Authentic - How Dry I Am

    I hope you’ve noticed our changing schedule.
Tonight we don’t have any or our regular rehearsals. The AWANA Recognition
service will take place in the Worship
Center from 6:30 –
8:00pm. There will be food, inflatables and a great time to discover what’s
been going on with the spiritual development of our kids! I hope you plan to
attend.

This Sunday there will be a drama during our
service so we will have rehearsal for that at 8:15 in the Worship Center
right after the AWANA recognition. Also this Sunday the CHOIR will sing HOLY
LIKE YOU! I hope to see everyone in the loft at 8:20 – just like normal! It’s
going to be a great day.

 

I know with our change in schedule we get out of
sync, perhaps out of the habit of fulfilling activities or responsibilities
that may fall into the category ‘spiritual acts of worship’. For some, their
attendance on Wednesday night is not just about preparing for Sunday. It’s not
just about fun and fellowship or fulfilling a commitment. Romans 12:1 – 2 talks
of giving your bodies to God as a living sacrifice. It goes on to say this is a
reasonable act of worship. For some, attendance at church on Wednesday and
Sunday is part of their reasonable act of worship. And rightly so, the Bible
tells us we should come together in worship at church. It tells us we should
invest our lives in the lives of others. As a church our official times of
gathering have primarily been Sunday’s and Wednesday’s. These are the days we have
set apart for this very purpose. Now that summer is upon us we’ve entered that
first week of schedule oddities where we don’t have our regular CAM worship preparations on Wednesday night. With this
change there is risk. We risk getting out of the habit of fulfilling one our
spiritual acts of worship. We risk laying aside a spiritual discipline and
replacing it with the mundane activity of life. We risk losing momentum in our
walk with Christ together in the Christian Arts Ministry as our church focuses
its attention on the development of other areas of ministry.

I want to encourage you in three things:

1. These next 4 weeks
   purpose in your heart to read ONE passage of Scripture every day, 5 days a
   week. For this I like Proverbs, Philippians and Matthew – choose a book
   and read a chapter a day for the next several weeks.
2. On Sunday – Lead
   worship where you are. This Sunday the choir will lead from the loft. Even
   without our regular Wednesday rehearsal be in place this Sunday on time
   and ready to lead. When you’re not on the platform, when you’re in the
   congregation, arrive for the services on time and lead well from your seat
   in the Worship
   Center. The passion
   of your expressions of worship to God during our services from within the
   congregation is a powerful testimony to God and those around you. You can
   lead others even when you’re not on the platform. Also – if you’re out of
   town on a family vacation visit another church. See what God is doing
   somewhere else, come back and tell me the tale. It’s amazing to see how
   God is working all over the world.
3. Put June 27^th
   on you calendar, set an alarm and bring someone with you. Will hit the
   ground with both feet running in order to prepare for the new season. I’m
   looking forward to seeing you then.

 

I love and miss you all. I look forward to serving
with you again this Sunday. Keep in touch via email and phone. I would love to
hear from you, about your summer plans and about how God is at work in you and
your family. See you soon.

 

Love
y’all, God Bless,

CHAD

 

Notes to Notice

 

PRAISE TEAM
AUDITIONS

Applications
for Vocal Praise Team Auditions will be available tonight! Vocal Praise Team
members lead worship in a smaller group. They serve in 3 teams of 6 that each
sing for a month then are off for two months. Consistent participation in
Celebration Choir and other CAM Ministries as well as Sunday School and Worship
Services is required. Flexibility is key as well as an ability to keep up with
fast paced changes, a little sight reading and lot of singing by ear. More than
anything a heart for God and a love for people is required. Sign up tonight for
your time to audition!

 

AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May
30^th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I
would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend.
With inflatables, games and food as well as a special service this will be a
great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to
parents who may not really attend church anywhere.

 

Because of this
service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and
Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.

 

SUMMER BREAK

Beginning next
Wednesday night part of CAM will take a 4 week
Wednesday night break! We’ll still lead on Sunday mornings, the choir will
still sing, but our regular rehearsal times will change to give folks a little
breather and to make room for the exciting things taking place throughout the
church. See the schedule below to see how this affects you! Those groups still
meeting on Wednesday are in BOLD.

 

AWANA Recognition

Wednesday – May 30^th –    NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         DRAMA for Sunday will meet @ 8:15 in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 3^rd –           The CHOIR will SING –
“Holy Like You” – Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

End of School

Wednesday – June 6^th –     NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         The BAND & PRAISE TEAM will meet @ 6:30
in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 10^th –         No CHOIR in the LOFT –
Praise Band and Praise Team Only

 

Summer Break

Wednesday – June 13^th –   NO CAM ACTIVITIES, this includes Band and Praise
Teams – We’ll prepare for Sunday on Sunday!

 

Sunday – June 17^th –         The CHOIR will SING –
Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

Vacation Bible School

Wednesday – June 20^th –   NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         The BAND & PRAISE TEAM will meet @ 8:15
in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 24^th –         The CHOIR will SING –
Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

We’ll pick back up on Wednesday night, June 27^th!
I look forward to seeing everyone then! – We’ll be preparing for August 15^th
and laying the foundations for Christmas! Don’t miss it!

 

AUGUST 15^TH
– OPENING DAY

It’s time again
– that’s right, it’s time again for the 3^rd ever, 88^th
annual OPENING DAY! What is Opening Day? It’s that time at the beginning of the
semester we gather everyone in CAM in order to
discover what’s up in the year to come. We celebrate past victories, introduce
new leaders. We preview what lies ahead and spend time in consecration for all
God wants to do in us and through us in the coming season.

 

This year’s
Opening Day will be different than all that came before. We won’t
simply participate. We will lead. We will invite all the Ministry Teams of FBCO to
join us as together we lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ.
It’s a time you won’t want to miss! Be watching here for more details!

 

What:     Opening Day

Who:     ALL OF CAM
& every other Ministry Team

When:    Wednesday, August 15^th – 6:30 –
8:00pm in the Worship
Center

 

STANDARD OF
EXCELLENCE - Humility

Philippians 2:3 – 4 says, “Let nothing be done through
selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others
better than himself.”

 

We believe that true humility is not thinking highly of
yourself and it’s not thinking lowly of yourself. True humility is not thinking
of yourself at all. We will serve. We will follow. We will listen. We will
obey. We will decrease and He will increase not through the force of our will
or the power of our presentation, but because we will fully submit to His
desires with all that we are.

