking if the fetus in the womb is truly human and thus deserving of our respect and protection. 

“One vital aspect of flipping the script in this debate is pursuing richer engagement with the robust biblical, theological, and philosophical principles that undergird our Christian pro-life ethic. This necessarily entails understanding and articulating reasoned and robust arguments for the dignity and inestimable value of every human being, no matter the stage of development or location.”

Thacker serves as a research fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission.

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The bill becomes law upon Republican Gov. Jeff Landry’s signature, which is expected, further regulating mifepristone and misoprostol as Schedule IV controlled substances, on par with various sedatives, pain pills, and depression and anxiety drugs with a low potential for abuse and dependence.

Prescriptions for mifepristone and misoprostol are already illegal in Louisiana, as is abortion, with only limited exceptions related to the expectant mother’s health. Currently, unlawful possession of Schedule IV drugs in Louisiana is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment of one to five years, according to the law.

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A missionary couple with roots in Missouri are dead after being killed gang members in Haiti, policy say. The families of Davy and Natalie Lloyd are asking believers to pray for them as they grieve.

The missions organization Missions for Haiti says the Lloyds were leaving a church meeting earlier this week when they were ambushed by a gang of three trucks full of people.

The organization’s website says they work to serve children in the country.

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On this Memorial Day, we hear from a former soldier who served with those paying the ultimate price to protect the freedoms Americans share.

Chief Warrant Officer Anthony “Tony” Prescott can’t forget the evening of August 7, 2015. At 10:15 p.m., when a Taliban suicide bomber breached the gate of Camp Integrity, a small coalition base near Kabul, Afghanistan, Prescott was among the first on the scene.

The soldier in front of Prescott was killed. Shrapnel from the explosion injured Prescott’s face and hands, and the blast ruptured his eardrums. Despite his injuries, Prescott engaged the enemy heroically, as did many others.

Following the attack, Prescott worked for four days straight – without sleep – to help find whoever assisted the insurgents with the attack. As a counterintelligence officer, he wrote the operations plan that led to the capture of the person who provided the insurgents with access to the base. His dedication and expertise were crucial in preventing further attacks and saving lives.

The size estimate of the Greenfield tornado could increase as National Weather Service investigators continue to survey damage, reported The Weather Channel.

The storms were fast and mostly hit rural areas, said Iowa Disaster Relief director Gared Schaffer.

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Pulling off Vacation Bible School (VBS) for 700 children is a daunting challenge for most churches. Pulling off VBS for 700 children during community upheaval is not just challenging, it is practically impossible.

But Anna Yumnam* and her team from TMG Bible Church* in Manipur, a state in northeast India, managed to accomplish the seemingly impossible in June 2023.

This was Yumnam’s first year as the church’s children’s ministry director. She expected hurdles of course, but perhaps not trials of this intensity.

Just one month before the VBS, community conflicts had begun to erupt between two ethnic groups in the state of Manipur. While the situation was fairly contained in early June, people in the area were on edge. The government suspended the internet in the entire state, leaving everyone in a communications dark hole. Colleges and schools in the state capital were shut. In some regions, neighbors began turning against each other.

In the town where TMG Bible Church is located, the situation remained relatively peaceful, but not having access to the internet was a huge obstacle for the team organizing the VBS.

This was the church’s fourth year running the Lifeway VBS program. They said they didn’t want the year to pass without the children learning solid biblical truths through VBS.

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In the Baptist Press toolbox, Scott McConnell writes about some things that will immediately help discipleship in your church.

Praying for courage

Another element of prayer is a strong predictor of spiritual growth: Praying for the courage to stand up for Jesus. This question is not in the core assessment or a specific discipleship signpost. This practice tells a broader story.

There is a mental aspect to following Christ that often is more difficult than actions or beliefs themselves. Praying for courage is a request for the desire to say “it is worth it to follow Christ” in every circumstance.

Spending time praising God

Personally setting aside time for private worship, praise, or thanksgiving to God more often has the fifth most significant impact on spiritual maturity.

We often think about the Bible-reading part of a quiet time with God and listening to Him. But another essential element is to personally praise and thank God for who He is and what He is doing. This is, after all, a relationship. While we do ask Him for things, we also should intentionally enjoy Him and put that into words.

Designating mifepristone and misoprostol as Schedule IV controlled substances is on par with various sedatives, pain pills and depression and anxiety drugs with a low potential for abuse and dependence.

The Senate’s approval of the amended bill, on the chamber’s May 22 docket, would make Louisiana the first state to designate as controlled substances the drugs used in combination to induce abortion, and for other pregnancy-related conditions including managing miscarriages and inducing labor.

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More than 500 pregnant women and new moms crowded Clinton Church in Clinton, Maryland  May 11 for a Community Baby Shower and Resource Fair. The church linked arms with one of its favorite long-time partners, MedStar Health of Southern Maryland, for the win-win event.

