First Baptist Church of Lindale, GA

John 20:24-29The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation for faith and the motivation for ministry. The resurrection of Jesus is the central event around which Chritianity exists. If there was no resurrection of Jesus, witnessing would be worthless and faith fruitless.The resurrection validates Jesus' identity as God.The resurrection confirms the cancellation of sin's penalty for those who believe.The resurrection encourages the hope of eternal life.Because Jesus lives we can face the future without fear and the unknown without uncertainly.

Romans 5:8-9The clearest picture of Christ's passion is seen on the cross.The cross expresses God's love for sinners.The cross is the experience of judgement for sin.He loved you with the cross.

Luke 19:9Jesus desires to have a personal relationship with you now and forever!Jesus came to rescue us from our sinful condition.Jesus came to give our lives significance and meaning. (John 10:10)Jesus is preparing a place for us the spend forever with Him. (John 14:2)

Mark 5The joy of experiencing the power of Christ.The joy of expressing the power of Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:16-21To reconcile with someone you're astranged from can be very difficult. This week, Eric shares what scripture says about our broken relationship with God and the lengths God has taken to reconcile the world to Himself. He made the first move. He did all the work. This is why the gospel is truly good news!

John 3:16Everyone is hoping to find the perfect love and experience the perfect love.God loves you specifically - You are always on His mind and never out of His sight!God loves you sacrificially - He gives without limitation or reservation!God loves you stategically - Orchestarting people and events in your life!You can experience the perfect love!

Luke 10:29-37Love is a decision to do someting to meet needs!Love is more than a casual interest. It is compassionate involvement.Love is more than a cheap intention. It is a costly investment.

Luke 5:17-26Love is taking action. Let's learn from four people who were willing to do whatever it took to make a difference in soneone's life!Love is willing to CARE.C - ConcernA - AvailableR - ResourcefulE - Enthusiastic"People don't care how much you know 'til they know how much you care." - John MaxwellLove embraces creativity, coloring outside the lines of convenience, comfort zones, and complacency.Love is ready for commitment - care and concern without commitment are just good intentions.Are you willing to do what it takes to reach people?

Many voices call to us to take paths and make choices that lead us in the wrong direction. However, there is one voice that calls us to a place of forgiveness and a position in Christ - it is God's voice calling us home!The parable of the Father's love for the wasteful and the prideful sons illustrates a love that can bring you from where you are to where He is!The secuction of a distant country - offering independence and indulgence.The seriousness of a destructive condition - no family, no friends, no food, no future.The surrender to a divine call - change direction, find compassion, and experience the celebration.Are you ready to come home?

1 Peter 4:10-11Peter has instructed followers of Christ to "pray with clear mind" in a world that is filled with confusion, to "love deeply" in a love cold atmosphere, and to "offer hospitality" in a selfsih culture. His last instruction is to "serve each other" with our spiritual gifts.We are to display divine favor individually for the benefit of the entire body.We are to demonstrate divine function personally for the purpose of building up the church body for the glory of God through Christ.What is your gift?How can you plug in?

1 Peter 4:9Jesus said that before His coming, people would live self-indulgent, self-centered lives in an environment of unkindness to others, just as in the days of Noah before the flood. In the environment of materialism and unkindness, Peter instructs followers of Christ to be hospitable to each other.Hospitality is practical kindness.Hospitality provides comfort and kindness in a chaotic and unkind culture.Hospitality promotes connection and change for the kingdom of God.In what ways can you offer hospitality?To whom will you offer hospitality?

1 Peter 4:8Jesus told His disciples that when the coming of His kingdom was near, that people would become cold hearted toward each other because of a growing evil atmosphere (Matt 24:12). Peter instructs followers of Christ to love one another!We must work to love each other for warmth in a cold world.Life is a battlefield and we are the target! Love each other.We should let love work to provide acceptace, forgiveness, and restoration in a painful world.They will know we are christians by our love!

