The Messenger

The Messenger is the church newspaper that is published about one or two times a year at present. It gives brief summaries of the worship services, prayer request lists, activities that have happened, events that are coming up.

It has been treasured by many for over 20 years now.

This will be added to the Web Site when the next issue of The Messenger is printed. Janice Tallant is editor of this church newspaper.

Check back here later for the next issue.

Return to Home Page

Highlights of Spring 2014.

We enjoyed a wonderful Spring Revival with great preaching by Rev. Joe Kirday. On Easter Sunday morning, Kade Kelley preached at our Sunrise Service. Then we had breakfast sponsored by our Brotherhood. At 10 a.m. we had an indoors baptizing service with Sierra, Kevin, and Skylar being baptized. Following baptizing, our Friendship Choirs presented some beautiful Easter music and we had a great sermon.

On Saturday morning, April 26, the Pathfinders Sunday School Class laid the memorial and honorarium bricks that were donated from a big fundraiser for the new Family Life Center. Please go by the FLC to see them. They are located at the end of the building near the big door. We are waiting for a few bricks to be corrected and placed before an official brick laying ceremony is given. Some persons have expressed an interest in donating more bricks so if you are interested, please let us know by June 1, 2014, for the next brick ordering.

On Saturday afternoon, April 26, the United Daughters of the Confederacy Col. Hiram Parks Bell Chapter 2641 Chapter of Cumming, GA, held at Confederate Memorial Day Commemoration at Friendship. There was a service inside with special recognitions to current military people who are descendants of Confederate Soldiers. Dr. Brian Steel Wills was guest speaker. There was also a ceremony in the old section of Friendship's Cemetery for 37 Confederate Soldiers. Roses were placed on their graves by a descendant of their family. There was a rifle and cannon artillery salute in the cemetery. Refreshments were provided by the group in the Pavilion.

On Saturday night, April 26, the Annual FBC Talent Show Fundraiser was held following a hamburger/hot dog meal with near $3,000 raised.

On Sunday morning, April 27, FBC held a Dedication Service in our new Family Life Center for our "Changing Families Life Center". It was a very special service as we dedicate this building to our Lord's Work. More details will be written in the next issue of The Messenger. We were so pleased to use the 400 new chairs that have recently been donated to the FLC.

We had a wonderful "May Meeting" on Mother's Day with special music by all choirs. Special Recognition was given to our youngest and oldest mothers (Jaymi and Irene) and to the mother with the most children (Gwen and Stacy) and the most grandchildren (Dale) and the mother with the most children and grandchildren at church (Irene). Rev. Byrd delivered a great sermon from 2 Kings 4.

SUMMER REVIVAL is being held at Friendship beginning July 13 through July 19, 2014, with 11 a.m. services and 7:45 p.m. services each day. Baptizing will be held on July 20 at 10 a.m. There will be special singing at all services. Dr. Scott Gilbert will be assisting our pastor, Rev. Ricky Byrd, during the revival. PRAY!! PRAY!! We hope to see many lost souls saved as the church is revived.

SUMMER REVIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Sermon topics thus far this week beginning with Sunday morning are "distractions" and Sunday night, "Jesus Loves Me". Monday topics were "God is the Sure Thing" and "Daddy's Hands". Tuesday topics were "Get off the interstate and take the back roads" and "How will you cross the swelling of the Jordan?". Wednesday topics were "Jesus says you're worth it" and "What sins are you talking about?". One young lady was saved tonight. Thursday morning topic was faith and a young man was saved this morning. Thursday evening topic was "Which side of the cross are you on?" Another young boy was saved tonight. Friday topic was "Jonah paid the fare but got on the wrong boat?" Friday night Youth Service was "Do you have a testimony?" Another young boy got a testimony during the altar call. Praise the LORD!!! Saturday topic was "Justification for the Gift of Life". Why would one want to spend eternity in hell with Satan who doesn't even have a key to his own house? (Rev 1:18)Saturday night was about the joys of heaven. Greater details about services below.

On Sunday, July 14, 2013, the Adult Choir opened with Jesus is Alive and Well. Rev. Tommy Lawson led the prayer. Tommy & Beverly Lawson sang I Believe There's A Place Called Heaven. The Children of Promise sang I Heard A Sweet Voice and I Want you to Know How Much I Love You. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message. He spoke about Chris Chester's devotion at Brotherhood. Ella had picked up just pieces of sea shells at the beach instead of whole sea shells. This made Chris think, "what if God had only picked up perfect pieces, where would we be." Ricky also talked about the joy of the prayer rally and the Hightower Food and Clothing Bank report of 6 souls being saved (Bill Bass had announced this). Rev. Byrd's text today was 'distractions'. One definition of distraction is the act of turning away from the original focus and attention. Distractions are things that pull our eyes off of Jesus. Has anything ever caused you to turn away from your original focus? Rev. Byrd read to us from Luke 10: 38-40 about Martha and Mary. (He mentioned that he had heard what a good Bible Study the Ladies had last week about Martha and Mary.) In verse 40, Martha asked Jesus, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone?" Martha was distracted from Jesus as she wanted everything to be just right. She was overly occupied and too busy. Everything must be second place except for Jesus who should always be first place in our lives. Martha was cumbered about, worried, and bitter toward her sister. Mary was sitting at Jesus feet listening to Him. Rev. Byrd asked us to not be a distraction this week nor be distracted ourselves. Lazarus was their brother. When Lazarus had died, this had been a distraction for Martha and Mary. To have revival at Friendship this week, we will need to roll that stone (distraction) away. Martha was distracted. Mary had her priorities in order. Jesus' goal for us is occupation with himself. In John 12, Martha was serving. What was Mary doing? She was anointing Jesus' feet with very costly ointment, spikenard, and wiping his feet with her hair. (This was not common for a woman to do in those days.) The ointment would have cost a year's wages. Judas Iscariot said that this ointment should have been sold and the money given to the poor. Judas was a thief. Jesus said, "Let her alone. You have the poor always, but me you have not always." Don't let distractions get in our way this week. The Children of Promise did our invitation song, Little Is Much.

On Sunday evening, July 14,2013, all the FBC choirs sang Something's Happening. Rev. Ricky Byrd welcomed everyone and read Acts 4:31 about the people praying and the place shaking and then Rev. Byrd led a prayer. The Roanoke Youth Choir sang I Love the Way You Hold Me and How Great is Our God? Two of the youth played their own instruments which kept all of us tapping the beat with them. (Mrs. Kate Bramblett was most likely rejoicing in heaven that her great-grandchildren were singing at FBC.) Roanoke Adult & Choir Choirs beautifully sang They're Holding up the Ladder, I've Just Started Living, and I Just Stopped By on My Way Home. Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message. He told us about being at FBC 30 years ago helping Rev. Bud Boles in revival. He read a story about a 5 year old little girl singing Jesus Loves Me while she was trying to get a MRI done. Rev. Brown read Romans 8:35 and John 10:10-11 and John 3:16-17. Jesus loved us even before we were saved. Jesus loves us because He wanted to. He talked about his early life when only his mother and Jesus loved him. Jesus always loved him regardless of how he acted. Jesus adopted him. Jesus wrote in RED when He adopted Ronnie. He told us how he and his wife, Rebecca, had adopted three children and had signed a lot of papers. Jesus signed our adoption papers in RED showing that He loved us.

On Monday morning, July 15, 2013, Rev. Ray Rogers led the opening prayer. Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message. Jesus still loves him today. He read from 2 Samuel 23:1-5. He gave some background story about David from 1 Samuel 17 about David saying he could fight the Philistine man. Rev. Brown thought of his personal battles and God bringing him through them. His emphasis was on 2 Samuel 23:5, "God has made an everlasting covenant ordered in all things and sure." God is the SURE thing. Some years ago, Ronnie was told that he might not live more than 6 months. He wanted to find a Christian doctor. When he saw mission pictures all over one doctor's office, he felt like he had found the right doctor. He was told that they would begin by taking off one joint at a time. A nurse told him that he might even have his whole arm removed trying to control his disease. Rev. Brown proudly holds up his right hand with only one joint missing from one finger. "My God is real. When I draw my last breath, just color me 'gone'." When he gets to glory not if he gets to glory, it is a sure thing, everything will be just right. In the scripture read, David was saying he was ready to go. Paul and Silas in the prison had found the SURE thing. Jesus never lets you down. God is always the SURE thing.