 

 

 

 

 

Order of
Service

Sunday AM – 06-03-07

iFamily | iPromise – The Synergy of Oneness

 

VIDEO | First in Action

 

PRE-SERVICE

CD | Countdown

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Just a Closer Walk with Thee – Bb, BH – 448

 

VIDEO | First in
Action

 

WELCOME

Dr. Roger Ferguson

 

WELCOME MUSIC

I Give You Thanks – E, CHART

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Holy Like You – Db, BT – 185

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Single Minded – D, CHART

 

DRAMA

iFamily Talk Show | iPromise

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

The Family Prayer Song – G, MSPW – 54

 

MESSAGE

Dr. Roger Ferguson

 

INVITATION

The Family Prayer Song – G, MSPW – 54

 

OFFERING | Student
PowerPoint | Child Dedication (?)

 

Presentation of New Members

Close

I Give You Thanks – E, CHART

 

VIDEO | First in
Action

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Authentic - End of Season

  I don’t know if this happens to you, but for me sometimes
our seasons run together. We go from one big event to another followed by
another rehearsal and another big event. I love it! Our mission is significant.
Our task is important, our role on this team critical. Every Sunday you and I
get together to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ and it
is an honor to serve with you.

As I look back over this past season I’m reminded
of all the good things God has done. This time last year we were beginning
preparations for Christmas. By December several people were saved and several
new people involved in leading others through the ministry of Christian Arts.
We stepped into the New Year and led the church to Value the Vision. From there
we went into Easter. Where again more people were encouraged by the gospel and
more came to a saving knowledge of Christ. In the midst of all these things you
grew as a Believer. You and your family faced challenges you overcame. You discovered
things about your own life that needed attention and as you prayed about those
things and studied Scripture you have slowly learned how to overcome them.

In this season some of our number have faced
tragedy through the loss of family or friends or perhaps through personal
battles yet to be won. For these friends this may be the end of the season, but
it’s not the end of the struggle. And so we go on together to the next big
event, to the next step in ministry. Whether this past year our personal battles
have been lost or won we know what our ultimate victory will be and who will
bring it about. And so, while we may be at the end of a season the journey
continues.

We’re not finished yet. There’s more work to be
done. Personally we each have things in our lives God wants to teach us, skills
we need to master, temptations to be overcome, and demons to be driven out. In
ministry together there are still people around us who neither know nor believe
in the saving power of Jesus Christ. And so our mission continues. We press on
toward the mark for the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus.
This is a journey I’m glad to take with you. This is a mission we willingly
accept because we know the outcome will be glory to God and life and joy for us!
This is a time to reflect on all God has done and to prepare for all that lies
ahead.

In the next four weeks we will take leave of our regular
schedule. You’ll find details of what that looks like below. I encourage you to
make the most of it. Celebrate the good things God has done in this past
season. Don’t fill this time with superfluous activity, but rest and invest
your time preparing for the season that is to come. We will come back and hit
the ground running with one goal in mind – to lead people become fully devoted
followers of Christ. I pray and am confident that when we return to our regular
schedule we will all be ready, because God has great things in store for us. And
I don’t want any of us to miss a thing! I can’t wait to discover them with you
all!

 

Love
y’all, God Bless,

CHAD

 

Notes to Notice

 

PRAISE TEAM
AUDITIONS

Applications
for Vocal Praise Team Auditions will be available tonight! Vocal Praise Team
members lead worship in a smaller group. They serve in 3 teams of 6 that each
sing for a month then are off for two months. Consistent participation in
Celebration Choir and other CAM Ministries as well as Sunday School and Worship
Services is required. Flexibility is key as well as an ability to keep up with
fast paced changes, a little sight reading and lot of singing by ear. More than
anything a heart for God and a love for people is required. Sign up tonight for
your time to audition!

 

AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May
30^th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I
would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend.
With inflatables, games and food as well as a special service this will be a
great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to
parents who may not really attend church anywhere.

Because of this
service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and
Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.

SUMMER BREAK

Beginning next
Wednesday night part of CAM will take a 4 week
Wednesday night break! We’ll still lead on Sunday mornings, the choir will
still sing, but our regular rehearsal times will change to give folks a little
breather and to make room for the exciting things taking place throughout the
church. See the schedule below to see how this affects you! Those groups still
meeting on Wednesday are in BOLD.

AWANA Recognition

Wednesday – May 30^th –    NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         The BAND & PRAISE TEAM will meet @ 8:15
in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 3^rd –           The CHOIR will SING –
“Holy Like You” – Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

End of School

Wednesday – June 6^th –     NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         The BAND & PRAISE TEAM will meet @ 6:30
in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 10^th –         No CHOIR in the LOFT –
Praise Band and Praise Team Only

 

Summer Break

Wednesday – June 13^th –   NO CAM ACTIVITIES, this includes Band and Praise
Teams – We’ll prepare for Sunday on Sunday!

 

Sunday – June 17^th –         The CHOIR will SING –
Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

Vacation Bible School

Wednesday – June 20^th –   NO CHOIR or INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE

                                         The BAND & PRAISE TEAM will meet @ 8:15
in the Worship Center

 

Sunday – June 24^th –         The CHOIR will SING –
Regular Sunday AM Rehearsal Times

 

We’ll pick back up on Wednesday night, June 27^th!
I look forward to seeing everyone then! – We’ll be preparing for August 15^th
and laying the foundations for Christmas! Don’t miss it!

AUGUST 15^TH
– OPENING DAY

It’s time again
– that’s right, it’s time again for the 3^rd ever, 88^th
annual OPENING DAY! What is Opening Day? It’s that time at the beginning of the
semester we gather everyone in CAM in order to
discover what’s up in the year to come. We celebrate past victories, introduce
new leaders. We preview what lies ahead and spend time in consecration for all
God wants to do in us and through us in the coming season.

This year’s
Opening Day will be different than all that came before. We won’t
simply participate. We will lead. We will invite all the Ministry Teams of FBCO to
join us as together we lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ.
It’s a time you won’t want to miss! Be watching here for more details!

What:     Opening Day

Who:     ALL OF CAM
& every other Ministry Team

When:    Wednesday, August 15^th – 6:30 – 8:00pm
in the Worship Center

 

STANDARD OF
EXCELLENCE - Faithfulness

James 5:12 says, “…let
your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’, ‘no’, lest you fall into judgment.”