1 Peter 4:7-11Peter believed the return of Christ was imminent in his lifetime. Even more, we should anticipate our Savior & King's return any day. We now have a 28 year old dictator ruling over North Korea. We have an egomaniac ruling Iran. We have terrorism operating in the Middle East and throughout the world. The economy is weak worldwide and the moral atmosphere in our time could be compared to the time of Noah before the flood.What if we were the last generation of Christians on earth before the end? How should we live? Over the next few weeks, we will be talking about 4 essentials to be lived out here at FBC Lindale.The first is prayer.We need to commit ourselves to the priority of prayer.We must consecrate ourselves for the purpose of prayer.We can experience conquest through the power of prayer."A prayerful person is a fearful weapon in the hands of a Holy God." - Robert Murray McCheyne

Matthew provides an interesting insight into the family tree of Jesus. This is the original Christmas tree. This is a tree that reveals and reflects incredible grace and love!Once person stands out as such an illustration of grace - Rahab.Rahad has a place in the tree for all to know and see.Rahab has a part in the eternal plan and purpose of God.

Micah 5:1-5At the beginning of November, retailers were promoting that Christmas is coming. All with the purpose to reach our wallet. The prophet Micah told us Christmas was coming with the purpose of reaching our heart!The specific announcement: Jesus would be born in a time of national distress in the little town of Bethlehem.The perconal application: Jesus is our everlasting shepherd, our eternal security, and our enduring serenity.

2 Timothy 1:8-10In preparation for Thanksgiving, Pastor Tim shares the gratitude that all believers should show for the gift of grace.

2 Timothy 2:8-10The key to coming out of the various crises of life is FOCUS. We must focus on what really matters! Paul encourages Timothy with 2 principles that will always make a difference.Focus on Jesus, our living Lord, who guarantees eternal life & reward.Focus on the power of the Gospel that can't be contained.

2 Timothy 1:13-18In a time of crisis and challenge, the temptation is to pull back. Paul is encouraging followers of Christ to lean in and move forward.

Exodus 17-8:16This week, Eric shares a story from Exodus that reveals the important role that Moses played as the leader of Isreal and the element that was needed for God to bring vicotry to his people. What does FBC Lindale need to do to for God to provide victory in the battles we face?

Webster defines "crisis" as a "crucial time" and a "turning point in the course of anything." Crisis are turning points in our lives to move us either forward or backward. In a time of crisis we operate less efficiently and off balance, reflect a high level of stress, an attitude of panic or defeat and an unhealthy focus on relief. Yet in Paul's crisis, he has an amazing confidence that relieves his stress and restores his balance.Let's look at 2 principles that bring confidence in a time of personal crisis:Trust Jesus as your Savior and your Shepherd with your life.Trust Jesus to guard the purpose and production of your labor.

2 Timothy 2:6We are to work faithfully for people to become followers of Christ and for followers of Christ to become disciples that will have positive influence and impact on the home, the church and the marketplace.The farmer is characterized by diligence.The farmer is diligent to work the fields regardless of the climate and no matter the cost.The farmer is diligent in the patience and planning with the hope of bringing glory to God and for the joy of the farvest.We are farmers for the kingdom of God.

2 Timothy 2:5Paul encourages Timothy to live out his faith with the character of an athlete. Athletes are characterized by discipline. Discipline is the difference in being a participant or being a spectator.Discipline is evident in 2 ways:First, in our compliance with God's requirements to walk in humility, love completely, serve faithfully, and give cheerfully.Second, in our commitment to the race, regardless of the crowd's compliments or criticism, recognizing we run for the applause of God.

2 Timothy 2:3-4Timothy was discouraged because of the opposition and hardship he was facing. Paul reminds him that the Christian life is a battleground, not a playground! Times change, but the battle is the same. The model soldier is characterized by devotion.There must be devotion to the Captian of our salvation, Jesus Christ.There must be devotion to the cause of the kingdom even through crises or conflict.Devotion reveals our measure of love and loyalty.

2 Timothy 1:7The smallest of fears can become the greatest of barriers in experiencing an abundant life.Fear is costlyFear disregards God's plan.Fear distorts God's purposeFear discourages God's peopleFear dismisses God's promisesFear disobeys God's principlesFear is conquerableOur will is to be influenced by the Holy Spirit.Our heart is to be motivated by God's love.Our mind is to be renewed by disciplined thoughts from Scripture and prayer.If you're afraid of living where the Lord is leading, cultivate your relationship with Him.

