First Baptist Church of Groton

Smokey Mountains

2012-01-28T18:37:00.003-05:00

Our cabin in Sevierville while visiting our daughter Karyn her husband Jason, their son Isaiah and the new twin girls in TN

Neyland Stadium

2012-01-28T18:29:00.003-05:00

Stopped for a minute to visit the famous Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, TN...the town revolves around the Tennessee Vols!

Bailey

2012-01-27T10:22:00.002-05:00

Audrey

2012-01-27T10:16:00.002-05:00

Enjoying a few days in TN with our Grandkids

2012-01-27T09:01:00.004-05:00

Took Isaiah to the Gatlinburg aquarium Tuesday and we had Ginny all day Thursday.

Granddaughters

2012-01-24T11:26:00.003-05:00

Grampy with Bailey and Audrey

Our Fuel Oil Delivery Man

2012-01-19T09:30:00.002-05:00

In the fall of 2010 my son-in-law Aaron McCarthy met Bill when he came out to his house to deliver fuel oil. It was obvious then that Bill was searching. Bro McCarthy invited Bill and his family to attend a Sunday service at FBC of Groton. Bill said that he was familiar with our church and he even remembered attending Vacation Bible School as a youngster. He did not come on Aaron's invitation but some good seeds were planted.

In October of 2011 (one year later) the church sent Bill an invitation to attend Friend Day on Sunday, October 30, 2011. Bill finally came with his wife and teenage daughter. They have been attending FBC ever since and are presently in a discipleship class during the Sunday school hour. This Sunday, January 22, the family will be baptized. We are rejoicing in their spiritual growth!

Pastors Wives' Fellowship

2012-01-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Pastors Wives' Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for full-time ministry wives to get together on common ground for strength, encouragement, and good fellowship. The testimonies from the meeting last year were positive and many expressed their excitement for the Fellowship to return. Join Laura Faulk at the Pastors Wives' Fellowship on January 28 and hear Ginnie Crichton from Greater Rhode Island Baptist Temple in Johnston, RI and

Kay Messer from Victory Baptist Church in Londonderry, NH.

A hearty lunch will be served!

RSVP TODAY at laurafaulk@charter.net or 978-272-1335

THE WALK OF FAITH

2012-01-15T20:52:00.019-05:00

PART 1

Very little is recorded about Enoch. However we can trace down three major events about this man of God from 3 different references (Ge 5:21-24; Heb 11:5; & Jude 14-15).

Enoch was Translated - The word “translated” comes from a Greek word that means “to transport, to exchange, to change sides.” Enoch cheated death…and it is clear that the Apostle Paul concurs with Moses in Gen 5. In other words the language is the same!
Enoch Prophesied - It is obvious from Jude 14-15 that Enoch was a prophet and he is predicting the coming of the Lord and His judgment upon the ungodly.
Enoch Walked with God - Heb 11:5, “…before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” We know very little about Enoch’s life that would explain his faith…what we do know is summarized in one statement found twice in Ge 5 “Enoch walked with God.” In other words his life “pleased God.” Enoch walked in step with God. Enoch walked in harmony with God.

Amos 3:3, "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"
Several thoughts to help you walk in harmony with Jesus Christ:

1. Walk daily in the Spirit not the flesh - Ga 5:16, "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh."

It's important to acknowledgement His Presence
It's important to understand His Ministry
It's important to depend upon His Leadership

2. Walk daily in "Good Works" not worldliness - Eph 2:10, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

Daily devotions
Personal soul-winning
Faithful church attendance

3. Walk daily in Love not anger - Eph 5:1-2, "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us…"

God's love is sincere (Ro 12:9)
God's love is selfless (Ro 12:10; 1Co 13:5)
God's love is serving (Lu 10:30f)
God's love is sure (1Co 13)

AN OFFERING OF FAITH

2012-01-09T11:53:00.005-05:00

Genesis 4:1-8; Hebrews 11:4

If Stephen is the first martyr of the NT then Abel is the first martyr of the OT. Why? Genesis 4 not only records the first murder but it also records the first "religious war" of faith verses works. Abel's offering represents what Christ accomplished at Calvary and Cain's offering represents what he accomplished. Cain was angry and Cain refused to repent and make it right (Ge 4:7) consequently he killed his brother in rage.

On a practical note and a very sad one at that, Abel's offering of faith cost him his life. We know all too well that righteousness is costly (Mt 5:10; 2Ti 3:12). Right will always pay a price because wrong often refuses to admit it's wrong.

As I remind everyone of the price of faith let’s not fail to mention that there is no greater reward on this planet than to serve the Lord Jesus Christ (Mk 10:28-31).

It is interesting to note that the very first individual in He 11 is a man who is known for presenting an offering that points to the blood sacrifice of Christ at Calvary and his faith in God. God is looking for 21^st century believers who are willing to present themselves as a living sacrifice unto God (Romans 12:1).

Several thoughts about Abel's offering from Hebrews 11:4:

IT WAS AN OFFERING OF FAITH
IT WAS AN OFFERING UNTO GOD
IT WAS AN OFFERING OF EXCELLENCE
IT WAS AN OFFERING OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

Abel earned an honorable testimony..."by which he obtained witness that he was righteous"
Abel earned a perpetual honorable mention..."God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.”
Matthew 26:6-13

Our New Granddaughters #8 & #9

2012-01-06T08:10:00.007-05:00

Our daughter Karyn who lives in TN delivered her twin girls...Audrey at 12:22am and Bailey at 12:24am. Mom and babies are doing great! Laura are I are planning to be spend some time with Karyn and Jason (Jan 23-27) and then drive over to Lattimore, South Carolina to see Tom & April and their children. I will be preaching for my son on January 29 and fly home on Tuesday, January 31.

THE VALUE OF FAITH

2012-01-03T09:42:00.006-05:00

I am extremely excited about the possibilities of FAITH in 2012. As a church we certainly desire to please the Lord with our lives, with our family, and as a church but we all know too well that without FAITH it's impossible to please God. Scripture says that a small measure of FAITH can do great things for the cause of Christ...and we are expecting God to do great things at FBC of Groton in 2012.

TITLE: THE VALUE OF FAITH

HEBREWS 11:1-2

1. IT HAS PURPOSE (NOW FAITH) - 1

A. Substance

B. Evidence

2. IT HAS POTENTIAL (BY FAITH) - 2

A. Good report

B. He 11:32-40

3. IT HAS POWER (THROUGH FAITH) - 3

Through faith or because of faith we understand the power of God's Word:

A. In Creation (He 11:3)

B. In the Christian life (He 4:12)

C. In the Church (Eph 3:20)

D. In the Cross (Ro 1:16)

Be On Guard

2012-01-02T20:43:00.006-05:00

Text: Matthew 6:19-24

In the first 18 verses of Matthew 6 we discover a warning against hypocrisy in our giving, in our fasting, and in our prayers. We must take every precaution not only to guard against hypocrisy in our duties (1-18) but we must guard against worldliness (19-24) in our devotion to Jesus Christ.

Mt 6:19-24 points out 3 vital areas to guard:

Guard your heart (19-21)

The difference between worldliness and godliness is often determined by where you invest your resources. You will either lay-up treasure in heaven or you will lay-up treasure upon the earth. Laying-up treasure in heaven guards against worldliness.

Guard your eyes (22-23)

The eye is the gate or the entrance into your life. The eye is the gate through which sin or righteousness enters. In the text we find two eyes set in contrast, the single eye and the evil eye. The eye represents the mind, the heart, or the seat of your affection. What we allow in through the gate of our heart is what you will eventually become. Keep your eyes on the Lord (Colossians 3:1-2).

Guard your love (24)

In other words protect your relationship with Jesus Christ. Love Him supremely! Love Him exclusively! When a believer loves the world it erodes a meaningful relationship with Christ (1John 2:15-16; James 4:4).

A godly love empowers our service for Christ (Mt 6, 1Co 13).
A godly love ensures obedience to Christ (Jn 14:15).
A godly love establishes proper values in Christ (Mt 22:34-40).

