New Orleans Seminary President Chuck Kelley Announces Retirement

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New Orleans Seminary President Chuck Kelley Announces Retirement

(Photo: Facebook/Chuck Kelley)Chuck Kelley, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. On Oct. 2, 2018, Kelley announced that he was retiring from the position of president on July 31, 2019.

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary President Charles “Chuck” Kelley Jr. has announced that he’ll be retiring from his current position by the end of the academic year.

Kelley made the retirement announcement during the seminary’s Founders’ Day Chapel service on Tuesday, noting that he will continue to serve as leader of the school until July 31 of next year.

In an interview posted on the seminary’s website on Tuesday, Kelley said it was “the biggest decision of my life in a lot of ways.”

“I have been a part of almost half of the 100-year existence of NOBTS, it is very much the fabric of my whole life, and it has been a joyful, wondrous journey,” explained Kelley.

“As I look back at how intertwined my life has been with nearly half of the first century of the school, it seems appropriate to let the next leader start fresh with the second century of NOBTS.”

Kelley made his intentions to retire in advance of the service, sending a written statement to Trustee Chairman Frank Cox on Sept. 24, according to the Baptist Press.

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – The Christian Post.

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Supreme Court set to announce decision on Christian bakery in ‘gay cake’ case

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Supreme Court set to announce decision on Christian bakery in ‘gay cake’ case

Five Supreme Court justices will announce their decision in London on Wednesday 10th October.

Their ruling follows the latest round of a legal action brought against family-run Ashers bakery in Belfast by gay rights activist Gareth Lee, who won his case initially in the county court and then at the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal.

 

The bakery went on to fight the finding of discrimination at a Supreme Court hearing in Belfast in May.

Owners Daniel and Amy McArthur have said the law risked “extinguishing” their consciences.

 

During the Supreme Court proceedings, the panel of justices including president Lady Hale, were told that the owners were being forced to act against their religious beliefs.

David Scoffield QC, for Ashers, argued that the state is penalising the baking firm, with the courts effectively compelling or forcing them to make a cake bearing a message with which they disagree as a matter of religious conscience.

Brian Lawless/PA Wire

 

The legal action against Ashers was taken by Mr Lee with support from Northern Ireland’s Equality Commission.

Controversy first flared when Mr Lee…

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Premier Christianity News.

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Brad Paisley and Wife Partner with Christian University to Open Free Grocery Store for Families in Need

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Brad Paisley and Wife Partner with Christian University to Open Free Grocery Store for Families in Need


Brad Paisley and Wife Partner with Christian University to Open Free Grocery Store for Families in Need


Country music star Brad Paisley and his wife have partnered with a Christian university to serve the Nashville community.


Paisley and his wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley have collaborated with Belmont University in Tennessee to set up a free grocery store called “The Store.”


The Store is partnering with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee along with several other organizations who have the collective hope of being able to provide food – fresh and nonperishable – to 3,000 people each year.


The family hatched this idea last Thanksgiving when Paisley’s wife noticed that their children were acting a bit spoiled. To educate their kids on the hardships of others, the family went down to a non-profit organization called Unity Shoppe where they offer free groceries and clothing year-round to people in need.


“We came away surprised by what the organization had taught us,” Paisley explained according to Relevant Magazine. “Most people don’t want handouts. They want dignity and respect. Most people just want to become self-sufficient.”


This idea of being able to provide for people while also helping them maintain their dignity inspired Paisley and his family, leading them to open The Store. Paisley told The Tennesseean, “This is a grocery store with dignity for people who have fallen on hard times….

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Click here to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Christian Headlines.

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Why Church Revitalization Will Increase Pastoral Tenure

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SUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play

Revitalization is on the upswing, and with it, so is pastoral tenure. While these may not be in a causative relation, they certainly do compliment one another. Today, we discuss why.

Today’s Listener Question:

FROM TIMOTHY

Are pastors starting to stay longer at churches with a commitment to revitalize them? Or is there still a sense of ladder climbing in the ministry? Anecdotally, it seems that the ladder climbing has abated when it comes to younger pastors.