We believe that members
of the Christian Arts Ministry can be found in every other ministry of the
church. We serve as Sunday School teachers, Student leaders, Pre-school and
Children’s Workers, in FAITH, Discipleship and in every other ministry of our
church. Regardless of where you participate or where you serve be fully
committed to the ministries you have chosen. If you are a member of the
Celebration Choir don’t miss a rehearsal or a Sunday morning. If you serve as
an Usher or Sunday School Teacher make certain you’re always there and on time.
Your effectiveness as a servant leader in any ministry is only as strong as
your faithfulness to that commitment.

 

 

Order of
Service

Sunday AM – 05-27-07

iFamily | iLove – Preparing for Marriage

 

VIDEO | First in Action

 

PRE-SERVICE

CD | Countdown

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

You Will Be Our God – A, CHART

 

VIDEO | First in
Action

 

WELCOME

Dr. Roger Ferguson

 

WELCOME MUSIC

Redeemed, How I Love to Proclaim It – Ab, BH – 544

VIDEO | America

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

America the Beautiful with Tag – Bb - CHART

Ancient Words – G, CHART

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Agnus Dei – A, CHART

MESSAGE

Dr. Roger Ferguson

 

INVITATION

The Family Prayer Song – Unsure of Key or location

 

OFFERING | Children’s
Video | Child Dedication (1^st)

 

Presentation of New Members

Close

You Will Be Our God – A, CHART

VIDEO | First in
Action

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Authentic - theScore Noir

So my family and I have returned this week from Disney all fat and happy. It was a great trip. Thanks for letting us go. It was great to see you all on Sunday morning. I miss you when I’m gone. Everyone did a great job Sunday AM. The choir special was simply amazing! Thanks, Jim, for rehearsing the choir last week. Thanks Lori, Betty, Band, IE and Choir for pouring your heart into a lamenting praise of God!

This Monday & Tuesday I went from one Magic Kingdom to another – we had a staff retreat at Tulakogee – needless to say I’m a bit behind on my writing, hence the cause for my verbosity here today and the colorless noir of this page.

While at Tulakogee we talked and prayed through God’s direction for the church from now till then end of 2007. We began to dream through 2008. As we discussed plans, considered possibilities and plotted strategies we were constantly reminded of the privilege it is to serve a people who have a genuine love for God and for each other. I’ve never served in a place where the people were more receptive to God’s leadership. Thank you for making the service of your staff here effective…more than that, thanks for making it fun.

I want to remind you of something. Everything rises and falls on leadership. In our church we have two kinds of leaders…Vocational Leaders – that’s your church staff; and Volunteer Leaders – that’s YOU! I call you a volunteer leader because of your participation in CAM. Every week, because of your leadership, the people of FBCO are prompted in worship. John Maxwell says, “Leadership is influence.” He also says that a group of people will never grow beyond the passion, talent, ability, commitment, skill or depth of their leader. You can almost measure it. For example, on a scale of one to ten; ten being the most incredible leader imaginable and one being a person whose heart barely beats; if your passion for God in worship is a FOUR the people you lead in worship will never go beyond a FOUR in their own expression of worship. If you’re an EIGHT they’ll never go beyond an EIGHT. It’s the Law of the Lid. You might think of this as a Leadership Quotient. The people you lead are limited by your Leadership Quotient. Make sense?

With that in mind answer these questions. (These are rhetorical only – please don’t tell me or anyone else your answers. This is intended to be a personal evaluation just for you.)

1.    On a scale of one to ten how would you rate yourself as a lead worshiper?

2.    Think of the best lead worshiper you know personally. On a scale of one to ten how would you rate that person? Who is that person?

3.    On a scale of one to ten how would you rate the worship of an average FBCO church member?



Do your answers tell you something? Here’s what they tell me.

1.    Whether you think highly of yourself or lowly of yourself the answer to number one identifies how you need to grow in the next year. If you think of yourself as a FIVE can you grow into a SIX by the end of the year? Can you make it all the way to SEVEN? What will it take for this growth to happen?

2.    Scripture always speaks of THREE – the Leader & the Learner –that sounds like two…but here’s what I mean. What if you approached the person you identified in question 2 and asked them to LEAD you personally? If they are a TEN and you’re a FIVE and they were willing to invest in you do you think you would grow more quickly as a leader? You bet! Here’s how LEADER + LEARNER = THREE. It’s likely that in someone’s eyes you are much closer to a TEN than they are. What if you invested your life in them? A Leader investing in a Learner who intern invests in someone else. This is the essence of Discipleship.

3.    The answer to this question identifies the Leadership Quotient for the Christian Arts Ministry as a whole. How? Remember, you won’t attract or effectively lead someone with a higher leadership quotient than you. If we rate the worship of an average FBCO church member at FOUR then it’s likely the members in CAM all together average not much higher than a six. It tells a story doesn’t it?



Everything rises and falls on leadership – Whether you’re vocational or volunteer. Whether you are a three or an eight – our church as a whole will never grow beyond the spiritual depth or maturity of its leaders. You are that leader. Lead well. Lead where you are.



Love y’all, God Bless,

CHAD



Notes to Notice



PRAISE TEAM AUDITIONS

Applications for Vocal Praise Team Auditions will be available tonight! Vocal Praise Team members lead worship in a smaller group. They serve in 3 teams of 6 that each sing for a month then are off for two months. Consistent participation in Celebration Choir and other CAM Ministries as well as Sunday School and Worship Services is required. Flexibility is key as well as an ability to keep up with fast paced changes, a little sight reading and lot of singing by ear. More than anything a heart for God and a love for people is required. Sign up tonight for your time to audition!



AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May 30th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend. With inflatables, games and food as well as a special service this will be a great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to parents who may not really attend church anywhere.



Because of this service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.



AUGUST 15TH – OPENING DAY

It’s time again – that’s right, it’s time again for the 3rd ever, 88th annual OPENING DAY! What is Opening Day? It’s that time at the beginning of the semester we gather everyone in CAM in order to discover what’s up in the year to come. We celebrate past victories, introduce new leaders. We preview what lies ahead and spend time in consecration for all God wants to do in us and through us in the coming season.



This year’s Opening Day will be different than all that came before. We won’t simply participate. We will lead. We will invite all the Ministry Teams of FBCO to join us as together we lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. It’s a time you won’t want to miss! Be watching here for more details!



What:    Opening Day

Who:    ALL OF CAM & every other Ministry Team

When:    Wednesday, August 15th – 6:30 – 8:00pm in the Worship Center









STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE - Purity

Matthew 5:8 says, “Pure hearts see God.”