JOIN US...

2011-12-31T12:49:00.002-05:00

Join us for services on New Year's Day! It will begin with Sunday school for all ages at 9:30am followed by a spirit-filled preaching service at 10:45am, and then in the evening service at 6pm I will share our annual theme including some exciting events for the New Year. The evening service will conclude with a Bible message to launch us into 2012! I can't wait for Sunday! I am anticipating a great year at FBC of Groton.

Other January Events:

Monday, January 2 at 6:30pm - Prison Ministry
Saturday, January 14 at 10am - Ladies Breakfast
Sunday, January 22 - Missionary Don Whitecar, Belize
Saturday, January 28 (11-3pm) - Pastors Wives' Day
Sunday, January 29 - Fifth Sunday Service

Greyson's Dedication Service

2011-12-27T10:57:00.012-05:00

December 24, 2011

Text: Luke 2:22-32

Jewish males were circumcised 8 days after they were born after which a Hebrew mother was required to remain at home for about forty days after the birth of a male child and about eighty days for a female, and during that time she was considered impure. Lev 12:3-4 and Luke 2:22 confirms this time as the "days of purification."

When the "days of purification" ended the parents would take the baby to the Temple. The mother would offer a sacrifice for herself. Those who were able on such an occasion were required to offer a lamb for a burnt-offering, and a pigeon or a turtle-dove for a sin-offering. If unable to bring a lamb, then they were permitted to bring two turtle-doves or two young pigeons according to Le 12:6-8.

After the offering the baby was presented to the Lord:

Verse 22 – Presentation

Verse 23 – Dedication (the dedication was based on Ex 13:2, "Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.")

Sanctify means to consecrate or to set apart unto the Lord. The Lord basically said in Ex 13:2 - I want every male…Mary & Joseph came to present the Christ-child to that end…

The public presentation/dedication service demonstrates 2 important thoughts:

It is a demonstration of what parents have already decided to do as a family…it is a demonstration of what’s in the heart…and that is to give their newly born baby back to the Lord (1Samuel 1).
It’s a demonstration of their love for God and for their church. Parents not only need God’s help to bring up children in the Lord…but the public service makes them accountable to the church. In other words they need the love and support of their church family.

The Bible says that Simeon blessed/praised the Lord (28) and then he prayed a prayer of consecration for each of them or he simply asked the Lord to bless them as well (34).

I GET TO GO

2011-12-26T10:47:00.004-05:00

Inspired by a dear friend serving in Ivory Coast, West Africa

I heard a missionary on a Wednesday night

Who spoke with heart and falling tears

"Don't think for a moment that I have to go,

But I get to go just like it appears."

"So don't feel sorry me, my friend

Cause I get to go and represent Him

While most have chosen to the very end

A familiar place much too prim."

Surrender it all and don't look back

A sacred privilege from not to flee

Consider the need and cry aloud

Here am I Lord; send me

"I am now ready to give my life

To a people and place I scarcely know

In spite of my fears, the land, and it's blight

I'm honored and proud that I get to go."

DECEMBER and JANUARY at FBC

2011-12-23T18:58:00.000-05:00

Saturday, December 24 at 6pm - Candlelight Service
Sunday, December 25 at 10:45am - A Christmas Day Service
Sunday, January 1 at 6pm - Vision Night

Groton Rock

2011-12-22T21:54:00.005-05:00

Plymouth , Massachusetts has a rock that marks the spot where the pilgrims landed in 1620. It's called and you guessed it "Plymouth Rock." FBC of Groton now has a rock that marks the location of where our propane tank has landed and yep it's called the "Groton Rock!"

Playing in the Sand

2011-12-20T15:59:00.016-05:00

A 500 gallon propane tank went into the ground the other day to operate heating units in the building. Two (100 gallon each) standing bottles on the other side of building. New company, new look, economical = savings!

I'm thankful for deacon's who support their pastor in projects such as this one and who are willing to do physical work with a servant's heart. Thank you men...I am blessed!

The Comforter Has Come

2011-12-20T08:29:00.026-05:00

John 14:15-27

Thought:
The Spirit that was involved in the Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ and His resurrection dwells in the body of every believer.

Romans 8:11, “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.”

Here’s another thought:
If the Holy Ghost has power to create life in the womb of a virgin (Mt 1:20), raise Christ from the dead (Ro 8:11), quicken a soul dead in trespasses and sin (Eph 2:1), He can certainly empower you and me to live a victorious life for Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 3:20-21, “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”

Introduction:
We find the Lord reassuring the troubled disciples in John 14:1-27. They are troubled over what He had told them in John 13:33-38.

Christ essentially made 3 promises in chapter 14 to comfort His disciples…
• I WILL COME AGAIN (HEAVEN) - 14:3, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
• I WILL NOT LEAVE YOU COMFORTLESS (HOLY SPIRIT) – 14:18, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
• I LEAVE WITH YOU PEACE (HARMONY) – 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

The Comforter is mentioned 4 times in the Gospel of John (14:16; 14:26; 15:26; & 16:7) and once in 1John 2:1. In 1John 2:1 it is translated “advocate.” The word advocate comes from the same Greek word from which Comforter is translated (parakletos par-ak’-lay-tos). It means to summons, to call to one’s side, or one who pleads another’s cause like the counsel for the defense, a legal assistant, an intercessor, or an advocate.

The Comforter is the Holy Spirit and this Title, the Comforter, sheds light on Who he is and What He does for the believer.

OUTLINE:
1. THE COMFORTER ENTERS THE BELIEVER AT SALVATION
The Holy Spirit quickens or regenerates a believing sinner (Titus 3:5-7; Eph 2:1) upon which He takes up residence in our mortal bodies.

Romans 8:9, "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." Other applicable references (1Co 3:16; 1Co 6:19-20; Jn 14:17).

Four Important Ministries of the Comforter:

A. ASSURANCE (Ro 8:10-16; 1Jn 5:9-10; 1Jn 3:20-22)
B. COMFORT - in other words He is at your side when you are in:
trouble (Jn 14:1-27)
trial (2Co 1:3-6)
transgression (1Jn 2:1-2)
C. TEACH
the Scriptures (1Co 2:9-16)
the will of the Lord (Eph 5:1-20)
D. GUIDE
towards truth (Jn 16:13)
towards Christ-likeness (Ga 5:16f)
towards sinners (Acts 8:26f; Lu 19:1-10).

2. THE COMFORTER EMPOWERS THE BELIEVER FOR CHRISTIAN SERVICE
Boldness (Acts 4:23f) and spiritual power (Acts 1:8) is for service & soul-winning.
Eph 5:18 is a contrast between the influence of alcohol and the influence of the Holy Spirit. In other words the influence of alcohol leads to riotousness (wherein is excess) but the influence of the Holy spirit leads to righteousness. Christian work requires the filling of the Spirit not the filling of self, sin, or intoxicating substance.

What encourages Spirit fulness?

A. Be separated (from sin & worldliness)
B. Be sincere (in prayer/fasting to God)
C. Be submissive (obey the the Lord)

The Wise Men from the East

2011-12-18T07:55:00.009-05:00

Matthew 2:1-12

The "wise men" were learned men of the eastern nations. They were devoted teachers and students of the Scriptures, science, philosophy, medicine, and astronomy. Perhaps they were descendants of the "wise men" of Daniel's day (Da 2:12). When they saw "His star" in the east it confirmed their understanding of Daniel's prophetic timeline. Perhaps His "star" points to Numbers 24:17, "I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth." Daniel's vision of Seventy Weeks in chapter 9:24-27 made it quite possible to know the approximate time of Christ's death. Consequently the "wise men' knew the stars and they knew the Scriptures and so they prepared for an arduous journey toward Jerusalem.
I looked on a map for an overview of their journey. If they came from the east of which they did, perhaps ancient Babylon, they undoubtedly traveled across hundreds of miles of Arabian desert and they also traveled in a large caravan for safety. Below is an outline that defines a few details about the wise men and their journey.