In addition to the needed resources, the church also used the opportunity to build bridges with its community and offer care and prayer support. A prayer room was open near the front, and the church’s outreach team was throughout the building, chatting with moms, encouraging them, giving out tracts, and sharing with those they met as they felt led. Two young women made professions of faith.

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The Bible describes itself as a special book, says seminary leaders David Dockery and Malcolm Yarnell.

Even before the canonization of the sacred texts, importance was attached to the prophetic and apostolic writings. Moses wrote “all the words of the Lord” in the “covenant scroll.” Joshua’s farewell address was written “in the book of the law of God.” Samuel spoke words about the manner of the kingdom and “wrote them on a scroll, which he placed in the presence of the Lord.” Jesus repeatedly appealed to the authoritative Scriptures. Similarly, Paul and the apostles thought of the scrolls as the “very words of God.”

Jesus Himself declared that Scripture is the Word of God which “cannot be broken.” Similarly, the apostles noted it is “the prophetic word strongly confirmed” which the prophets and apostles wrote, because these words were spoken from God as the writers “were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” The Bible itself thus acknowledges that the prophetic-apostolic word is God’s Word written. Without the sacred writings there would be no Holy Scripture and therefore no Word of God available to us.

God’s revelation of Himself

The Bible affirms God has made Himself known in a variety of ways. Thankfully, God has not abandoned us to our own devices but has manifested Himself to us. We know Him not due to our seeking Him, but because He has made Himself known to us. God has acted and spoken in history. The word “revelation” means an uncovering, a removal of the veil, a disclosure of what was previously not known.

All of that is found in God’s Word. Read the full piece from Yarnell and Dockery at Baptist Press.

Since 2019, Boy Scouts of America has experienced a significant decline in membership, losing over half of its members, influenced by policy changes, a sex abuse scandal, and COVID-19. In contrast, Trail Life has grown steadily, with over 1,200 troops and nearly 60,000 members across the United States.

Trail Life emphasizes a Biblical approach to scouting, focusing on boys' development within a Christian framework. 

Highland Church in Merdian, Mississippi was one of the first to adopt Trail Life, seeking a biblically-based scouting program. Pastor David Hopkins supports the program, highlighting its positive impact on both boys and men in the church community. 

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A Lifeway Research study of both U.S. Protestant pastors and churchgoers found most in both groups believe it’s OK to miss church occasionally for a kid’s game or travel sporting event, but those in the pews are more lax on the issue than those behind the pulpit.

More than 1 in 3 U.S. Protestant pastors (36 percent) say it’s never OK to skip a weekly worship service for kids’ games or travel sporting events, but almost 3 in 5 (58 percent) see at least some allowance for missing in those circumstances. Around 3 in 10 (29 percent) believe it’s acceptable once or twice a year. A quarter (26 percent) say a few times a year, while 3 percent say many times a year. Another 6 percent say they aren’t sure.

Pastors 65 and older (43 percent) are among the most likely to say it’s never acceptable. Evangelical pastors are more likely than mainline pastors to say never (40 percent v. 28 percent). Those at the smallest churches, less than 50 in attendance, are also more likely than pastors at the largest churches, 250 or more, to believe skipping for sports is never OK (38 percent v. 24 percent).

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The discovery of a former branch of the Nile offers clues to the construction of the pyramids and Egyptian culture when the Israelites were in bondage, Southern Baptist Archeologist Jim Parker told Baptist Press.

Using satellite imagery, geophysical surveys and sediment samples in the Nile Valley, researchers led by University of North Carolina Wilmington Professor Eman Ghoneim made the discovery announced May 16 in the Communications Earth and Environment journal. While experts have suspected for some time that the Nile had shifted, the new research is the first confirmation of the former riverbed.

The abandoned branch, about three miles west of the current Nile’s location, would have flowed between 2686 BC and 1649 BC, researchers said, overlapping with when the pyramid were erected between 3000 and 2300 BC, as well as during the Israelites’ enslavement that began in the late 1800s BC and continued about 400 years.

The Pentecost Sunday weekend event chiefly sponsored by Francey’s multisite Oceans Church in Orange County and supported by Brown’s 14-campus Sandals Church in Southern California drew support and participation from 300 churches across the state, according to BaptizeCalifornia.com.

Baptize California was the largest baptism in the state’s history, Brown said, exceeding the May 2023 BaptizeSoCal sponsored by Oceans Church, and the July 2023 Pirates Cove baptism sponsored by Harvest Church, Greg Laurie’s pastorate.

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They can laugh now, three years after the fire that destroyed their youth building, about things like the name of the ministry: Ignite.

“We’ve since rebranded,” said Phil Spann, the longtime student minister at Southside Baptist Church in Paris, Texas.

Despite the challenges from losing a facility, Spann says God has been faithful.