We believe that when we stand before the congregation we must be aware of the fact that people are looking to us to find their way to God. Each week we will prepare as a group, but we must also prepare as individuals. Check your heart daily. See if there is any unconfessed sin or any broken relationships you need to bring before God before you stand to lead. None of us are perfect. But as we lead let’s make certain we are trusting in God’s strength and not our own.

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Authentic - The Wonderful World of Disney

Hope is almost lost. I’m beginning to see large black ears everywhere. Goofy is not the friendly character of cartoons, but a sadistic taskmaster who brainwashes children. One child already shows signs of subversion. I believe the others will soon follow. The adults fear for their lives. One more parking pass, they’re sucking us dry.

Okay…so maybe that description is a little over the top, but as the reality TV show that is the Balthrop and William Family Vacation comes to an end I realize we’ve had the kind of trip that would have made Clark W. Griswold proud. Here at Wally World I’ve not yet punched a Plastic Moose or strapped my dog to the bumper of our car, so I guess things are going pretty well! It really has been a blast. I appreciate the church allowing us time away. I appreciate the in-laws and out-laws who help make a trip like this possible. I appreciate your faithfulness to lead in worship and to prepare for this Sunday both in my presence and my absence.

I’ve been to Disney World several times now. It’s one of my favorite places on earth. I love amusement parks. I’ve been a ride junky for some time now. But I also love a good story and Disney does both extremely well. They create a world where you are immersed in the story. You experience some of the action. You enjoy a good tale and in the process you discover more about yourself and the world around you. Every little girl is a princess, every little boy an action hero. Everything about this place excites the imagination. We’ve walked the parks from early till late. We’re all tired, but we keep waking up ready for more.

As I wander through Disney I begin to notice some things. The lengths they go to in order to insure an enjoyable, immersive experience for everyone are unbelievable. Every detail is thoughtfully considered. They spare no expense to capture my attention in order to tell me a good story. Everyone who works here is happy, servant-hearted, and willing to go the extra mile in order to make our experience a dream-come-true. I’ve been curious about the people who work here so I’ve been talking with them a lot. Some are college students on a paid internship. They earn college credit while serving Pizza at Pizza Planet at MGM Studios, they pick up a few college hours while helping people on and off rides. Some are Senior Adults who point the way to bathrooms. Others are upwardly mobile, career minded individuals trying to make their mark in the world of Disney while some are actors, singers, writers and engineers hoping for their big break. Whatever their motivation they are all pleasant, devoted, well trained and focused on their responsibility.

I went to the Disney web site to find out more about the people who work here. They have an entire site devoted to careers at Disney. You might check it out. http://corporate.disney.go.com/careers/culture.html - On this site you’ll discover their core values. You’ll find how to get a job with Disney. You’ll realize that there are literally a thousand things that can be done and you’ll see the heart behind what they do.

Here’s the part I find remarkable. Ultimately Disney’s primary goal is to separate me from my money. This they do very well. It’s not a very altruistic goal, but it is a practical one. They’re in business for business. This fantastic fantasy world, the way they treat my children, exists to make money. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that. People have to make a living. Why not earn a living entertaining people?

Their website talks of 6 Core Values: Innovation, Quality, Community, Storytelling, Optimism, & Decency. I don’t find anything about profit there, but within these core values the company finds great profit. They are very specific about how Disney Cast Members carry themselves. They want these 6 Core Values to permeate every detail of who they are as a company. Yes, practically their success is determined by the bottom line. But that bottom line is dependant on people from all walks of life, from every country on earth, from every system of belief. These people come together around these 6 Core Values in order to create an entertaining experience for my family. And they do it very well. The Disney Careers website is so specific about how these core values are to be expressed that you can find pages about the ‘Disney Look’. Every Cast Member is required to have a certain ‘look’. Hair styles for men and women are clearly defined. Facial hair is acceptable, but only if worn a certain way. If your character requires a look apart from the Disney standard you must get special permission. Details…details…details…all supporting these core values…all for the sake of entertainment. Companies like Disney define our culture today.

As the church we have a story to tell. We have an experience to offer. We have core values to which we cling and our purpose is much more noble than simply business. We genuinely want to affect people’s lives in a way that changes eternity for them forever. So, why is Disney a bigger force for cultural change in our world today than the church?

I’ll not offer an answer here today. But consider these things – how well do you reflect the core values of the church? Do you know our core values? Are you willing to follow those who lead? Will you fulfill the ministry God has enabled you to do whether I’m in town or not, whether I lead you directly or indirectly? Why do you serve? Is it for you or for Him?

I believe when we as individuals get a grip on the Core Values of Scripture that God will get a grip on us. I believe when God gets a grip on us the church will define the culture rather than culture defining us.

I love and miss you all. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend. This Sunday we’ll sing ‘For Every Mountain’ – it’s a tough one, but you play and sing it well! I’ll see you then!



Love y’all, God Bless,

Chad





Notes to Notice



AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May 30th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend. With inflatables, games and food as well as a special service this will be a great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to parents who may not really attend church anywhere.



Because of this service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.



REHEARSAL!

Tonight Choir Rehearsal will be led by JIM BROWN! Instrumental Ensemble will be lead by RONNIE WILSON!



Praise Team and Praise Band – We will not rehearse this evening. We will get together at 7:45am on Sunday to prepare for Sunday!



ARE YOU IN?

A fully devoted follower is easy to identify. They make healthy choices. They have a healthy appetite for spiritual things – that’s prayer and Bible Study. And they participate in healthy activity – that’s church involvement. Are you involved in Small Group Bible Study? Do you participate in our Worship Services beyond the moments you’re on the platform or serving in the service? If you’re not, you’re missing out. To find out how you can be involved contact me, chad@fbcowasso.org!



YOU MAKE THE CALL

They’re out there, waiting to be asked. People who sing, play instruments, have a little technical knowledge and who are great people to be with. Who could you invite from your Sunday School class this week to be involved in CAM?





RESCUE – the Prayers We Pray



We didn’t take requests last week. These requests are from the week before. Updates, please…

Health Issues

Dolly Mowery – She’s had an ongoing struggle with cancer. Currently she is fighting and infection. The doctors are attempting to get the right combination of medications.

Janet Greene’s Brother, Quentin – surgery in Shawnee

Chad Barnard – Jennifer had a bone scan with negative results

Kathleen Colburn – her mother has had two small strokes and is having health issues

Melissa Tyndall – ongoing health concerns

Pray for each name on the list like this, “Father, you are able to heal. You’ve given us doctors and medicine. You’ve surrounded each of these people with people who love and care for them. Let each person on the list be confident in Your grace. Heal them and let them tell the story of your salvation – not just spiritual, but physical – to those around them.