1. They were fearless in their Journey
2. They were familiar with Daniel’s Prophecy
3. They focused on the His Star in the East
4. They fell down to worship their King
5. They furnished their King with Gifts
6. They fled being warned of God

My faith and commitment is always challenged by the testimony of the MAGI…as it should. They journeyed well over 500 miles to worship Him whom they believed was their expected Messiah. Their faith was expressed in their travels and in their treasures.

May the Lord help each of us to express our faith at a whole new level in 2012.

The Effort of Soul-Winning

2011-12-09T17:16:00.020-05:00

1 Co 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”

Verse 58 concludes the discussion on the glorious change that takes place when Christ returns. He is coming for His own and when He does…He “shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body…” (Phil 3:21).

In the light of His imminent return Paul wrote to Corinth and said, “be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…”

The “work of the Lord” is ministry!

“…forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” Labour is what the “work of the ministry” requires.

Read somewhere, “Work hard to get good; then work hard to get better.”

Dr Hyles has said, “The difference between success and failure is work.

The outline is 3 types of effort to help you and me stay after sinners!

A CONSCIOUS EFFORT (ENGAGING THE MIND)

John 4:35, “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”

To be conscious simply means “to be aware.” I must make myself aware of the fields that are white already to harvest. I must make myself aware of the fact that there are lost people in my town, your town, and around the world. I must make an effort to look on the fields.

Awareness (Engaging the Mind)…Make yourself aware of a few facts everyday!

Realize that the need is great and in comparison very little effort is being done to reach the people in your town.
Realize that now is time…Jn 9:4, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”
Look for opportunities to witness everyday (Col 4:5-6).
Be prepared to witness everyday (Carry tracts, a New Testament, and promotional literature).

If you will make it a point to be consciously aware of the need in your area…you might carry tracts. Our problem is we’re not thinking about it…and if you’re not thinking about it you probably won’t pass out a tract…

Marketing strategies can be an effective tool but marketing is not evangelism. Secondly marketing strategies or social networking should never replace evangelism but unfortunately it's happening.

Marketing is letting others know you exist (website, blogs, twitter, facebook, mailers, etc) soul winning is letting others know that Jesus exists. Let’s market the Gospel from house to house!

I’m not against marketing and social networking. Social networking sites may be a helpful extension but it’s not evangelism.

If we are not careful we will find a reason not to evangelize our community with the Gospel…

A CONCERNED EFFORT (ENGAGING THE HEART)

Jn 4:4, “And he must needs go through Samaria.”

Christ was certainly aware of the need in Samaria, also, He was more concerned about the woman’s soul than the apparent issue between Jews and Samaritans (Jn 4:9). He was more concerned about doing God’s will in Samaria than what had preoccupied His disciples (Jn 4:31-34).

Interestingly enough His time with her at the well in spite of what others may have been whispering was uninterrupted (Jn 4:27).

Concerned people will not be hindered by obstacles (bigotry, hatred, social/cultural differences, distance…)
Concerned people are dead people (Ro 9:1-3)
Concerned people pray
Concerned people make time for soul winning
Concerned people are sustained by doing God’s will (My meat…Jn 4:34)

The difference maker for most of us is that awareness will affect the heart!

Why Go? My decision to go is never based on a return. That’s why some don’t go soul winning anymore! Little or no return, people are not responding to the Gospel...Conclusion...it doesn’t work anymore. Don't get me wrong I go expecting results but my obedience is not based upon whether or not they are met. The basis for going is never the satisfaction of my expectations…the basis for going is OBEDIENCE!

A CONCERTED EFFORT (ENGAGING THE WILL)

Mt 14:14, “And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude (engaging the mind), and was moved with compassion toward them (engaging the heart), and he healed their sick (engaging the will).”

A lady once asked John Wesley if he knew that he would die at midnight the next day, how would he spend the intervening time. He replied, "Why, madam, just as I intend to spend it now. I would preach this evening at Gloucester, and again at five tomorrow morning; after that I would ride to Tewkesbury, preach in the afternoon, and meet the societies in the evening. I would then go to Martin's house...talk and pray with the family as usual, retire myself to my room at 10 o'clock, commend myself to my Heavenly Father, lie down to rest, and wake up in glory!"

From Inside the Steeple

2011-12-03T19:32:00.003-05:00

I'm inside the Steeple looking down at my house. I know don't say it...at least I was out of the wind!

Steeple Work

2011-12-01T23:18:00.011-05:00

Bro McCarthy, our Youth Pastor is on the church roof working on the steeple. Each panel was removed to seal with waterproof caulk.

DO YOU CARRY A BURDEN?

2011-11-29T08:37:00.008-05:00

A burden is "that which is borne or carried; a load" according to Daniel Webster's 1828 edition. When I consider the word in this context Numbers 11:11, Matthew 11:28, Luke 10:40, and Matthew 26:37 come to mind. In Galatians 6 a burden refers to a heavy load as well.

As believer's a burden for lost souls for example involves a heavy heart. Romans 9:1-2, "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart." Heaviness in this text is a sorrow, a grief, or a pain we feel in our hearts.

Thoughts:

A BURDEN IS NORMALLY A RESULT OF WHAT WE HAVE SEEN OR HEARD

Nehemiah heard...Neh 1:4, "And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven..."

Christ saw...Mt 14:14, "And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick."

Obedience is challenged, hearts are stirred, and burdens are born out of a preaching service, or from reading the Bible, a Missions Conference, prayer, and so on.

A BURDEN WILL OFTEN MOVE YOU TO ACTION

Notice what Paul's burden led him to say in Romans 9:3, "For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh..."

Paul understood the plight of the Jews and he identified with their need for the Gospel. Paul was passionate about reaching Jews with the Gospel and he was willing to make great sacrifices to get it done.

A BURDEN SHOULD BE SUSTAINED

In other words never loose heart for church, for God's Word, or for lost souls. Sustain your burden for God's will by staying in church, by staying on your knees, by staying in the Book, and staying after lost souls.

A Thanksgiving Service

2011-11-25T14:50:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Sunday was scheduled for November 20 on our Website but we had to move it to Sunday, November 27. Lunch will be served in our Fellowship Hall after the Morning Service followed by an Afternoon Service. Our speaker at 2pm is Missionary Dave McKee. Looking forward to hearing from the McKee's.

Karyn's Baby Shower Surprise!

2011-11-24T17:48:00.004-05:00

My wife Laura and my daughter Shannon flew out of Boston to TN to surprise Karyn at her baby shower. Karyn is our 3rd child and lives in Merrillville, TN with her husband, Jason and their son Isaiah. Karyn is due to deliver twin girls in February.

http://youtu.be/ybgCIkC8mP0

Thanks be unto God

2011-11-24T08:48:00.003-05:00

2 Corinthians 9:15, "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."

I am thankful to God to be saved (2Co 9:15).
I am thankful to God for my godly wife of 37 years (Pr 31:10).
I am thankful to God for my children & their families (3John 4).
I am thankful to God for His precious Word.
I am thankful to God for the First Baptist Church of Groton.
I am thankful to God for His supply (Phil 4:19).
I am thankful to God for His grace (2Co 12:9)
I am thankful to God for friends (Pr 18:24)
I am thankful to God for America.
I am thankful to God "who daily loadeth us with benefits" (Ps 68:19).

A FAMILY THANKSGIVING TRADITION

2011-11-22T10:54:00.006-05:00

We have a very warm and memorable family tradition in our home on Thanksgiving Day. Normally my wife and I will host the thanksgiving meal. After the table is set and before we dig in we will take our places around the table and share with each other that for which we are most thankful. I will begin by reading an appropriate verse of Scripture and then share my heart with my family after which it will continue around the table with each family member and invited guest. One at a time we share, we cry, we give God thanks, and when everyone has concluded we will join hands and I will pray giving thanks to our Great God. You can place a bowl of candy corn or other candies or small gifts in the center of the table enough for each person present to take one when it’s their turn to share. This has proven to be a precious time for our family on Thanksgiving Day!