On Monday evening, July 15, 2013, all FBC choirs opened with When Jesus Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message. Jesus still loves him today. He read from 2 Samuel 23:1-5. He gave some background story about David from 1 Samuel 17 about David saying he could fight the Philistine man. Rev. Brown thought of his personal battles and God bringing him through them. His emphasis was on 2 Samuel 23:5, "God has made an everlasting covenant ordered in all things and sure." God is the SURE thing. Some years ago, Ronnie was told that he might not live more than 6 months. He wanted to find a Christian doctor. When he saw mission pictures all over one doctor's office, he felt like he had found the right doctor. He was told that they would begin by taking off one joint at a time. A nurse told him that he might even have his whole arm removed trying to control his disease. Rev. Brown proudly holds up his right hand with only one joint missing from one finger. "My God is real. When I draw my last breath, just color me 'gone'." When he gets to glory not if he gets to glory, it is a sure thing, everything will be just right. In the scripture read, David was saying he was ready to go. Paul and Silas in the prison had found the SURE thing. Jesus never lets you down. God is always the SURE thing.

On Monday evening, July 15, 2013, all FBC choirs opened with When Jesus Passes By. Christopher Bagley led prayer. Choirs sang If You Knew Him Like I Know Him. John Clark and Alexandria sang Glorious Day. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message about "Daddy's Hands". He recalled Chris Chester's story about his little girl at the beach picking up seashells. Rev. Byrd talked about his Daddy's big hands and how strong they were as he found out when playing a "mercy game" with him. He read Isaiah 40:9-11 about "the Lord God will come with a strong hand...he shall gather the lambs with his arm and carry them in the bosom". Daddy's Hands (Abba, Father) wants to hold us close to His bosom. He demonstrated the song, "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" as he read verse 12 and talked about the span of God's hands. Jesus wants to save us, but He wants us to ask him. Isaiah 59:1-4 states that God's hand is not shortened that it cannot save. Anything between us and God is an idol. Sin separates us from God. He read Hebrews 10:31, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." He followed this with verses 26-27. He talked about Jesus' preparation for the Lord's Supper in Mark 14:32-36. In verse 36, Jesus is talking to His Daddy, Abba, about what is about to happen which shows Jesus' personal talking to His Father. He read Romans 8:15 about Abba, Father, and being adopted into the family of God. The Father (Daddy) will never forsake us. He also read Galatians 4:6 about Abba, Father. Sherry Fields was asked to sing Daddy's Hands at close of this service. Wonderful service again.

On Tuesday morning, July 16, 2013, Kasey Chester sang I Need You. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message about "back roads". He read Matthew 7:13-14. The way that leads to life is a strait gate with a narrow way. He gave examples of his family getting off the interstate highways and taking the longer way so they could see more. He spoke of taking some seniors from Bethany on a sightseeing tour one day while they were on a senior retreat at Pigeon Forge. You have to seek out the sites to enjoy. The narrow way with the strait gate will need to be looked for. Broad is the way and wide is the gate that leads to destruction. We are living in such a busy world that we are missing out on what God wants us to see. Sometimes we are just too busy being a Christian and miss what God wants in our life. He spoke about the beauty of Cade's Cove. You need to take your time going through there. Why go through there if you are not going to look at the beauty. Few there be that will find the strait gate and narrow way.

On Tuesday evening, July 16, 2013, Rev. Gary Martin led prayer. Liberty sang a few songs including Lighthouse, Did I Mention, Look What I've Traded, and John Saw Me in My New Home. Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message. He said that he and Ricky are "tootsie roll" preachers. Ricky can eat on a tootsie roll for a long time. Ronnie bites right into the tootsie roll (sermon). Rev. Brown read from Jeremiah 12:1-5 with his emphasis "how wilt thou do in the swelling of the Jordan?" Will you swim over? It doesn't matter how you get there but that you get there and then "I want to see Jesus. When the Jordan overflows, you are going to have to make it on your own. Stay with the boat and you can get across. I can't sing here. When I cross over Jordan, you might as well sit down and listen to me sing." At the invitation time, he asked for Liberty to sing a "heaven" song. They sang What A Reunion That Will Be and others.

On Wednesday morning, July 17, 2013, Carli sang Mercies in Disguise. Rev. Scott Gilbert led prayer. Rev. Christopher Bagley brought the message. He told that he was saved on Wednesday morning during revival in 1995. He remembers there was a lunch and only a few people were in the church at the time. He began with this question. "Do you know just how much you are worth to God?" He read Luke 12:22-34. There was an innumerable multitude of people around Jesus. He talked about laying up your treasures. Seek the kingdom of God and He will take care of all you need. If God takes time to clothe the grass, how much more will he help you because he loves you? A product today is only worth what people are willing to pay for it. Look what Jesus paid for us because he felt we were worth it. Jesus suffered many lashes, thorns pushed into his head, dragging that heavy cross with hard steps, the driving of nails through his wrists, difficulty of breathing from hanging on that cross and much more because we are worth it to him. "Excruciating pain" comes from the awful pain suffered from crucifixion on a cross. We are worth more than you will ever know. How much is Jesus worth to you? Where your treasure is there your heart will be. Is Jesus worth your attention? Your pride? Rev. Byrd led prayer and said the blessing for the Senior Lunch that we were having today. We were glad to have Jane Martin Smith play the organ for us as she used to play 60+ years ago.

On Wednesday evening, July 17, 2013, all FBC choirs opened with I'm Not Giving Up. Rev. Terry Cowart led prayer. The FBC Choirs and Scott and Cynthia McWhorter sang The Answer is Christ. Stacey & Katey Rose (accompanied by Gail Scoggins on piano) sang Nothing But the Blood and I'm Bound for That City. Robbie and Rebecca Brown sang The Old Ship of Zion. Alex Bagley sang a new song that he had just written about Hallelujah with Christopher accompanying him on guitar. Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message from his favorite verse John 3:17, "God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved." He also read Luke 7:36-48. "God don't make no junk." He told an experience of a woman coming to him and starting to confess all her sins. He told the woman to tell the Lord. She was saved and a few weeks later he was privileged to baptize her. The devil will tell us that we are too bad to be saved. Some people would say that this woman was trash. Jesus is a "trash collector". This woman had been homeless for a while, but now she would have a home with Jesus. He told his experience of being saved. He was the little bad boy sitting on the back row of the church. Conviction was getting stronger and stronger. Satan is a liar. He tells you that you can't be saved because you are so bad. Jesus covered up our sins with His Blood when we are saved. Satan keeps bringing up those sins that we have done. Once saved, God says "What sins are you talking about? I don't remember them anymore." God told Jesus to come to earth to save us, not to condemn us. Rev. Ricky Brown preached a little about "what sins are you talking about" as well. He talked about how the altar is for Christians as well as for sinners who need to be saved. He and a few others prayed in the altar. Then a young lady came to Ricky and said she needed to be saved and was saved in just a few minutes.

On Thursday morning, July 18, 2013, Jacky Fortner sang How Great Thou Art. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message about "faith". How much faith does it take to serve the Lord? Each person has their own calling for God: teaching, preaching, praying as you fill your pew, singing, etc. He talked about Jesus' Transfiguration in Matthew 17:1-5. He read Matthew 17:14-20. If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you can move a mountain. If we had that much faith, we could turn the world upside down. When we pray and we don't see results, maybe we are not having enough faith when we pray. A little faith can grow into something great. He quoted the James verse about faith without works is dead. Peter walked on the water going to Jesus because he had faith in Jesus when he called him. When Peter became afraid, he began to sink and then said, "Lord, save me" and immediately Jesus did. When Peter had a little faith, he walked on water until he doubted. There is no limit what the church can do if we have a little faith. We put limits on what God can do because we lack faith. "FBC, you have a little faith, so don't start doubting. Faith multiplies like compound interest." At the invitation call, a young man was saved.