Genesis 3:7-10God’s design for us is to know Him and be with Him forever. However, fear prevents us from fulfilling our destiny and purpose. It is fear that drives us to hide from God in the bushes!HIDING IN THE BUSHES•The bushes of blame: “It’s not my fault.”•The bushes of success: “Look what I can do.”•The bushes of pleasure:“I’m having fun.”•The bushes of pain: “I don’t deserve joy.”•The bushes of religion: “I can impress God.”HIDING BEHIND THE BLOOD•The blood reveals profound grace.•The blood releases perfect love.All bushes are temporary, but the blood of Jesus is forever!

Revelation 1:8; Daniel 2:19-21God is not only ever present, He is continually active bringing about His ultimate purpose.God was there at the conception of nations.God is here during the crises of people.God will be there at the conclusion of life.If the love of Christ rules in our lives we don’t have to be afraid.

Followers of Christ are not just survivors, we are more than conquerors! No matter the valleys or villains we face, we are destined to stand on the mountain top.If God is for us:His destiny for us is unstoppable because of the ultimate price given for salvation and the unique provision available for glorification.He defense for us is undeniable because His hand will never lef go of us and His heart will never turn from us.His declaration for us is irrevocable because Jesus' work is complete concerning sin and Jesus' Word is final concerning our status.His divine love for us is inseparable because nothing or no one has power to disrupt His love.We cannot lose if we have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

At the request of the Cook Family, we are pleased to share the sermons of Eric Whelchel and our Pastor, Tim Burnham, that were shared at the Celebration of Bonnie's Life. We pray that you will find answers and encouragement in God's Word and be challenged by the life that Bonnie lived. Recordings of the full service (music included) are available on CD through our Church Office. You may call our office at 706-232-7088 or email [email protected] and request a copy at no charge.

James 4:13-17No one is promised tomorrow. Everyone is guaranteed an eternity.You can live in the danger of perilous assumption in believing I can control my life and I have plenty of time.We are always complaining that our days are few and acting as though there would be no end to them.You can live in the delight of peaceful action by acknowledging God’s will in everything and by seizing the day because it could be your last.Destiny is not a matter of chance; it’s a matter of choice.Everyone is guaranteed an eternity!God invites you to spend it with Him!

Colossians 1:3-6CHARACTERISTICS:1. The church should be known for a faith that is soundly defined (1:3-4)A faith that is centered in who Jesus is. 1. Jesus is God 2. Jesus is the Creator of all things 3. Jesus is the Head of the churchA faith that is centered in what Jesus has done (1:13-14, 19-20). 1. He redeemed us from sin and reconciled us to God2. The church should be known for a love that is splendidly manifested (1:3-4)3. The church should be known for a hope that is securely deposited (1:5)4. The church should be known for a fruit that is clearly evident (1:6)

Luke 7:36-50In the comparison of these two lives we can see the contrast in being religious or have a relationship with Jesus. ONe is a life of discconnection and the other is a life connection.The failure of Simon to connect with Jesus. His disconnection is evident in four ways:1. Conceited assumption2. Callous affection3. Casual acquaintance4. Careless attitudeThe faith of the sinful woman that made the connection with Jesus is evident in four ways:1. Personal abandon2. Public acknowledgement3. Priceless adoration4. Peaceful assuranceHave you experienced the connection with Jesus that can change your life?

Luke 10:29-37Connection that counts requires engaging and encountering people where they are. It's being a good neighbor!Jesus answers a relevant question for today with three types of encounters:Perfect indifference is the willingness to just pass by without connecting.Practical interest is the unwillingness to stop and do something to connect.Passionate involvement is the willingness to find a way to connect.God saw us as His neighbor, robbed of righteousness, alone and spiritually dying without hope. Jesus came to our side of the road and brought us to life at the expense of His life on the cross.

Psalm 142:4It has been said by those who study human behavior that the number one epidemic facing our culture today is loneliness.Observations in the epidemic of loneliness:1. Loneliness exists in suffering and sin.2. Loneliness exists in success and service.Opportunities for the escape from loneliness:1. Fellowship with believers.2. A relationship with Jesus.What a friend we have in Jesus!

James 5:12-18This is about talking with God. Our time in conversation with God reflects our measure of faith, our depth of love, and our level of maturity in our spiritual life.Prayer fot he suffering and sick claims the promises of God and calls for the power of God.Pray for salvation of those without Christ and for strength for those who are struggling.

Galatians 5:22-25This week, Pastor Tim shares about how patience helps us deal with the difficulties of real life.