There Shall Be Shingles of Blessing

2011-11-22T08:32:00.007-05:00

The top pic was taken today at 2pm...completely done! The bottom pic was taken yesterday at 5pm. The roofers returned this morning to cap the ridge and flash the steeple. Thank God for these guys whom the Lord put in my path a few weeks ago and thank God for a handful of church folks who love the Lord and care about the testimony of their church. The other side as many know was shingled last year and we feel mighty good knowing it's now done.

Home Stretch

2011-11-19T14:34:00.002-05:00

It may not look like it in this photo but there is about 2 days of work left. Hoping to finish by Tuesday...encouraged!

Our Response Time

2011-11-15T17:15:00.011-05:00

I am somewhat disturbed over the criteria by which some people make decisions. Often the basis of decision making is selfish and illogical. Poor decisions have consequences. When Rehoboam rejected the counsel of “old men,” his father’s generation, and embraced the ignorant and illogical advice of his peers he divided the nation of which eventually led to idolatry (1Kings 12). To make matters worse, Rehoboam, was warned about the pending disaster and division by the older and wiser generation of people.

Recently I read an article in a local paper about the construction of a new fire station. It appears that town officials are experiencing opposition from the town’s people concerning its location. The basis of opposition is that the 21^st century fire station will not merge into the scenery of the quaint New England town. The argument is that a new fire station will not be esthetically pleasing on Main Street where it will be quite visible.

I am not arguing the point only the basis of their logic. I do not have a critical spirit or an agenda except to say that there is a need for a fire station in every town and the decision of its location should be on the basis of saving lives. The most important issue is response time, serving the community, and saving lives.

I am a pastor of an independent Baptist Church. I make myself aware of my primary duty every week of which is the very purpose of the church – saving lives from a literal Hell. In other words the urgent responsibility of the church is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Mark 16:15 authoritatively declares our primary duty, “…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Every decision I make as a pastor is bathed in prayer and centered on one single most important truth – saving lives with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am very concerned about esthetics, cleanliness, and an appearance that is appropriately associated with what we are and where we stand on Biblical issues but these things should never interfere with our response time to the Gospel. While some are deliberating over budgets, social events, and new carpet people are dying every moment without ever hearing a clear presentation of the Gospel.

I used Google and typed in “Response Time” and found this article in the Boston Globe written January 30, 2005 entitled “Slower Arrival at Fires in US is Costing Lives.” This is an excerpt from the article: “Once a day on average in this country, someone dies when firefighters arrive too late, an investigation of fire response times by the Globe has found. America's fire departments are giving fires a longer headstart, arriving later each year, especially in the suburbs around Boston, Atlanta and other cities, where growth is brisk but fire staffing has been cut. In Massachusetts, people waited 10 minutes or more for firefighters to arrive at 214 building fires in 2002, the last year for which data is available. Since 1990, there have been 2,786 such fires, including blazes at jails, mental hospitals, apartment buildings, shopping malls and private homes. Indeed, in 2002, only about half of the local fire departments in the state -- 54 percent -- met the fire industry goal of arriving within 6 minutes of the first alarm at 90 percent of building fires. Across the nation, the showing was even worse, with only 35 percent of departments meeting the response time goal.”

My point is that response/arrival time must take precedence when considering saving lives, and so it is in Christian work. What can we do as a church to rescue people from the flames of Hell before it’s eternally too late? Let’s start with evaluating our response time!

Roofing in November

2011-11-15T15:10:00.004-05:00

Very little progress to report since last week Wednesday. The threat of rain and some wind has been somewhat of a hindrance. Pray with me about the completion of this project before hard winter weather comes to New England. This week Lord willing when they shingle under what is now tarpped they will be a little more than halfway.

DAY THREE

2011-11-09T16:27:00.002-05:00

DAY TWO

2011-11-08T16:50:00.004-05:00

Roofing the Other Side

2011-11-08T11:19:00.002-05:00

The roofing project began yesterday. November seems a bit risky to begin a project this size but mild temps are expected long enough to finish the job. The east-side of the building was done last July. We are excited about covering the church with a 30 year architectural shingle. The steeple will also be flashed and sealed properly.

FRIEND DAY - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6

2011-11-06T09:52:00.000-05:00

We got hammered with snow last Saturday night through Sunday morning. Trees and power lines were down and most of us were without power for a few days. FRIEND DAY has been rescheduled for SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 at 10:45am. Lunch will be served at 12:30pm with an afternoon service to follow at 2pm.

Daylight Savings Time Ends

2011-11-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

FALL BACK one hour before you go to bed tonight.

Greyson

2011-11-04T16:25:00.000-04:00

Greyson sporting his new football outfit and sneakers.

Hanging Out in Groton

2011-11-04T16:07:00.003-04:00

On my way to the Post Office and saw this hawk casually hanging out on a rock wall in Groton.

The Grill Winner

2011-10-29T16:47:00.007-04:00

We had a drawing for a gas grill at Grotonfest and we delivered it to the winner this afternoon in Dunstable, MA. We gave this fine gentleman not only the grill but church literature and a Gospel witness.

The Providence of God

2011-10-26T10:20:00.007-04:00

There has been snow on occasion in October. www.noaa.gov (an excellent weather site) is predicting snow showers for Thursday night and a slight chance on Saturday. The church has purchased a newer used plow truck. It was purchased from a Christian man who kept it in excellent mechanical condition. Transmission, transfer case, brake lines, complete exhaust, gas tank, several engine parts, radiator, and more were rebuilt or replaced. We are very excited about this find.

On another note as you know we replaced the shingles on one side of the church roof last year in July. Our friends were expected to return this September to finish the job however they could not come due to their busy schedule.

The Christian fella we bought the plow truck from is a roofer by trade and so I called and asked him to take a look at the church. Long story short we have hired him and his crew to finish shingling the church roof. The church Roof Fund will cover the expenses. It's late in the year but we will move forward before serious cold and snow arrives in New England.

Unlike the Rest

2011-10-22T15:15:00.005-04:00

Lift me, Lord, to a higher crest

That I may live unlike the rest

Take me up the mount with Thee

Thy splendid glory I must see

Open my eyes and give to me

From thy Word what I should be

For this I long, a holy peek

And face to face I often seek

This one life Thy pow’r to know

To give to Thee my all below

Lift me, Lord, to a higher crest

That I may live unlike the rest

Matthew 17:1-2; 2 Peter 1:16-18

OCTOBER HARVEST

2011-10-16T13:16:00.000-04:00

OCTOBER HARVEST - Canvassing our Community with the Gospel each Saturday in October (Begins at 10 am)
GROTONFEST - Re-Scheduled for October 9 due to rain (10-5 pm). 5,000 new tracts, hundreds of John & Romans, gifts, slide presentation of our ministries, and more.
FALL FEST - Church Family Fun & Fellowship (Friday, October 21 at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall)
FRIEND DAY (Sunday, October 30. Sunday school at 9:30 am. Morning service at 10:45 am. Lunch in the Fellowship Hall at 12:30 pm. Afternoon preaching service at 2 pm)

R.A. Torrey on Prayer

2011-10-11T21:03:00.001-04:00

“Up in a little town in Maine,things were pretty dead some years ago. The churches were not accomplishing anything. There were a few Godly men in the churches, and they said: 'Here we are, only uneducated laymen; but something must be done in this town. Let us form a praying band. We will all center our prayers on one man. Who shall it be?' They picked out one of the hardest men in town, a hopeless drunkard, and centered all their prayers upon him. In a week, he was converted. They centered their prayers upon the next hardest man in town, and soon he was converted. Then they took up another and another, until within a year, two or three hundred were brought to God, and the fire spread out into all the surrounding country. Definite prayer for those in the prison house of sin is the need of the hour.”

-Dr. R.A. Torrey

Grotonfest 2011

2011-10-10T12:10:00.004-04:00

Grotonfest was exciting and very beneficial...we talked to dozens of people about our church, handed our Gospel literature, and invited lots of people to Friend Day on Sunday, October 30.