The results are more than just increased participation. Southside has seen a harvest. The recent fruit of the student ministry includes salvations and baptisms. During the last two years, the church has celebrated more than 60 baptisms. Norris said they’ve been predominantly children and youth. He rejoices in the 34 decisions for Christ made at camp two years ago, and a similar number last summer.

Spann knows the Southside youth ministry has lived through an example of his favorite Scripture passage, Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

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Cole Rogers said he picked up numerous new ideas during the 2024 Collegiate Leadership Summit last week near Memphis, Tennessee. 

But Rogers, collegiate ministry specialist at Belmont University, said that wasn’t his biggest take-away from the three-day event.

Instead, Rogers said that being reminded that college ministry is about “being centered on prayer more than trying to plan things and get down all the details” is what had the biggest impact on him during the event, which was held this year at First Baptist Church, Collierville. 

The Collegiate Leadership Summit, held every three years, is sponsored byBaptist Collegiate Network — an organization of state convention collegiate leaders.

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Under the plan offered by the city, the members of Great Commission Baptist Church would pay the collective fine (150,000 Mexican Pesos) to the very Roman Catholic community leaders who forced them from their homes and property, CSW said, and would continue to suffer religious liberty restrictions imposed under the Law of Uses and Customs.

Three families would still be banned from their homes, and the Roman Catholic community leaders would face no penalties.

The displaced families, initially sheltered in the Municipal Presidency building, have been moved to another location and are dependent on community donations and aid from local churches for food and water.

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Churchgoers are more interested than involved in prison ministry, but most say they’d be fine sharing a street or a pew with someone who has been incarcerated.

A Lifeway Research study sponsored by multiple prison ministries surveyed U.S. Protestant churchgoers’ actions and attitudes toward inmates and those who have previously been in jail, prison or a juvenile facility.

One in 4 churchgoers (25 percent) have been involved in ministry among the incarcerated, formerly incarcerated or their families, including 4 percent who say they are currently participating. Additionally, 10 percent say they have been involved in prison ministry activities or training.

When asked about specific examples of ministry, at least half of churchgoers said they had no experience in serving the incarcerated or their families. They are most active in assisting families with loved ones in prison. 

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Every human being who has ever walked on this planet has been wronged by someone. As difficult as it is to be mistreated by others, it is often more difficult to forgive others for what they’ve done to us. We may even think that reconciliation circumvents justice. We can learn from Joseph’s story in Genesis 45. God is directing our lives for His purposes, even when we experience mistreatment by others.

We, too, can learn to allow God to work in and through our relationships. We can rejoice over renewed relationships. We can affirm God’s plans for others’ lives. We can extend forgiveness. Acknowledging God’s sovereignty helps us seek reconciliation with others.

International Mission Board trustees approved 83 fully funded missionaries for appointment during their May 15-16 meeting. While gathered near Richmond, Virginia, trustees also affirmed numerous reports from around the world detailing Southern Baptists’ efforts in advancing the Gospel among the lost.

Resident David Grissom experienced the heaviness of the effects of a May 3 flood as water began to fill his home. Grissom said he was in shock at the amount of water surrounding the house.

Delaware Raceway Ministry (DRM) is running strong after 31 years. And though the ministry techniques have evolved, the emphasis remains the same: sowing seeds, building relationships and sharing Jesus.

Florida Baptist Disaster Relief teams aid tornado victims In Tallahassee; Storms keep Missouri Disaster Relief active; Okla. tornado relief continues, prayer support needed; Texans on Mission volunteers keep hope afloat.

Bridging generations: The essential role of mentorship in the church

A statue of the late Billy Graham set to stand inside the U.S. Capitol to represent North Carolina will be unveiled this week in a ceremony.

As the security crisis in Haiti continues, the humanitarian aid group Haiti Family Care Network is urging U.S. Christian donors to refrain from worsening the situation by donating to orphanages and to redirect their efforts instead toward initiatives helping parents support their children.

As William Wilberforce, the 18th and 19th century member of Parliament, fought for the abolition of slavery, he also led a “manners” crusade in England. He saw a direct correlation in the public arena between the way citizens treated and spoke to each other, including toward those trapped in slavery, and what shaped their personal attitude.

Episode 616

Disaster Relief care for those affected by tornadoes, flooding; Most Americans don’t see spiritual benefit with AI; Wilberforce on civility

Disaster Relief teams cares for those affected by tornadoes, flooding; Most Americans don’t see spiritual benefit with AI; Wilberforce on civility

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us...

Episode 615

Reaching the next generation for Christ; Religious persecution increasing in Africa, Middle East, south Asia; Caring for your family finances

Reaching the next generation for Christ; Religious persecution increasing in Africa, Middle East, south Asia; Caring for your family finances

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us se...