Spiritual Matters

Lori Thrun’s daughter – salvation

Pray like this, “Dear Jesus, soften her heart. Draw her to Yourself. Let her ask the right questions. Let Lori and Wally give the right answers. Help her understand and believe.”



Praise

Steve K. – Thanks to Carolyn Burd for the food she prepares for us every Sunday AM.



Praise like this, “Heavenly Father, thank you for Carolyn Burd. Bless her and her family. Give me opportunity this week to express my appreciation to her personally. Thank you, God, for the many ways you provide for our needs and for the people through whom you do it. I pray that I will always be grateful for the things you give and that I too would be generous and always ready to serve someone else.”



All these things we pray in Jesus name.

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Authentic - Stop, Think, Lift

“Stop | Think | Lift” My mom used to sell Avon. That was printed on the outside of every box she ordered. I’m not sure what makes a little war paint and smellin’ sauce weigh so much, but evidently the good people at Avon considered it so heavy that I should be warned to watch my back.

I wasn’t impressed with the box. It wasn’t that big. Besides, how much could a little make-up really weigh? So, without stopping or thinking before lifting I grabbed the box to hoist it to my shoulder. I did this only once before it came crashing down in a colorful sweet smelling mess all over my dad’s garage floor. I cleaned it up. I was 11 and for a week I smelled like a girl.

We do this all the time. We’re faced with a challenge and for a whole world of good reasons we believe we’re big enough to handle it on our own. There are warning signs everywhere. I’m not talking about the warning sign that reads, “DANGER! DO NOT PRESS THIS BUTTON” We’ve gotten pretty good at avoiding the obvious danger zones. I’m talking about the signs that say, “Stop | Think | Lift”. Or the ones that say “Watch your back.”

The Bible is full of warning signs. The big lists are what always come to mind first, “Don’t murder, don’t steal, etc, etc…” That’s not what I’m talking about. In the book of James God tells us to watch our mouths because if we can control our mouths we can be perfect people. The book of Proverbs tells us to watch what we watch because where we look tends to be where we end up going. Proverbs also tells us to be mindful of our heart because out of it springs all the issues of life. The Bible tells us to be careful in our relationships, discreet in our business dealings and considerate in how we handle those outside the faith. “Stop | Think | Lift – watch your back” These are very simple warnings for a box of things that represents something we should easily be able to handle. As a matter of fact God knows we’re going to handle these things. He’s not warning us to stay away. The box in your life may not contain anything inherently harmful, wicked or evil. But even a good thing handled in a bad way can cause a mess you may regret later.

So, what challenges do you face today that you’re trying to handle on your own? God has given you strength and ability, talents and experience. He expects you to use these things to face whatever challenge that comes against you. He’s also given you warnings and guidelines. It’s life…handle with care. This week pay close attention to the warning on the label. Watch your mouth…watch what you watch…learn discretion…read the warning signs. In doing so you’ll discover all the good things God’s got packaged up for you!



Love y’all, God Bless,

Chad





Notes to Notice



Come Hang with Me

CALLING ALL CAM MEMBERS! Whether you’re on the Drama Team, in the Choir, play an Instrument, Run a Camera or Decorate things – Wednesday, May 2nd from 6:30 – 8:00pm is for you and a guest! Invite someone to come hang with you and the rest of CAM TONIGHT out in the Hanger. We’ll prepare for Worship, have a great time together and discover what’s coming next in the life of CAM! Plan now to attend and bring someone with you. Don’t miss it!



We’re going with a summery, beach theme – if you’ve gotta grass skirt bring it and we’ll hula hang with you!



When: TONIGHT | Wednesday, May 2nd, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Where: the HANGAR, where the students meet regularly.

Who: Anyone involved in CAM!



We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal at 8:15pm in the Worship Center immediately after come hang with me!



AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May 30th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend. With inflatables, games and food as well as a special service this will be a great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to parents who may not really attend church anywhere.



Because of this service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.



SUNDAY, MAY 6TH – SPECIAL GUEST, CALEB JERNIGAN

You all know Caleb. He’s our Assistant Student Minister and a gifted Lead Worshiper. Sunday, May 6th Caleb will lead our morning and evening services. Caleb has asked for our AM Praise Band and Praise Team to lead with him during the morning service and the PM Praise Band to lead with him during the New Community Service. Celebration Choir and Instrumental Ensemble we’d like for you to have this opportunity to experience worship with your family.



We’ll be back to our ‘normal’ rehearsals and schedule on Wednesday, May 9th & Sunday, May 13th – that Sunday is Mother’s Day! See you then!



ARE YOU IN?

A fully devoted follower is easy to identify. They make healthy choices. They have a healthy appetite for spiritual things – that’s prayer and Bible Study. And they participate in healthy activity – that’s church involvement. Are you involved in Small Group Bible Study? Do you participate in our Worship Services beyond the moments you’re on the platform or serving in the service? If you’re not, you’re missing out. To find out how you can be involved contact me, chad@fbcowasso.org!



YOU MAKE THE CALL

They’re out there, waiting to be asked. People who sing, play instruments, have a little technical knowledge and who are great people to be with. Who could you invite from your Sunday School class this week to be involved in CAM?





RESCUE – the Prayers We Pray



Health Issues

Dolly Mowery – She’s had an ongoing struggle with cancer. Currently she is fighting and infection. The doctors are attempting to get the right combination of medications.

Janet Greene’s Brother, Quentin – surgery in Shawnee

Chad Barnard – Jennifer had a bone scan with negative results

Kathleen Colburn – her mother has had two small strokes and is having health issues

Melissa Tyndall – ongoing health concerns

Pray for each name on the list like this, “Father, you are able to heal. You’ve given us doctors and medicine. You’ve surrounded each of these people with people who love and care for them. Let each person on the list be confident in Your grace. Heal them and let them tell the story of your salvation – not just spiritual, but physical – to those around them.



Spiritual Matters

Lori Thrun’s daughter – salvation

Pray like this, “Dear Jesus, soften her heart. Draw her to Yourself. Let her ask the right questions. Let Lori and Wally give the right answers. Help her understand and believe.”



Praise

Steve K. – Thanks to Carolyn Burd for the food she prepares for us every Sunday AM.