Canvassing Groton with the Gospel

2011-10-09T20:30:00.006-04:00

The Duty of Every Christian Father

2011-10-05T08:26:00.009-04:00

God made man in His own image (Ge 1:27). Ge 2:7, "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." God made man in His own image, gave him life, and gave him responsibility and purpose as well. The garden, the animals, and God's law was assigned to Adam after which the Bible says in Ge 2:20, "...but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him." But God in His mercy made from Adam the woman (Ge 2:21-22).

God made woman from man (Ge 2:21-22), God made woman for the man (Ge 2:18), and God brought the woman to the man (Ge 2:22). Why?

For Companionship
To Complete him
To Compliment him
To Contribute

A woman's contribution is not only children (Ge 1:28; 9:1) but she was made from, and for, and brought to the man to help him accomplish God given responsibilities for the home. In matrimony or as "one flesh" her duty was to help Adam fulfill what he understood to be God's will for the home.

The fall of man in Genesis 3 occurred because of disobedience to a command found Ge 2:16, "And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat..." Notice the command was given to the man but the serpent beguiled the woman (2Co 11:3). She took the fruit and then gave it to Adam and he did eat (Ge 3:6). Consequently he obeyed the woman. In verse 17 it says that Adam hearkened unto the voice of his wife.

Deut 6:4-6, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart..."

The word "hearken in Ge 3 is the same word "hear" in Deut 6. It means, "listen to obey." Eve obeyed the serpent and Adam soon obeyed the voice of his wife.

God gave the command to man and I believe Eve was made to help, support, and encourage Adam as head of household but the serpent drove a wedge through the authority structure and dismantled it (1Co 11:3; Eph 5). A dismantling of the authority structure led to disaster.

Strong families make for a strong church and strong churches strengthen society. The head of household must walk with God and the woman must walk beside him to help not hinder; to contribute not condemn; to submit to voice of her husband and not succumb to the subtlety of the serpent.

Notice 3 important duties for which the head of household is ultimately responsible that demands the help and support of a good wife.

LEAD YOUR FAMILY LIKE CHRIST

Lead lovingly, selflessly, and sacrificially (Eph 5:21-33). When a home models the relationship between Christ and the church that home will be a "glorious" presentation as well (Eph 5:27).

TEACH YOUR FAMILY ABOUT CHRIST

Teach your family the Bible (Eph 6:1-4; Deut 6:5-7).

As you you do:

Teach them to Support the Family
Teach them to Serve Christ
Teach them to Submit to Authority
Teach them to Stay in Church
Teach them to Soul Win

BRING YOUR FAMILY TO CHRIST

Not long ago I read Mt 9:18-19, 23-26 and was touched by the effort of the father. His twelve year old daughter had died and so he sought the Lord to bring her back to life. I felt his pain, his urgency, and his sorrow as I naturally thought of my own precious children. The need of my children only demands that I introduce Him to my family as the "Great Physician" the "Good Shepherd" and the "Saviour of the World."

Zacchaeus brought Christ to his home and introduced Him to his family. My first duty upon trusting Christ is to tell my wife and children about Jesus Christ. Bring Him home and Crown Him Lord of All.

I'VE SET THE SAIL

2011-10-03T09:25:00.000-04:00

On the sea,
In the dark of night
I’ve set the sail
Till morn’n light

In waters deep
And spaced from port
All my fears
Will dare to court

The sea will rage
And storms will come
A battered ship
With damage some

But on the sea
By faith alone
I’ve set the sail
Till I am home

The Duty of a Pastor

2011-09-30T08:11:00.007-04:00

"This charge I commit unto thee..." 1Timothy 1:18

First and Second Timothy including the Book of Titus is commonly referred to as the Pastoral Epistles. In these three New Testament Books the Apostle Paul primarily counsels young Timothy, his son in the faith. The aged man of God warns, exhorts, and delivers a charge to young Timothy on a wide-range of subject matter regarding the pastoral ministry. This is not a comprehensive study on every charge addressed to Timothy. I attempted to select one outstanding charge/exhortation from each chapter in First and Second Timothy.

WAR A GOOD WARFARE (1TIMOTHY 1:18-20)

In 1Timothy 1:18 the phrase "war a good warfare" is a military command of which is not uncharacteristic of Paul (2Timothy 2:3-4). The military charge refers directly to 1Timothy 1:3-4 which states emphatically "teach no other doctrine." In the Pastoral Epistles the phrase "sound doctrine" is mentioned four times. The warfare in the first chapter refers to the responsibility of preaching and teaching sound doctrine. Verse 19 says "holding faith" as opposed to "having put away." Our greatest defense against heresy is to faithfully preach the Word of God (1Timothy 4:13; 2Timothy 4:2).

PRAY EVERY DAY (1TIMOTHY 2:1-8)

Paul exhorts Timothy to pray. You can no more drive a car without fuel than a lead a church without prayer. Acts 6:4, "But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word." Prayer precedes preaching. In other words if you want results in your ministry bathe it in prayer. A prayer-less pastor is a powerless pastor. Spend the morning hours in your study. Pray, study the Bible, and prepare your sermons.

BE A GOOD PASTOR (1TIMOTHY 3:14-15)

1Timothy 3 provides a list of pastoral qualifications. The emphasis is not on what you have or what you know necessarily but rather what you are. First mention, he “must be blameless” in his character. In other words a pastor must exemplify true biblical Christianity in his private and public life and in the pulpit as well. Notice “good behavior” in verse 2 and the chapter summary in verses 14-15 particularly the phrase “behave thyself.” Someone well said, “Be more concerned about being a good pastor than preaching a good sermon.”

CARE FOR YOUR PEOPLE WITHOUT PARTIALITY (1TIMOTHY 5:21)

Paul instructs Timothy on how to treat or how to care for the different people in your ministry. Notice from verses 1-2, “as a father, as brethren, as mothers, and “as sisters.” When admonishing, administrating, or ministering for example treat them alike or as “family” with love and respect. The key verse that presents the charge is verse 21, “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.”

LEARN TO BE CONTENT (1TIMOTHY 6:17)

Contentment is emphasized in verses 6-8. Paul learned how to be content on both sides of the spectrum as it were (Phil 4:12). The danger is not wealth but what wealth can potentially produce (9-10, 17). Never make money an issue make ministry an issue (11-12).

HOLD FAST (2TIMOTHY 1:13-14)

The word “committed” in 1Timothy 6:20 refers to an investment consigned to one’s faithful keeping. The Apostle Paul including Eunice and Lois had made spiritual investments in Timothy’s life. In other words they mentored young Timothy. The phrase “hold fast” in 2Timothy 1:13 is similar in meaning. Again in 2Timothy 3:14-17 we find again similar teaching. Timothy was instructed to “hold fast” or to keep a firm grip on the sound words that he had received from those that loved him.

BE STRONG (2TIMOTHY 2:1-3)

2Timothy 2 is a reminder of the hardness of the ministry. 2Timothy 3 is a reminder of the last days, perilous times, and persecution. Paul exhorts Timothy under the circumstances to endure, to continue, and to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. We can retreat to the counsel of our mentors (3:14), we can rely on the inspiration of Scriptures (3:15-16), and we can rest in the enabling grace of God (2:1).

PREACH THE WORD (2TIMOTHY 4:1-5)

Be faithful in preaching the Word and evangelizing the lost allowing the Lord to produce through you the evidence of what the ministry is designed to accomplish. 1Corinthians 1:21, “…it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.”

FINISH WHAT YOU START (2TIMOTHY 4:6-8)

Never use a ministry as a stepping stone! Neither give place to the devil (Ephesians 4:27). Discouragement, obstacles, affliction, finances, loneliness, mistakes, battles, and problem people are some of the tools of devil to run you off. Never look for an excuse to leave. Finish strong (Acts 20:24)!

Great Day at Cedar Ridge in TN

2011-09-25T20:59:00.008-04:00

Sunday, September 25 was Tom and April's last Sunday Service at Cedar Ridge. Tonight after the evening service the church will meet in the fellowship hall to say good-bye. Tom and some of the church men will pack a moving truck on Monday and pull out Tuesday morning for Lattimore, NC.