Episode 614

Christian group advocating for believers in persecution; SBC reports growth in baptism, attendance; Getting your house in order

Christian group advocating for believers in persecution; SBC reports growth in baptism, attendance; Getting your house in order

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven reasons the resurrection...

Episode 613

Charlotte church grieves with city police force; Barber calls graduates to Gospel mission; Some things in ministry aren’t as they seem

Charlotte church grieves with city police force; Barber calls graduates to Gospel mission; Some things in ministry aren’t as they seem

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven reasons th...

Episode 612

Florida’s Supreme Court upholds abortion ban; New Orleans seminarian leads neighborhood outreach; Christ brings unity in the church

Florida’s Supreme Court upholds abortion ban; New Orleans seminarian leads neighborhood outreach; Christ brings unity in the church

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven reasons the re...

Episode 611

Chinese couple once hostile to the Gospel, come to faith and lead many others to Jesus; 

Birmingham couple leads hundreds to Christ; VBS gives families an introduction to the local church; Learning how to pray

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven reasons the resurrection brings joy to Christians. Here are ...

Episode 610

Chaplain sharing the Gospel with workers at Churchill Downs; Believers facing persecution in Mexico; Defining womanhood

Chaplain serves those working behind the scenes at the Kentucky Derby; Believers facing harsh persecution in Mexico; Understanding womanhood in a confused culture

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gi...

Episode 608

17 states sue EEOC over abortion mandate; Texas church celebrates first baptism in 7 years; Study and serving are key in intergenerational ministry

States sues Biden Administration over abortion regulation; Texas churches revitalization sparks a community; Tips on connecting generations in a local church

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, sch...

Episode 607

Missionary family’s child share the hope of God; Churches being planted across America; Prayer, authenticity bring joy to the church

Missionary kid obeying God’s call to share the Good News; Church planting efforts seeing fruit across US; Chuck Lawless says sometimes church ‘is just fun’

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarn...

Episode 605

Graduate Sunday an opportunity for launch; Anonymous prayer warrior led Steve Gaines mom to Christ; Creating missions opportunities in the local church

Graduate Sunday an opportunity for launch; Anonymous prayer warrior led Steve Gaines mom to Christ; Creating missions opportunities in the local church

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, schol...

Episode 604

Send Network trains 200 church planters; Pastor freed then reimprisoned in Myanmar; Maintaining your witness in an election year

Pastors, church planters learn together at Send Network training event; Pastor freed, then jailed in Myanmar; Holding on your witness during a tense election cycle

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm ...

Episode 603

Evangelicals leaders speak out on aid packages to Israel, Ukraine; Biden Administration changes to Title IX will hurt women’s sports, experts say; Tips on sharing your faith

Evangelical leaders speak with House Speaker Mike Johnson; Title IX changes will harm women’s college sports, experts say; God helps believers share their faith

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agricu...

Episode 601

ERLC hosting webinar on election year issues; Georgia students being mentored by local churches; Missionaries return near home to carry the Gospel

ERLC hosts webinar featuring Brent Leatherwood and Dan Darling; Ga. college students grow as disciples of Jesus; Asian missionaries take the Gospel back to their home region

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And...

Episode 600

Gen Z Bible reading is up; COVID shutdowns take toll on students, education; SCOTUS rules in Idaho gender transgender case

SendNetwork reaching Hispanic community; Arkansas DR welcomes therapy dog; Most changes churches because of address change

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven reasons the resurr...

 Episode 588

LifeWise Academy partnering with school to teach Bible classes; Pickleball brings fun on and off the court; Jesus is the church’s one foundation

Public schools partner with LifeWise for off-site Bible classes; Churches using pickleball for fellowship, community; Remembering Jesus is the church’s true foundation

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, i...

 Episode 587

Traffickers target large sporting events; Spurgeon Library celebrates new chapter; Tips on kindness, wisdom during election cycle

Sporting events attract traffickers; Spurgeon Library unveils new artifacts; Maintaining Christian witness in an election year

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

Related Episodes

Billy Graham statue unveiled in U.S. Capitol; IMB trustees approve 83 missionaries; Laziness does not lead to godliness

May 17, 2024

Four weeks after they became trapped in Port-au-Prince, two staff members of Louisiana Reach Haiti (LRH) have made it safely to the ministry’s Children’s Village in Cap Haitien. Now that wildfires are under control in the northern panhandle of Texas, what about the cattle? Texas is home to some 11 million head of cattle, more than 85% located in the Panhandle, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. And, in our Toolbox, scholar Malcolm Yarnell gives us seven re...

 Episode 585

Churches celebrate Baptism Sunday, Gospel impact in Kenya; Find Jesus in the Scriptures

Churches baptize new believers on a special Sunday; Disciples being made by missionaries in Kenya; Look to the Scriptures to find Jesus

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

BaptistPress.com

International Mission Board

Transcript