On Thursday evening, July 18, 2013, Liberty and the FBC Choirs opened with How Great Thou Art. Phil Westray led prayer. Randy Roper sang He Whispers Sweet Peace to Me and choir joined him at chorus. Tianna Mashburn and Cynthia McWhorter sang Love Can Build a Bridge and Holy is the Lord. Carli sang This Is the Promise I Made to You. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message with the text "Which side of the cross are you on?" He read Luke 23:43, "Jesus said, To day thou shalt be with me in paradise." Paradise is the dwelling place of God. He read Matthew 27:44 and Mark 15:27 about the two thieves. One side of the cross goes to heaven and the other side goes to hell. One of the thieves made a mockery of Christ. The other thief said, "Aren't you afraid of God?" To be saved you have got to give repentance. The man on the other side of the cross recognized his sins. One thief confessed he sinned to the man on the middle cross and said that they received due reward, but the man in the middle had done nothing wrong. You must repent, must believe, and then confess. You have to ask Jesus to forgive you. He died for you and me. Jesus said, "To day shall thou be with me in paradise." What sin are you talking about? This was the thief's last opportunity. He did not get baptized. He was baptized in the Holy Ghost. The formula to be saved is "repent, believe, ask, and confess". Jesus did not come to condemn but to save. There was a man on each side of Jesus. One went to hell and one went to heaven. Which side are you on? Bill Bass talked to the congregation about not being in a church when he was saved. He has watched people be saved in the altar of a church for 50 years. He asked for anyone not saved in a church to meet with him in the altar and pray as saved persons. Many came forth. John Clark was asked to sing Sweet Hour of Prayer. Michelle Pirkle sang It's So Peaceful. Ricky opened the door of the church. Kirk Hughes joined under the watch care and Wesley joined to be baptized. After church was over, a little boy told his parents that he had been saved during the altar prayer. His family met with Ricky at the church so he could confess to Ricky that he had been saved tonight.

On Friday morning, July 19, 2013, Howard Garrett sang I Sing Because and the congregation sang with him What Sins Are You Talking About? Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message from Jonah 1:1-4. Jonah paid the fare, but got on the wrong boat. Christians are saved to serve. When God gives us a job, we may say, "I'm not going to do that" or "I can't do that." Ronnie tried to get away from God when he was called to preach. He tried to get so sorry that God would not want to use him. God's call just became louder and louder. Ronnie would dream of children in circles with blank places where children were missing because he had not preached to them about Jesus. God called Ronnie to preach to children. You may be going down the road and Satan wants a ride. You give him a ride and soon he wants to do the driving. After Jonah got on the wrong boat, the winds came, the sea got rough, Jonah got thrown off the boat and was swallowed by a big fish. He was in the belly of hell and cried out. He talked about the dirty and hungry little children crying out in our county without the Lord. They are told they are not worth anything. At the close of the service, Belan Payne sang The Battle's Not Mine, I Give It to You.

On Friday night, July 19, 2013, Elijah and Caleb began our youth service with a piano duet of The Old Gospel Ship. The combined youth choirs sang Amazing Grace/My Chains Are Gone with Ethan Martin leading them and playing guitar. Little Kyleigh sang My Shepherd. The Youth Choirs sang Your Love Never Fails and Amazing and I Come and Lay My Burdens Down. The Youth Choir sang I'll Be Singing with the Saints. Jedd sang Glorious Day. John Clark sang Farther Along. Rev. Rex Byrd led prayer. Fifteen year old Will, who just told his preacher calling a few days ago, brought the message about "Do you have a testimony?" He read John 5:39 and Psalm 147:1. He spoke of a church camp theme of "Happy, Happy, Happy". Are you praising Jesus for your testimony? Today is the day of salvation. Katey Rose sang You Changed My Name. Eli joined the church to be baptized. Another young boy was saved tonight. We had another great meeting. Liberty, Jedd and Ethan sang specials while we were shaking hands.

On Saturday morning, July 20, 2013, Rev. Don Westray led prayer. Scott and Cynthia McWhorter and Michelle Pirkle sang Ask the Blind Man, He Saw It All and I Surrender All of Me. Rev. Scott Wilbanks brought the message. He shared with us some of his memories of going to church as a child. His mother raised six children by herself and had them at church every Sunday. They all got Sunday School perfect attendance pens. One of his Sunday School teachers, Nancy Clackum, from Corinth was with us at FBC today and he thanked her for teaching him. He talked about being in the U S Marines. Corinth hung pictures of the military persons by the side of the pictures of Jesus. He said he would not preach today from Genesis to Revelation because he would begin in Deuteronomy 6. The Lord had brought his people into the Promised Land. The Israelites had houses that they did not build that were furnished and wells that they did not dig. They were to teach their children what God had done for them. God would give them the increase and then they would fall away and God would decrease. They would come back and God would increase again. He read Romans 5:12-18 about "gift". He spoke of justification for the gift of life and that we get that through Jesus. Jesus' gifts are bundled. Jesus' gift keeps on giving and giving and giving. Scott's gifts are his church, church family, and other church families that stretch out even to Alabama. He loves Jesus and wants more and more of Him. The Gifts we have here get us ready for the next world. He spoke of the different churches in Revelation and called out several different churches right around FBC which are different denominations but believe in Jesus Christ. The churches in Revelation were asked to repent and they could eat of the tree of life, be given a crown of life and a robe of life, manna, the morning star, etc. Why would one want to go to hell and live with Satan? Satan doesn't even have a key to his own house because Jesus has the keys to hell and death. (Revelation 1:18) Scott said he enjoys preaching and witnessing to all around him about Jesus and how He loves all of us.

On Saturday evening, July 20,2013, the FBC Choirs opened with Not Made with Hands. Gary Bagley led prayer. The Choirs sang So You Would Know. Scott and Cynthia McWhorter sang I Want to Stroll over Heaven with You and I Can Only Imagine. Rev. Ronnie Brown brought the message from Revelation 21:1-8. He wanted to talk about heaven tonight. There will be no more pain there, no cancer, multiple sclerosis, etc. He looks forward to sitting down and playing with the children on the side of the river. He can just imagine running by the Jordan River with the children and Jesus walking by. When we get to heaven, we will collect on the promises He has made us. Camden joined the church to be baptized. We shook hands also with Ronnie and Rebecca as they will not be with us in the morning at the baptizing. Great Revival! Thank you Jesus!

On Sunday morning, July 8, the FBC Stone Rolling Choir sang "Family of God" and "We've Got the Power in the Name of Jesus". Liberty sang "I've Just Got to Praise Him". Rev. Ricky Byrd's message was on "Ingredients". He gave examples of ingredients needed for banana pudding and for Paul's Brunswick stew. In order to make these dishes, the ingredients must be mixed together. It is the same with revival. All ingredients for revival must be mixed together in order for revival to occur. There are 3 essential ingredients. 1) Admit you are lost. 2) Believe in Jesus Christ. 3) Confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior. He explained each with several scripture references. He also read 2 Chronicles 7:1-3, 7-14. Just as all ingredients in the pudding and stew must be present and mixed, our relationship with God will not be right without the right ingredients. With the right mix, we will taste and see that the Lord is good. Souls will be saved and hearts revived.

On Sunday evening, July 8, the choir sang "The Fire Will Fall", "Not Made With Hands", "If You Knew Him" and backed Liberty with "John Saw Me That Day". Liberty sang "Look What I've Traded". Rev. Josh Newberry brought the message with the text "Who do you say that I am?" Do you know Him? (The songs had been with the theme also of "Know Him") He read several scripture references with that question of "who do people say that I am". Matthew 16:13. Exodus 3:14, "I Am that I Am". He talked about feeding the 5,000 and many disciples deserting Jesus during His Ministry and Jesus would ask "who do people say I am". Jesus says "I Am". Jesus is our financial security and advisor, our refuge, whatever we need. He read from Psalm 73. "Do you know Him? Whom do you say that He is?"