Praise like this, “Heavenly Father, thank you for Carolyn Burd. Bless her and her family. Give me opportunity this week to express my appreciation to her personally. Thank you, God, for the many ways you provide for our needs and for the people through whom you do it. I pray that I will always be grateful for the things you give and that I too would be generous and always ready to serve someone else.”



All these things we pray in Jesus name.

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Authentic - Change

I always called my Great Grandmother, ‘Mamoo’. Mamoo was my Mom’s Grandma. We would go to her house after church on Sunday for visits. There would always be some kind of great dessert. As she got older she moved from her house to an Assisted Living Center. She was a godly woman. She passed away while I was still pretty young. But my memories of her are fond. One of the things I remember was that every time we went to see her she would always give me change from her purse. Sometimes it was only pennies, sometimes quarters and occasionally even a 50 cent piece! She would always give the change to me and my brother and then say, “Don’t spend it all in one place.”

I liked to take the change she gave me and put it in a little plastic trash can…by little I mean it set on my shelf and I could hold it in one hand. I still have it. I got into the habit of putting the change she gave and any other change I received into that trash can. I still do that today. I remember the first time the trash can was filled to the top. I dumped it on the floor and felt like Scrooge McDuck swimming in his sea of money. I thought I was rich beyond the dreams of avarice! It was only a little change, but spread across the floor it really seemed like a mountain.

I bagged it all up and took it to the store. I had my eye on a bike. When it came time to pay I handed the clerk my bag. We dumped the money on the counter and began to count all the way up to $100, paid for in pennies. It’s amazing the good things that can happen with just a little change.

Change is on the horizon for our church. At the beginning of the year Page Cole announced that God was moving him from vocational ministry within our church to another kind of ministry that was focused on meeting the needs of senior adults. Just recently Mark Yoakum announced God was calling him to First Baptist Euless, a church he’s served in the past. And so now with nearly 6 months of 2007 under our belts we see clearly that God’s giving us a little change and with it He has something exciting in store for the people of First Baptist Owasso.

With these things in mind tonight, during our all together time @ 7:30 in the Worship Center, I will share with you a change that is coming within the Christian Arts Ministry – now, don’t jump to conclusions. I know with all this talk of change and Page and Mark you might get the wrong idea…I’m not going anywhere. I have you in my heart. God is leading our church in a direction that is exciting, challenging and remarkable. Like the gifts my Mamoo used to give me, God’s direction requires a little change. In the days ahead we will discover together God’s next step for us as we serve Him in this place. It’s amazing the good things that can happen with just a little change. I look forward to seeing you tonight so I can tell you even more.



Love y’all, God Bless,

Chad





Notes to Notice



Come Hang with Me

CALLING ALL CAM MEMBERS! Whether you’re on the Drama Team, in the Choir, play and Instrument, Run a Camera or Decorate things – Wednesday, May 2nd from 6:30 – 8:00pm is for you and guest! Invite someone to come hang with you that night to HANG with you and the rest of CAM out in the Hanger. We’ll prepare for Worship, have a great time together and discover what’s coming next in the life of CAM! Plan now to attend and bring someone with you. Don’t miss it!



When: Wednesday, May 2nd, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Where: the HANGAR, where the students meet regularly.

Who: Anyone involved in CAM!



We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:00pm in the Worship Center immediately after come hang with me!



AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May 30th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend. With inflatable’s, games and food as well as a special service this will be a great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to parents who may not really attend church anywhere.



Because of this service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band and Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.



SUNDAY, MAY 6TH – SPECIAL GUEST, CALEB JERNIGAN

You all know Caleb. He’s our Assistant Student Minister and a gifted Lead Worshiper. Sunday, May 6th Caleb will lead our morning and evening services. Caleb has asked for our AM Praise Band and Praise Team to lead with him during the morning service and the PM Praise Band to lead with him during the New Community Service. Celebration Choir and Instrumental Ensemble we’d like for you to have this opportunity to experience worship with your family.



We’ll be back to our ‘normal’ rehearsals and schedule on Wednesday, May 9th & Sunday, May 13th – that Sunday is Mother’s Day! See you then!



ARE YOU IN?

A fully devoted follower is easy to identify. They make healthy choices. They have a healthy appetite for spiritual things – that’s prayer and Bible Study. And they participate in healthy activity – that’s church involvement. Are you involved in Small Group Bible Study? Do you participate in our Worship Services beyond the moments you’re on the platform or serving in the service? If you’re not, you’re missing out. To find out how you can be involved contact me, chad@fbcowasso.org!



YOU MAKE THE CALL

They’re out there, waiting to be asked. People who sing, play instruments, have a little technical knowledge and who are great people to be with. Who could you invite from your Sunday School class this week to be involved in CAM?





RESCUE – the Prayers We Pray



Health Issues

Janet Greene’s Brother, Quentin – surgery in Shawnee

Chad Barnard – Jennifer had a bone scan with negative results

Kathleen Colburn – her mother has had two small strokes and is having health issues

Melissa Tyndall – ongoing health concerns

Pray for each name on the list like this, “Father, you are able to heal. You’ve given us doctors and medicine. You’ve surrounded each of these people with people who love and care for them. Let each person on the list be confident in Your grace. Heal them and let them tell the story of your salvation – not just spiritual, but physical – to those around them.



Spiritual Matters

Lori Thrun’s daughter – salvation

Pray like this, “Dear Jesus, soften her heart. Draw her to Yourself. Let her ask the right questions. Let Lori and Wally give the right answers. Help her understand and believe.”



Praise

Steve K. – Thanks to Carolyn Burd for the food she prepares for us every Sunday AM.



Praise like this, “Heavenly Father, thank you for Carolyn Burd. Bless her and her family. Give me opportunity this week to express my appreciation to her personally. Thank you, God, for the many ways you provide for our needs and for the people through whom you do it. I pray that I will always be grateful for the things you give and that I too would be generous and always ready to serve someone else.”



All these things we pray in Jesus name.