Episode Highlights:

  • Younger pastors tend to value different things in ministry than the generation before them. Ladder climbing isn’t as prevalent as it once was.
  • More and more Millennial pastors are going into revitalizations for the long haul.
  • Church revitalization is becoming something that pastors actually want to do. It is a noble call.
  • Revitalization pastors need a network of peers to help fight loneliness and frustration.

The five reasons we discuss are:

  1. More younger pastors have a long-term call to revitalization
  2. More retiring boomers have a long-term call to revitalization
  3. Most leaders understand the incremental nature of revitalization
  4. Revitalization is increasingly perceived to be an honorable calling
  5. There are more revitalization networks

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

Revitalize & Replant is sponsored by the North American Mission Board and ChurchReplanters.com. More than 10% of churches in North America are at risk of closing…

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Click here to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Thom Rainer.

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Is a “civil war in America” looming?

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Is a “civil war in America” looming?

Does watching the news cause you stress? If so, you’re in the majority, according to the American Psychological Association.

Responding to the vitriol of our day, New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman warns that a “civil war in America” may be coming if we cannot find a way out of the tribalistic political and cultural fracturing that threatens our future.

I think I can explain a foundational reason for the divisive angst of our day. Then I’d like to offer a surprising way forward I discovered recently.

Who’s to blame?

This morning’s Wall Street Journal reports that the White House has reviewed the FBI’s probe into Judge Brett Kavanaugh and finds no corroboration of sexual misconduct allegations. Senators are set to review the FBI’s findings today.

Why has Judge Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court nomination evoked such visceral reaction? The late Antonin Scalia’s son has an explanation.

Christopher Scalia recently pointed to the oversized power of the Supreme Court in contemporary America. In his view, the Court has preemptively settled cultural issues that should have been resolved in elections–Roe v. Wade and the 2015 same-sex ruling are examples.

According to Sen. Ben Sasse, the blame lies largely with legislators who have delegated authority on divisive issues to the executive branch or the judiciary. This is a good strategy for lawmakers who want to get reelected by skirting controversy. But it is a bad strategy for a republic whose governance intends such issues to be decided by leaders directly accountable to the people.

With three current Supreme Court justices aged seventy and older, it is predictable that we will see more fights over future nominations. And more fights over who should nominate and confirm them.

How did we get here?

Abraham Maslow’s famous “hierarchy of needs” begins with the physical (air, water, food, rest, and health). It proceeds upwards to security (safety, shelter, stability), social (being loved, belonging, inclusion),…

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Denison Forum.

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Thousands set to take part in ‘bring your Bible to school’ day

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Thousands set to take part in ‘bring your Bible to school’ day

A campaign sponsored by Christian organisation Focus on the Family is calling on youngsters to share a picture of themselves online with their Bible at school, using the hashtag #bringyourbible as the caption.

American Christian actress Sadie Robertson is the honorary co-chair for the event, who’s had roles in I’m Not Ashamed and God’s Not Dead 2.

 

She shared a video of herself encouraging youngsters to join in with the campaign to her 1.8 million followers on Twitter.

Robertson posted on Instagram: “Join with me in encouraging these AMAZING students who are saying ‘yes’ to bringing God into the tough situations-even at school!

“Support the movement; sign up to have a chance to win a trip to meet me in person-how cool!”

 

People all over the states have already started sharing images online of themselves holding Bibles.

The organisers of the campaign claim that last year nearly 500,000 students brought their Bibles to school following the appeal.

Matthew, 17, told Focus on the Family: “At my school, I see so many of my classmates acting and making choices like the Bible is just some random book.

“I was excited for the chance to share my faith and stand up for what I believe in. This, to me, was the least I can do for God.”

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this…

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Premier Christianity News.

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RCCG Sunday School TEACHER’s Manual 7 October 2018 Lesson Six – Be Holy

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RCCG Sunday School TEACHER’s Manual 7 October 2018 Lesson Six – Be Holy

TOPIC: Be Holy

OPENING PRAYER: Father, help me to be holy in all manner of conversation. (Scroll down for RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL 7 OCTOBER 2018 HYMN)

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Teacher should allow two (2) students to review the two (2) lesson outlines for the previous week.