On Monday morning, July 9, Randy Roper sang "Wonderful Peace". Beverly Lawson sang "Still Blessed" and "I'm Drinking from My Saucer Cause My Cup has Overflowed". Rev. Josh Newberry brought the message from Mark 5:25-29 about the woman with the issue of blood being healed because she got on her knees to touch Jesus' garment. Jesus is walking the aisles of the church wanting someone to touch the hem of His garment. The woman had immediately felt cleansed and felt peace when she touched His garment. Many times "wonderful peace" was mentioned that Randy had sung about. During altar call time, Ricky read the story from Luke 8:43-48 about the woman who touched the border of Jesus' garment by kneeling down. We must also be humble for Jesus to heal us.

On Monday evening, July 9, the FBC Adult Choir opened with "Jesus Is Alive and Well" and "If You Knew Him". Bethany Baptist Church Youth Choir sang "Who Am I" and "Just Lead Me On and On". The BBC Adult Choir then joined with youth to sing "Let's Meet by the River", "It's Shouting Time in Heaven", and "Hallelujah to the Lamb". Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message with the text, "prayer without expectancy is unbelief in disguise". We say that prayer changes things and that there is power in prayer, but we don't expect anything to happen. We pitifully say, "all I can do is pray for you" when we should think how great it is to "pray for you". One definition of prayer is "hold communion with God". When you really commune with someone you don't do all the talking, you listen as well. God wants us to pray expecting something to happen. Ricky read several scriptures to emphasize the importance of praying. Jesus said in Matthew 21:22 "And all things, whatsoever you ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive."

On Tuesday morning, July 10, 2012, Howard Garrett sang "Mansion over the Hilltop". Carli N sang "Pray" a beautiful song that she had written. Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message from Luke 15:1-2. Jesus was associating with the publicans and sinners, those who were scorned and hated. He then told the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. When each was found, the shepherd and the woman called their neighbors to rejoice with them. What was lost was found. He read Luke 14:16-24 about the man who made the great supper. He sent invitations to come to supper, but those invited started making excuses (bought some land, bought an ox, married). God made all things ready. He sent His Son down and people wouldn't have it and made excuses. So he kept asking others to come to the table. God will question us about why we didn't ring doorbells, call people to share our witness. Even though some will slam the door in your face, others will accept the invitation. No excuses are accepted in the eyes of God.

On Tuesday evening, July 10, the adult and youth choirs sang "This Little Light of Mine". All choirs sang "I Have Been Blessed". Liberty and choirs sang "The Lighthouse" and "Here I Am" (even through a lightning strike short power outage.) Dennis Woodall sang "Wilt Thou Be Made Whole?" and "What A Day That Will Be". Rev. Josh Newberry brought the message about "fearless". He read several verses from 1 Samuel 17 about David who was fearless against the giant Goliath. He told other examples of fearless people in the Bible. In Romans 8, "If God is for us, who can be against us". Therefore, we can be fearless. There is fear for those who do not know Jesus as their Savior. You can be fearless when Jesus saves you. Praise God, Mackinsey was saved during altar call.

On Wednesday morning, July 11, Dana & Olivia & Katie sang "Let's all Go Down to the River" and "Calvary's Hill". Rev. Newberry talked about special seniors in his life as he made our seniors feel welcome today. His text was "Ye must be born again." He read John 3:1-16. Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be born again. He told about birth certificates and gave examples of the importance of natural birth certificates. However, to go to heaven we must have "a certified born again certificate" which is sealed by Jesus' blood and signed by Jesus' nail-scarred hands. Do you have the Born Again Birth Certificate sealed and signed by Jesus? After church, we enjoyed a covered dish lunch together and were so glad to see so many seniors and families with us.

On Wednesday evening, July 11, the choir sang "I've Got A Mansion" with specials. Carli and choir sang "It's So Peaceful". Other specials by Tommy & Beverly and Kasey & Ashley. Rev. Josh Newberry brought the message about flames and hell. He read the story of the wheat and tares in Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43 and Luke 16: 19- 31 about Lazarus and the rich man who died and went to hell. He also read Revelation 20:11-15. Can you feel the flames tonight? If you go to hell you'll be an intruder because you chose to go there. Jesus paid the way for us to go to heaven and that is His plan for us if we believe in Him. After altar call, testimonies, and prayer, Emily and Jordyn were saved and more singing and rejoicing continued.

On Thursday morning, July 12, Janice Tallant sang "Born to the Serve the Lord". Jacky Fortner sang "I Bowed on My Knees and Cried Holy". Rev. Kade Kelley brought the message from Isaiah 40: 31, "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength..." He told his experience of grace and about his preacher calling when he was 16 years old and how he fought it for 3 months. He spoke about how his Granny Pirkle said that we was special and would do great things. Sweet spirit was flowing all around.

On Thursday evening, July 12, the Adult Choir sang "Surely". Mackinsey, Jordyn, and Emily joined the church to be baptized. Liberty sang "Trade This Old Cross for a Crown", "There's A Miracle in Me", "I've Been a Waitin'", "Look for Me I'll Be There Too". Rev. Ricky Byrd brought the message from John 5:1-6. Jesus knew that the man had been sick for a long time (38 years) and Jesus asked him, "Wilt thou be made whole?" Jesus told him to take up his bed and walk and immediately the man was made whole. Verse 9 states that "on the same day was the Sabbath". The Jews said that it was not lawful for the man to be carrying his bed on the Sabbath. Jesus never went anywhere to put on a show. He gave glory to God. Ricky also read verses 19-29 and asked us to think about everlasting life. Liberty was asked to sing several songs at close of the service as the sweet spirit of revival continued to flow all over the place.

On Friday morning, July 13, Rev. Scott Wilbanks brought the message with text, "Am I alright with you?" He shared some testimonies of people that he has recently talked to including a woman who said she used to be a Christian but is a Buddhist now and prays 3 or 4 times a day with her face to the ground to Buddha. He read numerous names of who Jesus is in his life. (I asked for his list to share with all of you. Here it is.) Jesus is our Advocate, the Lamb of God, the Judge, the Lord of Lords, The Resurrection and Life, the Man of Sorrow, Head of the Church, Master, Faithful and True, the Rock, the Door, the High Priest, Living Water, Bread of Life, Rose of Sharon, Alpha and Omega, the Vine, Messiah, Teacher, Holy One, Mediator, the Beloved, Branch, Carpenter, Good Shepherd, Light of the World, the Word, Chief Cornerstone, Servant, Author and Finisher of my Faith, the Almighty, the Everlasting, Father, I Am, King of Kings, Prince of Peace, Bridegroom, Only Begotten Son, Wonderful Counselor, Immanuel, Son of Man, Dayspring, King of Jews, Prophet, Redeemer, the Anchor, the Bright and Morning Star, the Way, the Truth, the Life, My Lord and Savior, Jesus. He read 2 Peter 1:1-9 with the emphasis of adding to your faith with virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, charity. He also read John 21:15-17 when Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. Before we lay our head on our pillow at night, we need to repent and get ourselves cleaned up from the day. He read 2 Peter 1:13, 16. Several sweet testimonies were given. Sam Cole sang "Sanctuary".