Tom's Ordination Service

2011-09-24T20:54:00.007-04:00

Pastor Larry Brannon and Cedar Ridge Baptist Church did an excellent with the Ordination Service on Saturday. My son Tom is giving his testimony of salvation and the call to the ministry!

2011-09-22T21:58:00.002-04:00

Some of the family met at Macaroni Grill in Knoxville Thursday night. My mother and sister-in-law Vicki flew in from Cleveland for Tom's ordination as well and are seated on my right and my left.

MOVE ON

2011-09-20T14:14:00.012-04:00

Philippians 3:14-15 says, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Awesome Bible verses that remind us to forget the past and by God's grace move on with our lives. The Apostle Paul as we all know was saved on the Damascus Road in Acts 9. He is sharing his personal testimony in Philippians 3. He let go of his awful past, his former employment, religion, and anything associated with it. He is now a saved man and God has called him into full-time ministry.

Long story short there are scores of people who have been hurt by someone, disappointed by false religion, traveled down the wrong road, abused in some way, and on and on. By the way so have I if it's any consolation. But the truth is we must learn by God's grace to forgive, forget, let go, or bury the hatchet as it were. I know it's difficult but it will do no good to harbor resentment, bitterness, anger, or a retaliatory attitude. If someone has wronged you and they have not apologized that never justifies a vindictive spirit. God's people like the Apostle Paul must forget the past through forgiveness and with God's help move on with your life!

You may have left a bad marriage, you may have had to leave a church, say good-bye to a friend, or perhaps something worse but it does not help the cause of Christ to be malicious. Leave that person or that church alone and move on with your life.

Jesus Christ was unjustly crucified between two thieves. I believe you know what the Roman soldiers did to your Saviour! Yet He never spoke a cruel word. He was abused, they spat in His face, they mocked Him, they called Him names, and they rejected Him yet Scripture says in 1 Peter 2:23, "Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously..." He did not fight He forgave! Lu 23:34, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."

We are never to overcome evil with evil but Romans 12 suggests to overcome evil with GOOD. Read Romans 12:17-21 on how to treat your enemies. Far too often we take matters in our hands simply because we are hurt but the Bible says, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." Retaliation is the devil's work.

It's time to forgive and move on! It's time to stop encouraging people to come over on your side. God is not pleased with such behavior. Surrender your enemies, your troubles, your offenses, and your hurt over to God and MOVE ON.

Grotonfest 2011

2011-09-19T13:47:00.000-04:00

First Baptist Church will be represented at the annual Grotonfest in town, Saturday, September 24, 2011. We will set up a display table under a 11' x 11' canopy that will include a new church banner, a slide presentation of various activities, new literature, John & Romans, and more. We are excited about the possibilities as we pray expecting God to use the testimony of our ministry to reach lost souls for Jesus Christ.

Lunch on the Run

2011-09-17T19:35:00.009-04:00

Dropped in on Pearl today and found her in the dining hall having lunch. Stu and I were invited to join Pearl for lunch. What were we to do? We ordered a pastrami on rye. While we were there I was able to witness to two people, our waiter and the gracious director of Nashoba Park. It's a joy to serve!

Remembering...Ten Years Later

2011-09-11T18:15:00.000-04:00

All Smiles

2011-09-10T00:33:00.004-04:00

Pastor and Laura had a delightful time visiting Pearl today. We sat outdoors together in the warm sun talking and catching up on church activity. Pearl took us back inside the building to see her lovely apartment after which we accompanied her to an activity of special music...had a great time!

Pray for FBC of Groton

2011-09-06T13:44:00.003-04:00

Ancient Landmarks

2011-09-01T17:20:00.030-04:00

Proverbs 22:28, "Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set."

Today nearly everything and everybody claims to be a fundamental Christian. I'm not so sure everyone understands its meaning. Fundamental refers to the basics or to the essentials. When I was a new convert Fundamentalism was commonly associated with Independent Baptist churches that stood unapologetic for the essentials of the faith. For example; revival, soul winning, personal holiness, ecclesiastical separation, the King James Bible, the pre-tribulational rapture of the believer, and a literal Hell to name a few. Fundamentalism is also widely known for what it opposes as well.

It is necessary today more than ever to contend for the biblical and for the historical fundamentals of our faith (Jude 3). I was ordained by Dr Roy Thompson and the Cleveland Baptist Church. After the question and answer time on the fundamentals of the faith he said to me, "Tom, the day you deny the truths of this Book will be the day you send your ordination papers back to the Cleveland Baptist Church." Not only did I determine to keep the faith (2 Tim 4:7) but I also determined to honor the fundamental landmarks established by my forefathers who in fact had a great influence on my life (2 Tim 1:13-14; 2 Tim 3:10-17).

Without question some have given fundamentalism a bad name but that does not speak for every fundamental Baptist church. There is nothing wrong with aggressive soul winning, an uncompromising stand for the King James Bible, or even modest apparel. By the way you do not have to be a fundamental Baptist to take a stand on these truths.

I called my pastor, Roy Thompson, during my first pastorate and shared with him a problem I thought that I was having at the time. I told him my plan to curb the situation of which he did not oppose. He simply said to me, "Whatever you do; do it in love." You can't remove from my heart what I believe about the Bible nor can you expect me to dishonor those who have invested in my life. Paul said in 1 Co 15:10, "But by the grace of God I am what I am..." I am what I am by the grace of God and my convictions are deeply rooted. However as a pastor I must lead firmly but lovingly (Jn 10:1-15) and by example (1 Pe 5;1-4). In other words declare your stand either for or against but declare your position "in love." Ephesians 4:15, "But speaking the truth in love..."

Well meaning leaders at times react to problems and problem people like the scribes and Pharisees did in John 8 and consequently make matters worse. The Pharisees had absolutely no regard for the adulteress woman. They abducted her and brought her to Christ and made a public spectacle of her only to boast about their so-called knowledge of the Law and to force Christ into a trap. They were evil. God save us from brutish leadership in fundamentalism.

When I became a candidate for the senior pastor position at FBC of Groton in 2009 I was completely honest and open with the people. I am what I am by the grace of God. I am a KJV preacher, I believe in the pre-tribulational rapture of the believer, I believe that evangelism is the heart beat of the church, and so on. I can be a fundamentalist and yet be gracious and gentle spirited (1 Thess 2:5; Luke 4:22). Common courtesy is not compromise.

Fundamentalism is adrift, the IFB church is under attack by those who have been wounded referring to it as a cult, and people are rapidly embracing contemporary services and other movements. However in spite of the criticism, compromise, cruelity, and change in fundamentalism I will declare with the Psalmist in 16:8, "I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved." I will heed the admonition in 1 Co 16:13, "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."

The ancient landmarks which were established with great sacrifice by those who came before us must never be removed.

Why?

First of all a landmark is territorial - it establishes your position (Like God's Word)
Second, a landmark is navigational - it gives direction (Like a Lighthouse, etc)
Third, a landmark is historical - it honors our heritage (Like the 12 stones in Joshua 4:21-24, like NE rock walls) The Geology of Colonial New England Rock Walls: Link: http://bit.ly/oIb5Hv The author does not endorse all the facts in this link.
Fourth, a landmark is pictorial - it represents or illustrates my conviction (Like the cross which illustrates God's love)
Fifth, a landmark is biblical - it must be anchored...never removed, replaced, relocated, or reinvented. The culture, current events, or the crowd should never dictate direction or doctrine...the Word of God must determine where the landmarks are placed!

My New Toy

2011-09-01T17:12:00.005-04:00

Took my new toy out for a spin...

NEXT EVENT

2011-08-30T16:20:00.004-04:00

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 AT 8:00 AM

Our Quarterly Men's Fellowship Breakfast is a great opportunity for the men of the church to fellowship with one another. It also gives me an opportunity to encourage unity, service, and soul winning. I particularly enjoy sharing my burden and goals for the ministry. We may only spend a couple of hours together but our time together is invaluable. Join us for breakfast, a devotion, and prayer this Saturday at 8 am.