MEMORY VERSE: “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;” – 1 Peter 1:15 (scroll down for RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL 7 OCTOBER 2018 HYMN)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalms 15:1-5 (RCCG Sunday School TEACHER’s Manual 7 October 2018)

1 (A Psalm of David.) LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?

2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.

3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.

4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.

5 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.

INTRODUCTION: The journey to holiness begins with a total submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit. God is holy and cannot condone sin. Isaiah 59:2 because everything about him is holy. 1 Peter 1:16. Hence, believers are commanded to live holy in order to be like God. Matthew 5:48. To fulfill this mandate, believers must understand the reasons for holy living and the benefits that accompany it.

LESSON AIM: To study the reasons and benefits of Holiness to believers.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through the lesson, students should be able to:
(i) Understand why believers must be holy.
(ii) Discover the benefits of holiness.

TEACHING PLAN: To achieve the above-stated objectives, teachers should allow:
(i) Students to take the opening prayer, recite the memory verse, contribute and participate in the teaching, do class activities and assignment.
(ii) Assistant teacher to conduct the class, mark attendance, grade performance and mark the assignment.
(iii)Teach outlines, administer class activities, summarize, conclude, evaluate and give assignment.

TEXT REVIEW: PSALMS 15:1-5 “HOLINESS OR NOTHING”
The Psalmist enumerated the requirements to enjoy constant fellowship with the Lord. The two (2) key words in verse 1, “abide” and “dwell” suggest intimate relationship and fellowship with God. Who is this person that would satisfy the conditions? The Amplified Bible version would be consulted as witness.
(i) He/she must be blameless (uprightly). Verse 2.
(ii) He/she must do justice and speak and think truth from the heart. Verse 2.
(iii) He/she must not slander. Verse 3.
(iv) He/she must not do evil to friend or reproach neighbor. Verse 3.
(v) He/she does not honour morally low or despicable person. Verse 4
(vi) He/she honours those who reverence and worship God. Verse 4.
(vii) What so ever he says, he is bound by it. Verse 4.
(viii) He/she does not put out his money for interest. Verse 5.
(ix) He/she does not take bribe against innocent. Verse 5.
Judging from the above requirements, you can determine those who are qualified to be truly called holy person and who deserve honour. But the truth is that whatever separates a believer from being holy has taken away the person from divine presence and riches. What is left for such believer is nothing. Jesus said, “… for

TEACHING METHOD: Teacher should use lecture teaching method.

TIME MANAGEMENT: Teacher to apply time allocation for two (2) lesson outlines.

LESSON OUTLINE 1: WHY BELIEVERS MUST BE HOLY?

Teacher should explain to students, reasons why believers must be holy.
(i) God is holy. Leviticus 20:26.
(ii) God commands believers to be holy and perfect Genesis 17:1; Ephesians 1:4.
(iii) God only uses holy vessels to reach to sinners. 2 Timothy 2:21.
(iv) Holiness is a necessity to do exploits and do greater works. John 14:12. (v) Holiness is the crucial requirement to fellowship with God (God does not fellowship with sinners). 1 John 1:3-7.
(vi) Holiness is divine qualification to see God. Hebrews 12:14.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention enemies of holiness and suggest how to deal with them.

LESSON OUTLINE 2: BENEFITS OF HOLINESS

Teacher should identify and explain some of the benefits of holiness as indicated below:

(I) Opportunity to receive classified information from God. Genesis 18:17; Amos 3:7; Psalms 25:14
(ii) Holy believers enjoy divine protection and defense. Proverbs 16:7.
(iii) Holy believers have peace because God made their enemies to be at peace with them. Proverbs 16:7.
(iv) Holy believers enjoy divine blessings and long life. Deuteronomy 28:1; Proverbs 3:1-2; 4:10.
(v) Holy believers enjoy divine presence of God here on earth and in the eternity. Psalms 24:3-5.
(vi) God answers the prayers of holy believers. Luke 1:13; Psalms 34:15,17. (vii) The future of holy believers is secured. Isaiah 3:10; Jeremiah 29:11.
(viii) Holy believers enjoy divine health and supernatural prosperity. Exodus 15:26; Psalms 92:12.
(ix) Holy believers enjoy victory. Deuteronomy 28:7. (x) Holy believers receive supernatural anointing to promotion, success, etc. Hebrew 1:9.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What are the basic requirements for holiness?
SUMMARY: You must be holy because God is holy.
CONCLUSION: Living holy must be the yearning of every true believer. Matthew 5:6. Always strive to live holy.
EVALUATION: What are the benefits of holiness to believers?
CLOSING PRAYER: Let me be holy until l meet you in glory.
ASSIGNMENT: Mention ten (10) consequences of lack of holiness to unholy people. 2 marks for each pair of related point.