On Friday evening, July 13, Youth Services were held at FBC. WOW!! Youth Choir sang "They Shall Walk with Me in White". Katey Rose and Caleb played the piano and organ. Junior Choir and Preschool Choir sang "Wade in the Water". Youth Choir sang "He Came Looking for Me" and "I Just Stopped on my Way Home". Elijah played a piano solo, "The Old Time Religion". Olivia sang "Watching Over Me" with her mother playing the guitar. Alexandria played a piano solo, "Blessed Assurance". Alex, Gary, and Jacob sang a song that they wrote and played their guitars, "Take Me Lord". Hailey sang "God May See A King". Jed sang and played his guitar, "He I Am to Worship". Rev. Gary Martin brought the message. Do you want to live forever? He read Matthew 19:16-22. Some of us put way more effort in not doing something than doing it. 1) If you want to miss eternal life, you need to believe that you can do it on your own. To get to heaven, you must get in through Jesus. 2) If you want to miss heaven, you must have the wrong idea about the Savior. Jesus is God's Only Son. Some may think he is just a carpenter. Jesus is the Carpenter who built a bridge from the depths of hell to heaven. 3) If you want to miss heaven, you may have the wrong idea about confessing your sin. You may think that you're above sin. 4) You get the wrong idea about your stuff that you will miss in heaven. You cannot take your stuff with you to heaven. You do need education and you need your textbook to be the Holy Bible. John Clark sang "Sweet Hour of Prayer". Caleb played piano solo "I'm Winging My Way Back Home".

On Saturday morning, July 14, 2012, Katey Rose played a piano solo, "I'm Winging My Way Back Home". Rev. Josh Newberry brought the message about happenchance. He told the story of Joseph's life. It was not happenchance that he became a leader and preserver of the Israelites. He also told that Moses' life was not happenchance when he was saved by being placed in the river in a basket as a baby. His life was preserved for God's purpose. He also talked about Naaman's life and Zaccheus' life not being happenchance. He read about blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-50 who was at the right place at the right time to be healed. He also mentioned Abraham taking Isaac up the mountain to sacrifice him. The ram caught in the thicket was not happenchance. Being at Friendship, we are at the right place at the right time. We don't understand why things happen but God knows and is in control.

On Saturday evening, July 14, 2012, Rene' Westray opened with solo, "Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place/Amazing Grace". Scott and Cynthia McWhorter sang "Almost Morning" and "I Can Only Imagine". Rene' Westray sang "Fix Me". Rev. Josh Newberry read several scriptures about the Family of God. Matthew 12:46-50, 1 John 3:1, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, Ephesians 4:4-9. In a family, when one hurts, others hurt. Our duty as a member of the Family of God is to add to the Family. He talked about David's son, Mephibosheth. As the body is one and has many members, everyone from least to greatest, youngest to oldest, are all necessary. We each have different functions in God's Family, but all work together. A family that works against each other does not function well. Get up. Sit up straight. Walk right to protect your Christian family name.

Summer Revival 2011
On Sunday evening, July 10, 2011, the Adult Choir opened with  I Am. They also sang He Is Still the Lamb. Cynthia & Scott McWhorter and Michelle Pirkle sang He'll See You Through and Precious Savior Don't Pass By. Rev. Paul Carder brought the message from Matthew 1:21 about the name Jesus. The name was sent by God through an angel to Joseph and said Fear not, Joseph. The word Jesus means Salvation. Simeon knew that Jesus was the long waited Savior. Jesus shall save his people from their sins. What is the name Jesus to you? 
 
On July 10, 2011 at 11 a.m., prayer was led by Scott McWhorter. The Junior Choir sang How Did You Feel When You Came Out of the Wilderness?   The Adult Choir sang Our God Reigns. The Liberty sang I Have No Doubt. Rev. Ricky Byrd read us a "thank you" letter from the Gideons for the donation of $959 that will buy 191 Bibles to be used by a potential of 441,140 people over the next 6 years in motels/hotels. Ricky brought the message from John 15: 1-8. He told about John 13 where Jesus was in the Upper Room with his disciples. He had shared a meal with them. In Luke 13, Jesus had begun to wash his disciples' feet. The disciples had gone through the meal. No one had washed the dirty feet because that was a servant's job. Jesus took on the task. He washed the feet of the disciples including those of Judas Iscariot. The Bible tells us to love our enemies. In John 14, Jesus tells the Comforter will come. In John 15, Jesus said, "I am the true vine; my Father is the husbandmen (farmer, vinedresser). We are the branches. Unless you abide in me, you will be taken away out of the will of God. Every branch that bears fruit, he purges it so it may bring forth more fruit." He told about whippings with hickory. The closer you are to the discipliner the less it hurts. It is the same with God. Get close to God and the purging will be less painful. ?Abide in me and I in you.? A dead vine cannot bear fruit. God does not forsake us, we forsake Him. He read Galatians 5:22-23. "Without me, you can do nothing." Those who die without having a part in the vine will lift their eyes in hell. Abide in the Vine. Ask and it shall be done. Jesus wants us to bear much fruit. He gave us a vision of how a fruit basket looks that is overflowing with fruit. That is what Jesus wants from us. The Choir met in the altar to sing a Wall of Prayer to close out the service. Sunday School attendance was 134 and offering $134. Church offering was $3372. Building fund/other was $90. Family Life Center was $262.   
 

Return to Home Page

July 14, 2006 7:45 p.m. The Youth Choir opened with ?Worship?. Prayer was led by Alex. The Youth Choir sang ?Oh What A Mighty God We Serve? & ?Holy Ground?. Carli sang ?Above and Beyond?. Kasey, Ashley, and Michelle sang ?So High?. Rev. Russ Woody brought the message from Luke 24:44-49; 25-27. God?s eternal purpose is that He might be glorified. We were put on the face of the earth to glorify God. The Bible is God?s revelation of himself. In verse 44, we know the Resurrection has already taken place. Jesus became specific and spoke about the Law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms. The stories in the Old Testament do lead to Christ. There was no ?old? testament in Jesus? time as the ?new? testament had yet to be written. Some may say the Old Testament doesn?t talk about Jesus. Read Psalm 22 which tells about the crucifixion. Isaiah 53 describes the crucifixion. Psalm 16:10 is quoted by Peter in Acts 2. The Old Testament is important to study as the whole Bible is. If you are saved, you have a role to be a witness for Jesus. Jesus was a sinless man. What is the role of the Holy Spirit? Look at John 14:16-18. The Holy Spirit gives you the power to witness for Christ.

July 14, 2006, 11 a.m. Rev. Clint Smith brought the message from Psalm 27:4-6 and Luke 18:18-22 with the text, "Something is missing." This rich new ruler realized something was missing in his life. Clint told how how he knew he was without God when he was lost. You judge being lost by what you are missing in life. When you are lost you will probably not want anything to do with the church or the preacher. There is a blueprint of how you must come to Jesus to be saved. He told about his 27 month old son missing one of his play tools. He looked everywhere for it before he came to his Dad for help. One thing above all others for Christians to do is to worship God somewhere. He talked about missing blessings because he held back. God wants 100% of our time, prayers, and study.

July 13, 2006, 7:45 p.m. The Adult Choir opened with ?We Have Come Into the House?. Greg Purcell led the opening prayer. The Adult Choir sang ?What A Day That Will Be?. Then Glenn Tribble read scripture about the cross. The Adult Choir sang ?By the Way of the Cross?. Rev. Clint Smith asked the congregation to sing ?The Promised Land?. He then read 2 Chronicles 36:11-17; Revelation 10:5-6; 20:11-15 with the thought ?There still is a remedy?. Satan is going by every bench tonight trying to pollute the church. Jesus is the only remedy to get to heaven. God has always offered his children a way out of going to hell. God has always had compassion on his people. Those burning in hell today had been given a chance to know God. With Adam, sin entered the world, but ?there has always been a remedy?. Time will end one day and everyone will stop whatever they are doing. When God returns in all His glory, it will be declared that ?time will be no more?. Hell is real. There is a remedy. If you?ve never accepted the remedy, you?ll stand before the great white throne and find ?there was found no place for them?. What saves our soul is the Blood. He also spoke of the Holy Spirit that came at Pentecost.