2 Corinthians 4:7-11, 16-18When everything seems to be going wrong, do you ever want to scream, "Why me?!"Three explanations for suffering:1. The devil's delight as he uses schemes and methods to attack and disrupt our spiritual journey.2. The development of Christlike character, personal ministry and spritual mindset.3. The discovery of our limitations and the revelation of God's glory and greatness.

Proverbs 11:10-11

Tim shares a simple acrostic characterizing the qualities of a God father.

Psalm 144Tim shares the importance of remembering those who have stood on a wall for our country's freedom as well as the promise for freedom in Christ.

Selected ScripturesBefore we can be effective in doing big things for God that seem so hard, we must be faithful in the easy things. This week, Eric shares 2 easy things that can revolutionize your relationship with God.

Philippians 2:14-18We live in a culture that is star struck! Millions watch "Dancing with the Stars" for weeks, anxiously waiting for who will crowned the star of the show. Millians are preoccupied with "American Idol" casting votes every week hopeing to usher in the next music star.Paul tells us how to become a spiritual star that breaks through the darkness and reflects the glory of our God and Creator.First, conquer the habit of complaining!It's a sin that negatively effects your relationship with God and others.It's a heart attitude that sours your disposition and diminishes your light."We don't always change when we see the light but we usually do when we feel the heat."Next, avoid the instinct to argue!Arguing reflects an arrogant attitude that is disruptive and destruction in our church, at our work, in our home, and in our relationships.Arguing discredits our witness."To dwell above with saints we love, that will be grace and glory; but to live below with saints we know, not that's a different story!"Finally, respond to the challenges, circumstances, and conflicts of life with rejoicing!In a negative culture, anyone who is positive shines like the North Star in the darkest of nights.A complaining Christian is a poor witness, a disputing church is a poor witness, but a joyful Christian and a rejoicing church is a powerful witness.

This week, Tim shares from the heart encouragement for mothers and reflection on the unique way God designed our mothers to care for us.

Acts 1:8Aster is not a conclusion that is celebrated annualy. It is an exclamation that can be celebrated daily.Followers of Christ can walk with a new strength for the daily grind - it is the power of the Holy Spirit.Followers of Christ can witness with a new story of hope and transformation.Every day can be like Easter because Jesus lives in us and never leaves us!

John 21:12-19The rresurrection of Jesus is more than an historical event. The resurrection is what compels us to be more than a fan of Christ, it calls us to be a follower of Christ!Wake up to your real life purposeWake up to His resurrection powerAre you a fan or a follower?

Galatians 6:14The cross was not an accident, but an intentional act of God!The cross is God's passionate declaration of love.The cross is God's powerful deliverance of life with peace and purpose.

Romans 12:3-5The miracle of a community of believers, we call the Church, is that from different backgrounds, diverse abilities, and distinctive personalities. We serve together for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.Two essential elements for a miraculous ministry:The gifts of grace distributed by the Holy Spirit for cooperation, not comparison.The measure of faith developed by the Holy Spirit for conquest, not competition.Our service connects us to each other and God's purpose for His glory.

Acts 12:5The greatest resource in the body of Christ is not human ingenuity or human imagination. It's not programs or personalities. If we desire heavenly solutions for earthly impossibilities, if we hope to have an atmosphere where God can work...we must pray."Prayer is not first man's trying to get through to God. It is first an opening up to God, who is trying to get through to us." - Charlie W. SheddDesperation before God that admits our limitations and invites God's intervention.Dependence on God that leans on His power..."weakness leaning on omnipotence." -W.S. Bowden.It's not just about the results, it's also about the journey that comes from prayer.

Romans 12:1Do you serve Christ out of obligation and drudgery, or out of overflow of gratitude for all He is and has done?

Luke 12:35-46Jesus has said His coming to earth again would be like a theif in the night. For some it will be the opening of the door to the glory and richness of eternity; for some it will be the closing of the door on life and joy being left on the outside looking in.The priority of life is to be ready when Jesus comes inexpectedly and unannounced.The tragedy of life for those who are not ready is the unbearable seperation and indescribable suffering.Are you ready?

Matthew 9:36-38Where is here? Missions start in the heart.Missions start at home.Compassion is the motivation for action to go and to give.Commitment to prayer is the means for advancement of the kingdom.