Order of Service

Sunday AM – 04-29-07

iFamily | iDon’t – Starting Right: Rating Your Dating





VIDEO | First in Action



PRE-SERVICE

CD | Countdown



CHOIR SPECIAL

O Praise Him – G, CHART



CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Down at the Cross – Ab, BH – 140



VIDEO | First in Action



WELCOME

Dr. Roger Ferguson



WELCOME MUSIC

Take My Life – G, CHART



DRAMA

iFamily Talk Show – iDon’t



CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

MT58 – G, CHART



MESSAGE – [this may have a short VIDEO in the middle]

Dr. Roger Ferguson



INVITATION

Take My Life – G, CHART



OFFERING



Presentation of New Members

Close

MT58 – G, CHART



VIDEO | First in Action





REHEARSAL SCHEDULE



Oh Praise Him

Holy Like You

For Every Mountain

Keep Me True

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Authentic - SOAP

How do you meditate on God’s Word? I use soap. It helps me clean up my life from the inside out. Soap is a simple acrostic that helps me identify things God is saying to me and ways I can pray for myself and others. Rather than tell you about it I’ll show my SOAP for today. Perhaps you can select a passage of Scripture to get all lathered up with tomorrow! If you do, send it to me! I’d love to hear what God is doing in your life.

Here we go:



S – Scripture

“That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” Romans 10:9 – 10 (NIV)



O – Observation

How long have I known these verses? Since I was a kid? I think I take for granted how simple, yet profound the salvation I’ve been given really is. God starts with my heart, for in my hearts is where I need to be made right. And what’s in my heart comes out my lips so the world around me now knows of my salvation.



A - Application

I’ve been in church all my life. I’ve been a Believer since I was 9 years old. Over those many years how many times have I denied Christ with my words or my actions? How often do I fail to live up to the faith which I profess? Yet my salvation is secure. Why, because believing and confessing aren’t the FUEL that feed the fire of my faith. They are the flames that light the night sky and bring life giving heat to a cold and lost world. I confess and believe because of the grace God has given to me through His Son, Jesus Christ and by that same grace I will not be the same tomorrow as I am today. What once tripped me up and held me back is now only an after thought because in me Christ has overcome. And that which causes me to stumble today won’t be a challenge for me tomorrow. Because my God continues to work in me and by His grace I will overcome. I’m not yet perfect and I haven’t yet attained the goal I seek, but this one thing I do, forgetting that which is behind and with firm resolve trusting in the One who has brought me this far I press toward the mark for the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus. I believe…I confess…I will overcome.



P - Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the grace you have given me. For your tender mercies and loving kindness bring rest and relief to my soul. I confess my trust in you. I believe, Jesus, that you are Lord. Teach me what I need to know. Show me what I need to do. Help me to overcome and allow me the privilege of leading others to do the same.



Love y’all, God Bless,

Chad





Notes to Notice



Come Hang with Me

CALLING ALL CAM MEMBERS! Whether you’re on the Drama Team, in the Choir, play and Instrument, Run a Camera or Decorate things – Wednesday, May 2nd from 6:30 – 8:00pm is for you and guest! Invite someone to come hang with you that night to HANG with you and the rest of CAM out in the Hanger. We’ll prepare for Worship, have a great time together and discover what’s coming next in the life of CAM! Plan now to attend and bring someone with you. Don’t miss it!



When: Wednesday, May 2nd, 6:30 – 9:00pm

Where: the HANGAR, where the students meet regularly.

Who: Anyone involved in CAM!



AWANA RECOGNITION

Wednesday, May 30th will be our annual AWANA Recognition service in the Worship Center from 6:30 – 8:00pm. I would like to invite everyone involved in our regular rehearsals to attend. With inflatable’s, games and food as well as a special service this will be a great time for families. It’s also a great opportunity for us to reach out to parents who may not really attend church anywhere.



Because of this service we won’t have our regular Wednesday rehearsals. We will have Praise Band in Praise Team rehearsal from 8:15 – 9:30 in the Worship Center.



ARE YOU IN?

A fully devoted follower is easy to identify. They make healthy choices. They have a healthy appetite for spiritual things – that’s prayer and Bible Study. And they participate in healthy activity – that’s church involvement. Are you involved in Small Group Bible Study? Do you participate in our Worship Services beyond the moments you’re on the platform or serving in the service? If you’re not, you’re missing out. To find out how you can be involved contact me, chad@fbcowasso.org!



YOU MAKE THE CALL

They’re out there, waiting to be asked. People who sing, play instruments, have a little technical knowledge and who are great people to be with. Who could you invite from your Sunday School class this week to be involved in CAM?





RESCUE – the Prayers We Pray



Karla Price – for the Purnell family

Pray: “Father, these have been two busy and difficult weeks for the Purnell’s. Thank you for the ministry they share with the people of our church. They have experienced loss in way that is remarkable. Protect and provide for them. Allow them to know Your favor.”

Michelle Maxwell – Melissa Tyndall’s health

Pray: “Jesus, thank you for Melissa and the way she serves the people of our church. Heal her and meet her needs. Bless her with and unusual confidence in You.”

Ted Mardis – His former church in Louisiana is going through some changes

Pray: “Heavenly Father, whether it’s a church in Louisiana or a church in Owasso, OK – this is YOUR church. Bless the people involved with wisdom, patience and understanding. Let those who lead be well tuned to Your heart. Let those who follow serve well. Let all that’s done be done with integrity and love.”

Lindy Dwyer – Victoria’s friend, Rachel – pray for salvation

Pray: “Jesus, you are the only one who can change a heart. Work in Rachel. Soften her heart and help her understand what it means to trust you for the forgiveness of sins. Bring her to salvation. Help Victoria and her family speak the Words of life at just the right moment to Rachel.”

Vance Henderson – Sang at the funeral of an 86 year old Saint.

PRAISE: “Father, in your Word you say, “Blessed in the sight of the Lord is the death of one of His Saints.” Thank you for the example of this beloved Saint. May we live our lives in such a way that on the day we die the transition from here to heaven is not that great. May the affect of our lives be to draw others to You. May our relationship with You grow deeper each day. Teach us to live beyond ourselves.”







Order of Service

Sunday AM – 04-22-07

iFamily | iDo – Making Marriage Beautiful



PRE-SERVICE

CD | Countdown



CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

He Keeps Me Singing – Ab, BH – 425

I Stand Amazed in the Presence – Ab, BH – 547 (from the hymnal)



WELCOME

Dr. Roger Ferguson



WELCOME MUSIC

I’m Gonna Be – E, CHART



VIDEO | First in Action



CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

In the Secret – G, CHART



CHOIR SPECIAL

It’s Amazing – F, GIW – 25



CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Hungry – D, CHART



SPECIAL MUSIC

Chad & Londa Balthrop



MESSAGE – [this will have a DRAMA in the middle]

Dr. Roger Ferguson



INVITATION

I Will Say Yes – G, CHART



OFFERING | I Will Say Yes (reprise)



Presentation of New Members

Close

I’m Gonna Be – E, CHART



VIDEO | First in Action





REHEARSAL SCHEDULE



Oh Praise Him

Holy Like You

It’s Amazing

For Every Mountain

Keep Me True

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Authentic - Full Devotion

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Easter services this year were
fantastic! Everyone who helped set up, tear down, sing, play, push buttons,
manage people --- from the simplest of tasks to the most complex, everyone did
a great job!