July 13, 2006 11 a.m. Raney Roden sang ?Sometimes? and ?The Man in the Middle?. Rev. Lee Gaddis brought the message from Ezekiel 37:13-14 with the text, ?The Lord knows?. The Lord had taken Ezekiel and showed him visions. There was a valley full of bones, the valley of dry bones. God knows the hour we are in. Ezekiel saw the bones come together and the sinews and flesh come on the bones and the skin covered them. There are a lot of ?dead bones? walking around us. Without Jesus in your life, you are walking around ?dead bones?. There is rejoicing in heaven today. Lee is thankful that his children could see a service like last night?s. God began to breathe into these ?bones? and they lived, stood on their feet, and became an exceeding great army. He read the scripture again. ?And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the Lord.? ?The Lord knows?. God knew what was going to happen with Ezekiel. Living good is knowing the Lord.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006 7:45 p.m.Rev. Gaddis said we had MEETNG tonight. Prior to the 7 p.m. choir practice, Rev. Gaddis came in and asked Robbie to announce what had happened to him. He had just been saved. We all had been praying for him and that set everything in motion. The Adult Choir opened with "I've Got Joy". Willie Meadows led the opening prayer. The choir sang "The Cross Said It All". Olivia & Jonah sang "I Love You My Child". The Sounds of Home sang "Lean On Me", "As I Am", & "Right On Time" with a few shouts of joy during their singing. Rev. Lee Gaddis was excited in his preaching as well. He read John 8:12. A woman was brought to Christ who had been caught in the act of adultery. He told us how glad he was that we had an altar in our church. He told about how he had felt when he knew he was lost. He quoted Romans 3:23. When you get down on your knees of your heart to pray, Jesus hears. He does not listen to junk. Jesus told the accusers of the woman, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." Jesus then began writing on the ground. Sin is running rampant in our county and country and even our homes. When Jesus raised up, He asked the woman where were her accusers. She said there are none. Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn thee, go, and sin no more." Jesus then told her, "I am the Light of the World". The Sounds of Home sang several songs after the sermon and the rejoicing & even shouting continued. Robbie told the congregation that he had been saved and everyone shook hands with him and his family.

July 12, 2006 11 a.m. Rev. Russ Woody led the opening prayer. Rev. Terry Cowart joked about Lee not preaching and told that he will preach at least once. Jesus started a job and went to the end. That is our job. He read several scriptures. I have glorified thee on the earth. Jesus is the Word. When Jesus received the vinegar, He said, ?It is finished?. Think about the working of God. What would we do if we had to depend on man? Men have become smart, but have not found a new way to heaven. You must have the blood of the Lamb. There must be movement and then repentance for salvation. You can come every Sunday and sit in the same place, sing, play instrument, but if you have not accepted Christ, you are lost. The preached word has to have a start and be built on a foundation to be manifested. Noah had to lay out ark and plan everything the way God instructed. After many years, he looked and said, ?It is finished?. It was built to save Noah and his family. He had to follow the plan of salvation; it cannot happen with man?s plan. Only God?s plan will work. Sometimes it only takes a small piece of the puzzle to make things happen. You could be that piece that is needed in this revival. We have all got a place and a job. When Jesus said ?it is finished?, it was just the beginning for us. There have been changes in this county. Just a little while ago, there were only Baptist, Methodist, and Holiness churches. Now there are many other ones and they are okay if Jesus is in them. Man will never find another way to heaven, but through Jesus. Terry can?t save, but he can tell you who can. The church then enjoyed a luncheon together.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006 7:45 p.m.  Hannah opened with a piano solo, "Peace in the Valley". Ashley sang a song about Jesus' Crucifixion. Dennis Woodall sang "Let Me Tell You What He Did for Me" and "I Was Filled and Fulfilled". Bealan Payne sang "I Claim the Blood". Tyler Good led prayer. Rev. Terry Cowartbrought the message. He began by telling that mothers recognize the voice of their child in a crowd. Sheep recognize the voice of their shepherd. God recognizes the voice of the mother church, Friendship Baptist. What sound is the last thing you hear before death? What sound is it going to take for you to move to know God? God loves little children. He read Naham 3:1-3; Revelation 6:1-8; 12:12. You have to be separated just a minute from your mother while Jesus saves and then you are handed right back to your mother, but saved. He told about the white horse that shows pureness. The red horse was given power and represented the blood of the Lamb. The pale horse is called Death and Hell follows. Terry preached a clear picture of what happens to someone who doesn't know Jesus as their Savior. Several testimonies were given to close this service.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006 11 a.m.  Rev. Clint Smith brought the message from Ezra 3:10-13 and 1 Kings 8:56 with the theme "Rejoicing in the start, waiting on the finish". The children of Israel had wanted a king then they did not want a king. Their lives were up and down. To ever have peace in your ife, you must be saved. In Ezra 3: 2, the first thing the people did when they returned to Jerusalem was to set up the altar. They had been in bondage and captivity and now they were home. As soon as the foundation was started, they began rejoicing, then "waited on the finish". Pray! Pray! Rejoice in the start, wait on the finish. A prayer was led by Rev. Gaddis to pray for our revival.

Monday, July 10, 2006 7:45 p.m.  Prayer was led by Rev. Paul Carder.  The Preschool Choir sang "Jesus" songs including "Jesus Loves Me".  The Junior Choir sand "I Can Only Imagine".  Kayla sang "Jesus Made A Difference in My World".  Rev. Clint Smith brought the message from Genesis 4:1-10; Matthew 23:34-36; Revelation 7:13-17 with the theme "the Blood talks".  Cain and Abel were grown. They knew about God. It was time to make a sacrifice.  Abel brought his best, but Cain did not bring his sacrifice from his heart.  The Lord rejected Cain's sacrifice.  Cain then slew Abel.  If you're lost you can hide from us, but not from God.  God asked Cain where his brother was.  Cain asked "Am I my brother's keeper?"  Abel's blood was crying out to God.  The blood of Jesus Christ is talking to you if you are lost.  Clint told about Moses telling the Israelites to place blood on the sides and over the door post.  Blood talks.  Without blood there is no remission of sin.  For the children of Israel, the day of  atonement had come.  The High Priest would carry the blood to cover the people's sin.  It did not do away with their sin, but covered them once a year until the Promised One came.  The Blood works. The Blood talks.  The woman with the issue of blood was cleansed when she touched the hem of Jesus' garment.  The Blood works.  The Blood talks.  Rev. Smith was very excited about Jesus' Blood talking. An altar prayer was led by Rev. Gerral Richards for the lost  and our revival.

Monday, July 10, 2006 11 a.m.  Prayer was led by Herbert Westray.  Hannah Cowart played "When They Ring Those Golden Bells".  Rev. Terry Cowart brought the message from 2 Samuel 23:14-15.  David was longing for a drink of water of the well of Bethlehem.  Three of his mighty men broke out and went and got the water for David.  When David got the water he had longed for, he poured it out unto the Lord.  Many before us have longed for that water. Terry told about Elijah sitting under the juniper tree.  He talked about "The Love of God" song which he and Randolph led prior to the sermon.  We are in a battle this week.  It is our job to go out and get a little water for the One we love. 

Sunday, July 9, 2006 7:45 p.m.  Prayer was led by Kenneth Ingram.  Stacy & Katie Rose sang "The Champion of Love".  Kasey sang "Stand Still and Let God Move".  Rev Terry Cowart brought the message from 1 Corinthians 13:12 and the book of Daniel.  He gave his experience of grace and told about telling his Call to preach almost 21 years ago.  Belshazzar was having a big party and was doing things he should not do and touching things that he should not touch.  He asked Daniel to read the writing on the wall.  Terry talked about parents not talking to their children about church or about being saved.  What if Jesus treated us like we treat our children?  The greatest gift a parent can give to a child is carrying them to church to hear about God and be saved somewhere.  Belshazzar was looking through a glass darkly.  We look through a glass darkly, but Jesus helps us see.  There is a heaven to gain and a hell to shun.