A Soul Winners Plea

2011-08-28T14:06:00.010-04:00

Live each day for Jesus sake

To rescue souls from the fiery lake

Hopeless sinners must be reached

By God's Word with boldness preached

Draw the Sword from its own sheath

Wield its power midst unbelief

The Word of God a two-edged Sword

Promising life through Christ our Lord

The battle flag it must be waved

And I must go 'cause I am saved

By God's grace a world to tell

To rescue souls from death and Hell

Personal Soul Winning and Discipleship

2011-08-27T17:16:00.000-04:00

A Sunday night sermon series on personal soul winning and discipleship during the month of August and September. Join us each Sunday night at 6 pm.

NT Reasons to Fast

2011-08-23T10:56:00.004-04:00

IN THE NT FASTING REPRESENTS AN EXPRESSION OF SORROW

Mt 9:14-15, "Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast."

The Pharisees fasted often, in fact twice a week, besides the great national days of fasting. Concerning John the Baptist he is undoubtedly at this point in prison and the grief of his disciples is naturally accompanied with a fast. Perhaps this is why they are inquiring. In other words it is appropriate for John’s disciples to fast but Jesus makes it clear that He is not yet taken from His disciples therefore for them it is not a time of lamenting but a time of rejoicing.

The truth is the church-age is an appropriate time to fast because there is a measure of sorrow over sin and its consequences (John 16:16-22; Ro 8:22-23) as we await His promised return.

Nehemiah was driven to prayer and fasting out of a broken heart while pleading with God for a return and a revival in Jerusalem. Nehemiah 1:4, "And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven..."

The absence of John encouraged a fast among his disciples. Today there is an absence of revival, soul winning, the presence & power of God, and a surrender to do God's will. And yes there is a sorrow in my heart while I lovingly await Christ's return to make things right. The sad state of affairs must move us to prayer and fasting.

IN THE NT FASTING REPRESENTS AN EARNEST PLEA FOR THE POWER OF GOD

Matthew 17 records the Transfiguration of Christ. When Christ and the inner circle came down from the mountain and were come to the multitude a man came to Christ pleading for mercy for his son. He is described as a "lunatick" in Mt 17:15. He was sore vexed, he suffered greatly, he was in fact possessed by a demon (verse 18). The Bible says that while Jesus was away on the mountain the father brought his lunatick son to the other disciples and they could not cure him (verse 16).

The phrase in verse 16 "they could not" is a sad commentary on these men. Before Christ rebuked the demon He rebuked His disciples (verse 17). The disciples asked, "Why could not we cast him out?" The Bible gives two specific reasons. 1. A failure to believe (20). 2. And a failure to pray and fast (21).

This fast represents a plea for the supernatural, for divine help, or for a divine miracle. Matthew 19:26 says, "With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."
Perhaps your sermon delivery is powerless and your life yields no fruit. My friend, to restore the power of God in your walk, in your witness, and in your pulpit may require the sacrifice of prayer and fasting...I'm talking about an earnest plea for a "foretaste of glory divine."

"They could not" the Bible says because they were powerless against the problem. The cure today is the Gospel of Jesus Christ but it must wielded with the help of God Almighty! Zechariah 4:6, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts." "This kind" of Christianity demands the high cost of prayer and fasting!

A Taste of Hawaii

2011-08-19T21:44:00.001-04:00

A Luau (an Hawaiian feast) will be prepared and served by my dear friend Hank Okuma and his wife Norma. Invite a friend for an evening of fun and good food. Pastor Chris DiGiacomo from Lifeline Baptist Church in Haverhill, MA will share from his heart a message from God's Word.

MISSIONS SUNDAY at FBC

2011-08-04T11:03:00.002-04:00

Missions Sunday is one of the most important events on the annual calendar at First Baptist. I have scheduled my friend and church planter Cal Fuller back this year as the key note speaker. He will emphasize the need for World Evangelism and Faith Promise Giving. Bob and Becky Mach and their four children will be with us as well. Brother Mach has been sent by the Cleveland Baptist Church in Brooklyn, Ohio and serves in Ivory Coast, W. Africa.

Missions Banquet is Saturday, August 6 at 5 pm (Speaker: Bob Mach)
Missions Sunday is Sunday, August 7 (Speakers: New England Church Planter, Cal Fuller and Bob Mach)

Meet Our 7th Grandchild

2011-08-03T14:43:00.005-04:00

My daughter Shannon delivered today, (Wednesday, August 3) at 11:45 am. His name is Greyson Micaiah McCarthy and weighs 7 lbs 3 oz. Mom and and baby are doing great!

How to Give

2011-07-29T18:55:00.009-04:00

Matthew 6 begins with the words "take heed." We are warned to guard against hypocrisy in our devotion and in our duty for Jesus Christ. The word hypocrite means actor or pretender. The men in question (Scribes and Pharisees) were pretending to be righteous. They were guilty of giving, praying, and fasting in public only to be seen of men. The Lord said, "they have their reward." In other words they have no reward from God (1) and the only reward that they will receive is the "glory of men" (2).

True believer's must give, pray, and fast from the heart and to the Lord. I like the spirit in which the Old Testament Temple was built. 1 Chronicles 29 is particularly resourceful on the matter of giving. Verse 9 says, "Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy."

Practical Suggestions on How to Give:

GIVE HEARTILY

As stated above we must give from the heart or to the Lord. Colossians 3:23-24, "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

GIVE WILLINGLY

2Corinthians 8:1-3; 2Corinthians 9:7; 1 Chronicles 29:6, 9, 14, & 17.

GIVE CONVINCINGLY

In 1 Chronicles 29 notice that giving began with the king (1-5), then his staff of leaders (6-8), and finally the people gave willingly as well (9). Leadership set an example for the people to follow. The king was not only a pattern to follow but David's sizable offering undoubtedly convinced the people that this is for the Lord (1).

The truth is the Apostle Paul cited the churches of Macedonia in 2 Corinthians 8 not only to exemplify giving but to encourage giving. Notice carefully verse 8, "I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love."

Not by commandment but by the forwardness of others...meaning by the diligence or by the earnestness of the Macedonian churches.

GIVE PURPOSEFULLY

2 Corinthians 9:7, "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." In this verse the word "purposefully" means to bring forward. It refers to follow through. The church at Corinth failed to follow through. They promised but there was no performance (2 Co 8:11). Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 failed to perform and were punished.

GIVE CHEERFULLY

2 Corinthians 9:7, "...God loveth a cheerful giver." Most of us know that the word "cheerful" comes from a Greek word from which we get our English word "hilarious." Read 1 Chronicles 29 and note the rejoicing, the great joy, and the worship in the chapter.

GIVE PROPORTIONATELY

1 Corinthians 16:1-3. Notice in particular verse 2 which states, "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come." On a practical note a wealthy individual can potentially give more than a man with an average income. Interestingly enough Jesus watched the rich cast into the treasury much money compared to the widows two mites. I am not trying to take away from the fact the widow "cast in more than they all" but rather warn against withholding more than necessary (Pr 11:24-25). Notice again what David was able do in 1 Chronicles 29. By today's standards David gave multiplied millions out of his own wealth.

GIVE REGULARLY

1 Corinthians 16:2, "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store..."

GIVE LIBERALLY

Pr 11:24-25; 2 Co 8:2; 2 Co 9:6

GIVE SACRIFICIALLY

2 Corinthians 8:9, "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."

2 Co 8:1-3

Installing Windows

2011-07-28T13:11:00.003-04:00

New Church Auditorium Windows

2011-07-27T11:35:00.004-04:00

Thank You Friends for the Flowers!