I would especially like to thank Darin Harrison, Dee Huggins, Brad
Williams & Vanessa Kehl – these four led worship in the Education Center
with the folks who attended services over there. What you were asked to do was
not easy and I’ve heard nothing but compliments from the people who attended
services in that room. THANKS for leading them well.

In the last edition of theScore I tried to define what a fully devoted
follower looks like. A fully devoted follower of Christ can be characterized by
three things:

1.       Healthy Appetite – this is a hunger for God’s Word, prayer
and personal spiritual disciplines.

2.       Healthy Activity – this is church involvement. I’m not
talking about being here every time the doors are open, but at a minimum being
involved in Worship Services, Sunday School and in some personal, individual
connection (like serving in CAM) on a weekly basis.

3.       Healthy Choices – knowing we should eat right and exercise
are not enough. We’ve got to actually get out there and do something about it.
That’s what healthy choices are all about. You can have the best of intentions
regarding your life with Christ, but until you make healthy choices you’re not
going to get anywhere. The good news is that Healthy Activity will lead you
into a healthy appetite and healthy choices, so you’re not alone. Better than
that. God has put His Holy Spirit inside you and the Bible says that He is
working in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. So as we grow in
our faith these healthy choices should become less like daily struggles and
more like daily habits.

These are the characteristics of
someone who is a fully devoted follower of Christ. It’s not that they have
arrived at perfection. They’re certainly not Saints in the capitol ‘S’ sense,
but they are a work in progress and each day they move closer to God and are
encouraging others to do the same. If you consider yourself a fully devoted
follower of Christ your life should line up with these characteristics. But
there’s one more defining quality that we have yet to discuss.

A fully devoted follower will
lead others to become fully devoted
followers. That’s right. You’ve heard preachers call it ‘making disciples’. And
I would bet that most of us reading this are content being good followers…good
Christians. We think of ourselves as fully devoted followers, but do we really
consider ourselves disciple makers? We may even think of ourselves as leaders
rather than followers – but that’s not really the same as being a disciple
maker.

In the next few weeks we’re going
to look at what it means to be a disciple maker. Jesus only discipled 12 men.
These 12 men changed the world forever
and have changed eternity for you and me. Wouldn’t it be cool if over the
course of your life you could disciple 12 people who would change the world?

In the immortal words of the
renowned theologian, Yoda, “Two always there are, student and teacher”. We
would say Disciple and Disciple Maker. Who’s discipling you today and who do
you disciple? Begin praying that God would use you to disciple 12 people who
will change the world.

 

Love y’all, God Bless,

Chad

 

 

Notes to Notice

 

 

A-MAY-ZING

Things get
A-MAY-ZING for us during rehearsal in MAY – be watching here for more details
next week!

 

YOU MAKE THE CALL

They’re out
there, waiting to be asked. People who sing, play instruments, have a little
technical knowledge and who are great people to be with. Who could you call
this week to invite to be part of CAM? Could
you send a quick email? Could you shoot ‘em a text message that says, “You can
do it…come with me to _______ “ This week. You make the call!

 

CAMTech THIS SUNDAY!

If YOU have an
interest in cameras, buttons, and anything that shows up on a screen, this is
for you! CAMTech will teach you the basics of video
production, and give you an opportunity to use everything you learn to glorify
God in a unique and creative way. Join us in Room 400 (the area just
behind the Worship
Center) TODAY at
4:00pm. No production experience is necessary. If you have experience,
bring it with you! If you are currently serving in the Broadcast Ministry, join
us for CAMTech and bring anyone you know who has an interest in serving in this
area of ministry!

 

 

 

RESCUE – the Prayers We Pray

 

This week I want us to approach our
prayer requests from a different perspective. There are certainly a number of
significant needs within CAM. These needs are
physical, financial, spiritual and relational. It is God’s desire to meet all
your need according to His riches in glory.

Today I want us to consider how we pray and for what we pray. Have you noticed the majority of our requests are
about physical needs? There’s nothing wrong with this. It’s the easiest to see
and certainly affects our life directly.

For the next several weeks let’s try
something new. Let’s divide our requests into three categories.

PHYSICAL NEED | SPIRITUAL NEED | PRAISE & CELEBRATION

For every person we put on our list
with a physical need let’s put someone on the list with a spiritual need
[salvation or otherwise] and something on the list that is a praise & celebration
of God’s work in our lives. These three don’t all have to come from the same
person or be a part of the same request. They can come from us as a group. The
purpose of this is not to down play the physical challenges we face, but to up
play the spiritual needs and God’s answers. Sometimes we fill our prayer lists
with physical needs simply because they are easier to talk about. No one wants
to reveal dirty spiritual laundry disguised as a prayer request in front of a
large group of people so rather than ask for prayer we keep things quietly to
ourselves. Let’s use discretion to guide us and when appropriate share minor
details – but if it’s not appropriate to say out loud simply tell us there’s an
unspoken spiritual need. Make sense?

Prayer is not preparation for God’s
work. Prayer is God’s work. Another way to say this, “When we work…we work.
When we pray, God works.”

I’m praying for you.

 

 

Order of
Service

Sunday AM – 04-15-07

iFamily | iForgive – Scott Phillips

 

PRE-SERVICE

CD | First in Action | Countdown

 

SERVICE START | Chad Balthrop

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Your Name – F > F# > G, CHART

Friend of God – E, CHART

 

WELCOME

Mike Napier or Chuck Self

 

WELCOME MUSIC | Friend
of God (Reprise)

 

VIDEO | First in
Action

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

How Deep the Father’s Love for Us – D, CHART

 

CHOIR SPECIAL

It’s Amazing – F, GIW – 25

 

CONGREGATIONAL MUSIC

Amazing Love – D, CHART

 

SPECIAL MUSIC

Paid in Full

 

MESSAGE

Scott Phillips

 

INVITATION

Amazing Love – D, CHART

 

OFFERING

Student Ministry VTV Offering

Preschool Video

 

Presentation of New Members

Close | Friend of God
(Reprise)

VIDEO | First in
Action

 

 

REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

 

Oh Praise Him

Holy Like You

It’s Amazing

For Every Mountain

Keep Me True

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