Sunday, July 9,2006, 11 a.m. Prayer was led by Jeff Wilbanks. Mrs. Kate Bramblett  was recognized for perfect attendance by her Sunday School teacher, Bill Bass, with a certificate and corsage. The Junior Choir sang "I'm Trading for the Joy of the Lord". Rene Westray sang "Even in the Valley". Rev. Lee Gaddis brought the message from Psalm 51:12-19. "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation" (vs 12). Have you come to a place in your life where you have forgotten your joy? Revival is to restore the joy of our salvation. Even beautiful stones become tarnished. So do Christians. Let God put the luster back in your life. David said when the joy of salvation is restored, "then will I teach transgressors thy ways" (vs13). We can teach by living. "And sinners shall be converted unto thee" (vs 13) God will send miracles. God is in the miracle business. We will not see miracles unless we look for them. For every good thing that happens, God needs the praise for it. Imogean "Jean" Stinson joined the church to be baptized at the close of the service.

Friendship Baptist Church Summer Revival will be held July 8 through July 14, 2007 with morning services at 11 a.m. and evening services at 7:45 p.m. each day. Rev Gary Coffey and Rev Jerry McCormick will be our guest preachers who will assist our pastor, Rev. Lee Gaddis..

There will be special singing each evening plus the Friendshp Choirs most evenings. Some of the guest singers will include: Tianna Phillips on Sunday evening; Scott & Cynthia McWhorter on Monday evening; Dennis Woodall on Tuesday evening; Rene Westray and Zion Hill Baptist Church Choir on Wednesday evening; The Sounds of Home on Thursday evening; Katey Rose Goss and Preschool, Junior, and Youth Choirs on Friday evening; Kasey McPherson and Ashley Washburn on Saturday evening . We hope to have other guest singers visit us and sing for us during the week.

Wednesday morning services have a special emphasis on our senior members. A covered dish lunch will be served in the fellowship building after the 11 a.m. services. All ages are encouraged to visit with our guest preachers as we fellowship together on Wednesday, July 11.

When possible, an update of each service will be placed on this front page so all can know what is happening at this most precious time of the year in our church.

Summer Revival Updates

Thursday, July 12: Rev. Paul Carter led the opening prayer. Janice Tallant sang ?Whosoever Will?. Rev. Jerry McCormick brought the message from 1 Kings 17:1-4, 7, 17-19, 21; 22: 1, 17. We need water on a regular basis. We can go without food longer than without water. The brook that Elijah was drinking from dried up. The Lord told Elijah to go to town and a certain widow woman would sustain him. Elijah asked the woman to make him a morsel of bread. They ate well for awhile and then the water dried up again. We are thankful for what we have experienced this week, but we now need to move on to help others find the living water. If we look ahead and see a better day ahead, ask God to sustain us until then. He read the story about the widow?s little boy. The soul had left this little boy. Elijah laid down upon him three times and then the soul came back into him again. Do you want to be where your soul is? We need to have a desire to be where our soul will be. Why did it take 3 times for Elijah to lie on the boy to restore him? One time was not enough. Jerry thought about the number 3 and the three crosses. One cross had not been enough. The second cross held the man who had a repentant heart and asked Jesus to remember him in paradise. Two crosses were not enough. The third cross was necessary. We are on our way to the third cross. The third time Elijah laid down, the child was revived. The first cross wouldn?t work. The second cross can tell you what will work. The third cross works. There is no natural life without physical water. There is no spiritual life without the living water of Christ. Jerry told about his personal experience of drilling a well for water at the house that he built 22 years ago.

Thursday, July 12: The Adult Choir opened with ?So You Would Know?. Rev. Russ Woody led the opening prayer. The Sounds of Home sang ?Working the Road?, ?Surely I Will Lord?, ?Out of Harm?s Way?, and ?Right on Time?. Rev. Gary Coffey brought the message from Ezekiel 3:17-21 and St. Luke 16:19-31. This is a real story about real people not a parable story. If your heart is right with God, the scripture will not offend you. What are the three things that hell has that the church is losing? The duty of the watchman in Ezekiel was to watch the city and sound the alarm if danger was approaching. (He mentioned our Emergency Broadcasting System tests on the airways.) Gary said that he is accountable every time that he stands behind the book-board to carry the message. If we see danger approaching and we have not warned someone, we are held accountable. Sometimes we get programmed too much in our churches. The story of the rich man and Lazarus is a real story not a parable. How many times have we left Jesus knocking at our door? What three things does hell have that the church is losing? The dogs had more compassion on Lazarus than the rich man. Both of the men died. The angel came and took Lazarus to heaven. The three things the church are losing: 1) tears (the people are afraid to cry or ashamed to cry in the house of God); 2) prayer (the people are refusing or failing to pray), pray a hedge around the church of God; 3) concern for the lost and dying world. When we are born, we are given a name. That name is recorded in heaven. When we reach the age of accountability, that name is blotted out and cannot be found in eternity until we are saved and given a new name. Too many babies are being fed with milk only and need to hear the Word of God. One of the torments of hell is to be able to see the splendor and glory of heaven. The rich man is still sitting in hell and seeing the glory of heaven. Those in heaven cannot see the agony of hell. There is a huge gulf dividing the two. We think of gold being precious here, but it is so common in heaven that they walk on it. We need the truth. 1) Cry. 2) Pray. 3) Get concerned. God has not changed over the years. We have changed the message. We need the Word of God to sustain us.

Wednesday morning, July 11: Prayer was led by Rupert Harris. Kasey McPherson sang ?Walk Around Me Jesus?. Rev. Lee Gaddis brought the message from 32:24-30 with a text of ?Why do we wrestle with God?? He expressed that he was still very burdened and felt that people had been in our midst during services and had left without being saved this week. We all wrestle with God at times. Jacob was left all alone and he wrestled with God (angel of God) from night until break of day. When we wrestle with God, He will come out on top. Jacob?s thigh came out of joint during the wrestle. The message is that you cannot stand alone without God. When Jacob realized he could not stand alone, the angel asked Jacob to let him go. Jacob told the angel he would not let him go until God blessed him. Don?t let go until you are saved. God blessed Jacob and gave him a new name. Rev. Terry Cowart led dismissal prayer and blessing. This was Senior Day of revival and we had several seniors as well as all ages join us for a wonderful lunch and fellowship.

Wednesday evening, July 11: Logan Purcell and Anna Bell Wallace joined the church to be baptized. Zion Hill Baptist Church Choir sang ?I Know A Man Who Can?, ?Still I Believe?, ?I Believe I?ll Go Home?, and ?I Went Down A Beggar but I Came Up A Millionaire?. Rev. Don Westray led us in prayer. Rev. Jerry McCormick brought the message from Matthew 25: 1-13 with ?advantage? as his text. He gave several examples of what we think of as advantages in our lives. The ten virgins were exactly alike. He asked us to visualize 10 beautiful girls who looked alike, wore same clothes, etc. They were ten pure people. (It could have been boys, etc. but the emphasis was that they were exactly alike.) The only difference was that five were identified as foolish and five were identified as wise. The foolish virgins asked for some oil from the wise virgins. The wise could not give them any of their oil lest they run out themselves. We who are saved cannot give part of our salvation to someone else. Jerry mentioned that coming to Sunday School is a product of being saved. It doesn?t save you. Sitting in a pew at church and coming to choir practice (and he gave other examples) does not give us an advantage for being saved. These are products of being saved. The foolish virgins went to purchase more oil, but the bridegroom came while they were gone. We do not know when Jesus is coming back, so we must be ready for whenever He comes. The five wise virgins were invited into the marriage supper, the five who had gone to get oil were told ?I know not you? and the door was shut on them. Jesus bore all that pain and suffering for sinners like us. After a lot of praying and tears, Joey found Jesus in his heart and later confessed that he had been saved. Praise the Lord!!!!

