I was a DOM for 7 years and as I traveled around to the 28 different churches in Lawrence County, I have found the biggest hindrance of church growth in the association is the attitude of unforgiveness. I have found it in the smallest of church to the biggest of church in which brothers and sisters cannot forgive one another.  Wayne Stiles shares this about unforgiveness: Would you like to hold a ...  Read More

“I just can’t talk to people about Jesus without it seeming pushy or awkward.” Ever heard that? Ever said that? Sometimes we make the whole concept of “talking about Jesus” entirely too difficult. Having a Gospel conversation with someone doesn’t mean you have to beat them over the head with the Bible – starting at Genesis and telling the entire story through Revelation.  Read More

TRUTH What is truth? Some think that it’s whatever you want it to be. The key in defining this depends on what worldview you hold to. A Biblical worldview is what really shows someone what truth really is. Truth is the Word, and the Word is Truth. You want to know how to reach anyone for Christ? The Word. In reaching people for Jesus we must point them to the Word and in doing so we will point them...  Read More

Summer is behind us and Fall is right around the corner.  That means a lot of things for a lot of people.  For some, this season represents a little rest from a hectic and fast-paced Summer.  For others, they are gearing up for football and hunting.  For most, however, it represents a return to a somewhat predictable schedule and routine that includes finding a church home or settling back into th...  Read More

I hope that this article has helped you see why I think church camp is important for children and students. When you think about it, a person only has so many opportunities to go to church camp. I will say that it is also a blessing to go and serve as a sponsor as well. Does it wear you out? Yes for sure, but it is a blessing as well. I’ll end with these ways you can be a part of camp while not attending:  Read More

Do you know the number one evangelism tool the church has today is VBS? Number two is camp. We are in the middle of the harvest season for souls. As the church sends children and youth to camp and hosts day camp and VBS, many will be challenged with the claims of Christ. That those who know Christ will be challenged to embrace Christian principles and grow in their walk.  Read More

In our culture to be in silence is not a common thing. In fact, many would say that that being in silence is uncomfortable. When we think of the discipline of solitude, it’s probably not practiced today many the masses. Solitude in Scripture is disconnecting from the chaos around us to be alone with God. We see Jesus do this all through the Gospels. If it were important for Him, shouldn’t it be important to us as followers of Him?  Read More

Whether her husband serves as the Lead Pastor, Worship Pastor, or any other pastoral role in the church, a pastor’s wife is a special calling.  Read More

What an AWESOME responsibility it is to teach children! Here are 10 reasons why I love working with children.  Read More

It is sunrise on Sunday morning and three women, Mary the mother of James, Mary Magdalene, and Salome bring spices are going to the tomb of Jesus to anoint the body for proper burial. They did not have time on the day of Crucifixion to complete the burial process because the Special Sabbath started at sundown. The women were probably the last to leave at the Cross at Golgotha and the first to come to the tomb on Sunday. There were discussing how are we going to move the stone? The stone was at least 2000 to 3000 pounds and was in a groove that sloped downward to help to seal the tomb. They were on a mission but it was going to be impossible for the three of them to move the stone!   Read More

Every day is a good day to talk about Jesus but the Easter season is especially easy to introduce others to Jesus because most everybody is already thinking about the season. The conversation starter can be as simple as "Do you have any Easter plans? How do you and your family celebrate during the Easter season?" Their answer can provide you with a wealth of information to continue the conversation and point it to Jesus.   Read More

March is always a busy time for us here at First Baptist Joplin. Easter is coming up, then the end of school, and before you know it - Summer. Summer is a season of travel, relaxation, and lots of activities. With many people taking time off from their regular routines, it can be challenging to stay connected with their church community. Fortunately, technology can help bridge this gap, and downloading our church app is an excellent way to stay connected during these busy months.  Read More