NOTE:
Flatimes.com EMPLOYS EVERYONE TO PURCHASE THE HARD COPY TO SUPPORT RCCG EDUCATION (SUNDAY SCHOOL DEPARTMENT). THE SOFT COPY (ONLINE) IS JUST TO HELP EASY ACCESS. GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU DO SO.

Read previous RCCG Sunday School Teacher’s Manual Here

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL 7 OCTOBER 2018 HYMN

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

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CAFOD, Christian Aid, Tearfund and World Vision join forces for new Indonesia appeal

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CAFOD, Christian Aid, Tearfund and World Vision join forces for new Indonesia appeal

A fundraising campaign is being launched on Thursday – six days after the 7.5 magnitude tremor and wave which have left more than 1,500 people presumed dead, missing or injured.

It is being spearheaded by the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Christian Aid, Tearfund and World Vision – along with ten other member groups on the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC).

 

The DEC Indonesia Tsunami Appeal comes as authorities fear the number of fatalities, casualties and people displaced will rise in the coming days.

Chief executive, Saleh Saeed said: “DEC member charities and their local partners are working closely with the Indonesian authorities to get aid to those who urgently need it, as well as helping survivors to cope with the trauma of the last few days.

“As the full scale of the disaster unfolds, they are providing emergency relief and are ready to help devastated communities to rebuild their lives.

 

“There is an urgent need for clean drinking water, food, medical care and shelter.

“Please give generously and let’s save the survivors.”

Rescuers have…

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Premier Christianity News.

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Netflix to create new TV series and films from the Chronicles of Narnia

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Netflix to create new TV series and films from the Chronicles of Narnia

The streaming service has signed a multi-year deal with The C.S. Lewis Company to develop the classic stories from across the fictional Narnia universe.

The deal marks the first time that rights to all seven books penned by Lewis, including The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, have been held by the same company.

 

Douglas Gresham, the author’s stepson, said in a statement: “It is wonderful to know that folks from all over are looking forward to seeing more of Narnia, and that the advances in production and distribution technology have made it possible for us to make Narnian adventures come to life all over the world.

“Netflix seems to be the very best medium with which to achieve this aim, and I am looking forward to working with them towards this goal.”

The Narnia books have sold more than 100 million copies and been translated in more than 47 languages worldwide.

 

Ted Sarandos, chief content officer at Netflix, said: “C.S. Lewis’ beloved Chronicles Of Narnia stories have resonated with generations of readers around the world.

“Families have fallen in love with characters like Aslan and the entire world of Narnia, and we’re…

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Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Premier Christianity News.

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Joyce Meyer Devotional 4 October 2018 — Expect a Turnaround

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Topic: Expect a Turnaround [Joyce Meyer Devotional 4 October 2018]

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present outcome, that many people would be kept alive [as they are this day]. — Genesis 50:20 (AMP)

This verse is part of the story of how God promoted Joseph to a place of power after his brothers had sold him into slavery. It is a great testament to God’s desire and ability to overcome evil with good.

Joseph’s brothers meant to destroy him, but Joseph became second in command to Pharaoh and was used by God to save not only his own family but many thousands of others.

Sometimes you forget how big your God is. Whatever may have happened to you in the past, you must understand it doesn’t have to dictate your future. Set your faith and trust in God and watch to see how He will turn it around for your good. Rejoice! God has a good plan for your life.

Prayer Starter: Father, thank You that You are fair, even when life’s not fair. Help me to put the past behind me and trust You to work everything out for my good. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

If you missed yesterday devotional, please click to read “Joyce Meyer Daily Devotional HERE’’

From Joyce Meyer’s Ministries.

The post Joyce Meyer Devotional 4 October 2018 — Expect a Turnaround appeared first on Flatimes.

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