Tuesday morning, July 10: Prayer was led by Randolph Cagle. Rene Westray sang ?Amazing Grace?. Rev. Gary Coffey brought the message from Luke 18:10-14; 18-27; Romans 3:28. ?How much is a soul worth?? A soul is priceless. It cost Jesus Christ his life. Two men went into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee (man of great religion) and one a publican (tax collector). The Pharisee did not say a prayer but simply words to build himself up. We need to worry about where our own relationship is. This man prayed to himself. The publican went to his house to pray and was justified. Revival is worth it if even one is saved. This soul is priceless. The certain ruler wanted to know how to inherit eternal life. This man had kept Commandments # 5-9 and felt good about it. This man had not followed Commandment #1. This man was sorrowful when Jesus told him what he needed to do and he went away very sorrowful because he was very rich. This man is in hell because he let his possessions keep him from following God. He then talked about another rich man, Nicodemus, who had sought Jesus in the night and wanted to know how to have eternal life. Nicodemus is mentioned again later defending the man he had met in the night. ?Let the redeemed of the Lord say so.? Nicodemus also anointed Jesus? body after he died. Nicodemus is in heaven today. Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiving of sin. Our sin not only affects ourselves, it affects our family, our church, our community, etc. He spoke about the Shunamite woman whose son had a bad headache. He died. She took the child and ?slack not thy riding? to one who could help her. How much are you worth today? Toy Tallant led the dismissal prayer.

Tuesday evening, July 10: Dennis Woodall sang ?Let Me Tell You What He Did for Me? and ?What A Day That Will Be?. Kasey McPherson and Ashley Washburn sang ?That?s No Mountain for a Climber?. Rev. Lee Gaddis brought the message from St. Luke 8:5-16. ?What are you hearing? What have you heard?? Jesus explained the parable of the sower. Satan is out seeing that the Word will not be sowed. The devil will come by the way side and take away the Word ?lest they should be saved?. There are those who hear the Word, but do not do anything with it. They are saved, but then don?t go back to church. They miss the joy of being a part of the house of God. You cannot serve God and the world at the same time. The most important thing in our life is the decision we make with Jesus Christ. On the good ground, the seed will bring forth fruit. Get the ground ready, remove rocks, let the seed fall exactly where it should fall. The most precious fruit are the words, ?I?ve been saved.? Jesus came for all: the Jews and the Gentiles. Some parents came to the altar to pray and then Anna Bell Wallace came up for prayer and was saved. Praise the Lord!!

Monday, July 9, 2007, 11 a.m.: prayer was led by Phil Westray. Katey Rose Goss played ?Glory, Glory, Glory? on the piano. Betty Howard and Doris sang ?Good Morning Lord I?ve Been Waiting for You? and ?Peace?. Rev. Jerry McCormick brought the message. He began by talking about sweet peace and what a difference it would be in this world if everyone had sweet peace. He read Revelation 1:5-6; 5:9; 7:14; 12:11. All are scriptures about blood. Rev 5:9 talks about a new song. He said that Jesus is inspiring new songs today for the young people. We can give them the old hymns but there are inspired new songs also. He read Luke 8:43-44 about the woman with an issue of blood. Truth is not relevant, it is Absolute as seen in God?s Word. The woman was worried about dying when she touched Jesus? hem. Jesus really died. He rose from the grave. Satan thought he had won, but he didn?t. Jesus rose and never died again. Lazarus rose from the grave but he died again. Jesus lives forever to give us opportunity to live forever. He spoke about Adam and Eve hiding because they had disobeyed God. He said he wasn?t sure why this woman (with blood disease) was hiding, but when Jesus asked who touched Him, she stepped out and told what had happened to her. Jesus told her that ?thy faith hath made thee whole, go in peace.? Jerry told about his experience with a ruptured appendix. The Bible refers to our body as a temple. Our body can change from a vessel to a temple. He spoke about moral excellence. When we have Jesus, we can recognize wrong even when 1000 people say something is right. The love of Christ constrains us from doing wrong.

Monday, July 9, 7:45 p.m.: Prayer was led by Rev. John Roden. Scott and Cynthia McWhorter sang ?His Grace is Sufficient? and ?Don?t Pass By?. Rupert Harris sang ?Let Me Touch Him?. Rev. Gary Coffey brought the message about ?Your appetite?. He spoke of spiritual nourishment. He read St. Luke 14:16-24; Revelation 19:7-9; St. Luke 15:1-2 about the parable of a supper invitation. Two invitations were given out. The first invitation had gone out to the Jews and they would not have Him. They had been told their Redeemer was coming, but they didn?t think it was Jesus. He told about his belief in the Virgin Birth. When the supper invitations were given out, those invited started making excuses. A lot of preparation had gone into the supper. Those invited were more interested in the physical things of life (land, oxen, and wives) than the spiritual. Revival comes from a church that has an appetite for Jesus not from the preachers. People worry about what other people think but we must get past that and worry about what God thinks. The only unforgivable sin is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. We have responsibilities. Quit making excuses. We know where the food is but we are not willing to come to the table. Don?t leave the church hungry. People allow possessions to keep them from knowing God. Come and dine. Jesus has the table set. After hearing the excuses, the master sent his servant to go out into the highways and hedges to compel them to come in (go out where the real hungry are: those thrown away, drug addicts, alcoholics ...). Ask these people to come to the house of God. It?s hard to be saved if you?re not in God?s house. Children need to be fed. They need meat. Did you come to church for finger food or meat? If you have an appetite, you can be filled. Rev. Gaddis told about the heavy burden that he had for those coming to church and leaving services without being saved. After the altar call had been given and we had been dismissed for the evening, Logan Purcell came up for prayer and was saved. Praise the Lord!

Sunday, July 8, 11 a.m.service: Phil Westray led the opening prayer. The Adult Choir sang "I Just Feel Like Something Good Is About to Happen" (and it did). Rev. Lee Gaddis brought the message from St. Luke 18:18-27. He began by telling different things he likes about revival. He spoke about the outward man and the inward man. To have revival this week, put aside the outward man to see the inward man. God looks at the inward man. In this scripture, this certain ruler had kept most of the commandments. Jesus told him to give all his goods to the poor and follow him. The man was sorrowful because he didn't want to give up his riches. Who can be saved? Anyone can. Lee read verse 27 again. "The things which are impossible with man are possible with God." At close of service, Justin Padgett came up for prayer and then told us he was saved. Joyce Blevins joined the church under the watchcare.

July 8, 7:45 p.m.: Prayer was led by Kenneth Ingram. The Adult Choir sang "It Is Well with My Soul". Tianna Phillips sang "I Know My Redeemer Lives". Jim Cox led a song and invited all to join a choir he will lead to sing at Karen Peck's home in Dahlonega on July 27-28. Rev. Jerry McCormick brought the message from Hebrews 4:2. His emphasis was on "us and them". God's word must be mixed with faith. He told his experience of grace when he was saved. He gave several examples of scripture to show the difference between "us and them". Peter and Judas. Peter was in a situation of doing something terrible when he denied Christ three times but he never sold out. Judas bargained with the world. He took the silver and did something terrible. When Jesus and Peter's gazes met after the denial, Peter changed. Judas made a mistake when he betrayed Jesus. He realized he had done something terrible and went back to rulers, but he didn't ask Jesus for forgiveness. Other examples that Jerry gave, Cain and Abel; the other two on the crosses with Jesus; Elijah and th 450 prophets of Baal. What is the difference between "us and them"? One difference between "us and them" is that we can get forgiveness. He demonstrated his story about Gideon's army and decreasing the number of men. Gideon had 32,000 in his army. The Lord said that was too many. He told Gideon to send home all those who wanted to go. 22,000 left and went home. God said that is still too many. Then he told Gideon to take the men to the brook to drink water. 9700 were then dismissed because of how they drank water. They put their supplies down and then put their face in the water without watching for the enemy. The other 300 men watched carefully for the enemy as they lapped the water. Vigilance makes a difference between "us and them". The Holy Spirit tells us how to serve. When we are saved, we should stay "mixed" with word and faith (gave an example of paint mixed at store). He gave one more example of the raven and the dove that Noah sent out during the flood. The raven didn't come back to show Noah what was happening, but the dove was faithful and came back with messages about the earth. He demonstrated the dove with the olive branch in his beak.