2011-07-26T19:34:00.004-04:00

AUGUST EVENTS

2011-07-26T08:16:00.007-04:00

Sunday, July 31 - Fifth Sunday Service (Larry Carlisle, Missionary to Uruguay)
Monday, August 1 at 2 pm - New England Baptist Fellowship at Gospel Baptist Church in Manchester, NH. New England pastor's at 2pm (Keith Phemister & Tom Faulk) and Dr. Bob Gray at 7 pm.
Saturday, August 6 at 5 pm - Missions Banquet (Speaker: Bob Mach, Ivory Coast, W. Africa)
Sunday, August 7 - Missions Sunday (Cal Fuller, Church Planter in New England and Bob & Becky Mach)
Thursday, August 11 at 5:30 pm - Wedding
Saturday, August 20 at 5 pm - Luau Banquet

Groton Electric to the Rescue

2011-07-25T09:15:00.003-04:00

Groton Electric has been very kind to FBC. They have cut down and chipped unwanted trees as requested, repaired or replaced parking lot lights. The other day they responded to a service call for which I am very thankful.

Spiritual Leadership Conference, Lancaster, CA

2011-07-20T12:12:00.014-04:00

I had the pleasure of attending the Spiritual Leadership Conference last week in Lancaster, CA with Laura, Joe, and Susannah! The week was packed with surprises and blessings from start to finish! The preaching and workshops were excellent and the music was amazingly edifying! The entire week brought glory to the Lord! The conference ended Thursday evening so we decided to take a trip to Malibu on Friday and view the ocean. We had a wonderful and refreshing time. I'm looking forward to SLC 2012!

"I LOVE AMERICA" SUNDAY

2011-06-30T09:11:00.001-04:00

What to do with your Grief

2011-06-27T11:37:00.014-04:00

1 Peter 2:19-25

If we are not careful our heartache, grief, suffering, or trouble can cause us to become irrational and do things that are not pleasing to the Lord. When Israel was pinned down in the wilderness between the Red Sea and Pharaoh's army they were stricken with fear and became very irrational in their words and behavior.They said to Moses in Exodus 14, "Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians? For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness."

And again in Numbers 14, after spying out Canaan, revolt, rebellion, and an attempt to kill Moses arose in the camp.

The human nature does not respond very well to change, challenge, abnormal circumstances, suffering, or trial. Think for a moment how Joesph's brothers treated him. How about the reaction of Dinah's brothers when they found out that their sister was defiled (Ge 34). Yes, crimes were committed but justice must be meeted out properly. Anger, revenge, and so forth is not the proper way to handle your grief.

The principle "Act don't react" is a good rule to follow. Reacting to circumstances can lead you to do something foolish and regrettable. Act in accordance with Scripture. What would Jesus do? How did He respond to His grief, suffering, and abuse? 1 Peter 2 offers help!

ENDURE YOUR GRIEF (19-20)

The phrase "take it patiently" means to endure or persevere under pressure. This action is thankworthy and acceptable with God. May I say endure with dignity and not with a complaining spirit.

Acts 5:42 says after the disciples were beaten and threatened for preaching the Gospel, "And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name."

Ja 1:2, My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations...

Ja 5:11, Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

NEVER USE YOUR GRIEF as an excuse to overindulge, loose your temper, or sin (21-23)

To me this is an amazing portion of Scripture. Christ did not retaliate, He threatened not, and when He was reviled He reviled not again. He did not FIGHT against flesh and blood rather He FORGAVE His enemies.

I am also amazed at Job's response to grief (Job 2:13) upon loosing his 10 children.

Job 1:20-22, "Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

TURN YOUR GRIEF, SUFFERING, ENEMIES...OVER TO GOD (23)

He committed (or turned over or gave) His grief unto Him Who judgeth righteously. The Lord cares about all the concerns you and I may have.

1 Peter 5:7, Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Mt 11:28, Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Read Romans 12:17-21

USE YOUR GRIEF TO CONSOLE OTHERS WHO NEED HELP (24-25)

Isaiah 53, "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."

He endured the cross (He 12:2). Because of His sufferings, His stripes, and His sacrifice we are healed. Others can benefit and be blessed by the grief that you endure. The grief over the death of Lazarus turned into rejoicing and many people were saved as well (Jn 11:45).

Read carefully 2 Co 1:3-6.

Laura Faulk "Pastor's Wife of the Week"

2011-06-27T09:25:00.008-04:00

I am very grateful for my wife of 37 years. Thank God for her love, faithfulness, and help in the ministry. "Counted Faithful" a Christian ladies blog has chosen my wife as "Wife of the Week."

Click on the link and read a questionnaire that Laura answered regarding marriage and ministry.

http://bit.ly/jhBXC7

First Annual Youth Rally

2011-06-25T18:04:00.012-04:00

Thankful for an exciting start. Five churches were represented and many young people used the altar making decisions for Christ for which we thank God.

Youth Rally

2011-06-07T09:23:00.000-04:00

Dear Pastor/Youth Leader:

The First Baptist Church of Groton Massachusetts is excited to announce it's first annual Youth Revival, All on the Altar. At the First Baptist Church of Groton we believe that the strength of a local church is only as strong as its succeeding generation. Every aspect of this Youth Rally has been thought through with much prayer and fasting. There will be congregational singing, games, a special testimony, lunch, and Holy Spirit-filled preaching. Our purpose will be to challenge the young people to take their walk with the Lord more seriously and to get seriously involved in their church. We are inviting Fundamental Baptist churches across New England. Please consider attending “All on the Altar” Youth Rally on June 25, 2011.

The Location: The First Baptist Church of Groton, MA
The Day: Saturday, June 25, 2011
The Speaker: Pastor Dave Carlson, Gospel Baptist Church of Manchester, NH
The Schedule: 11am-2pm
The Cost: $5.00 per youth (Pastors, Youth Pastors/Leaders are free)

Missionaries to Cambodia

2011-06-06T08:57:00.014-04:00

Bounna and Thy Has, missionaries to Cambodia, spent Sunday at First Baptist sharing their vision and passion for the people of Cambodia. Bounna is from Pacific Baptist Church in Long Beach, CA and his wife, Thy, is from Greater Fall River Baptist Church in Fall River, MA. Their goal is to be on the field in March of 2012. We enjoyed their fellowship and getting to know this sweet couple.

Mother/Daughter/Friend Banquet

2011-06-04T11:49:00.018-04:00

"Sweet, Sweet Spirit" was the theme of this year's Mother/Daughter/Friend Banquet. The fellowship hall was decorated in a Candyland theme - very colorful and fun! The ladies at First Baptist Church did a great job bringing the reminders of the popular game out in the decorations. We had a fun night with lots of laughs and smiles! Mrs. Diana Harness from Arlington, TX was our special speaker.

Family Week

2011-06-04T11:32:00.003-04:00

Joe, Shannon, Laura, Tom, Tom, Karyn

We had the blessing of having all four of our children with us last week! It was a week of creating new memories. It had been 6 years since we've all been together. Now we all want to make it a yearly event! Laura and I have had so much joy watching our children grow into adults and start families of their own. We are thankful for all the fun we have when we all get together! We thank God for blessing us!

2011-05-29T07:50:00.002-04:00

The Bible promises to bless those who will commit to establish their home upon the principles of God's Word. Storms are inevitable however they can be weathered successfully with the help of the Lord. In a ever changing world we must determine to be steadfast and unmovable (1 Co 15:58) in our relationship with the Lord and with His unchanging Word.

Compare Matthew 7:24-25 with Matthew 7:26-27, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock."

Matthew 7:26-27, "And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."

The difference between success and failure; standing or falling is determined by what we do with God's Word. Obedience to Christ will make a difference in any nation, society, church, or home!

Let's be ever mindful of Psalm 1:1-3, "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

God's formula for success is unlike the world's formula. Success in the world is often associated with money, education, appearance, possessions, talent, and so forth...none of these things are wrong in themselves but they are not the criteria by which we value the worth of people and these things have nothing to do with God's blessing. Someone once said that real success in life is knowing God's will and doing it. The truth is success in the Christian life is always associated with God's Word...the Bible!

It's not enough to own a Bible...a believer in Christ must determine to obey the Bible. God's Word is the ROCK upon which we build our lives. In society today believer's are susceptible to the influence of humanism, Hollywood, and ungodly philosophy. God's Word ought to be our primary source of influence by which we establish our homes. God blesses conformity to His Word not to the world!

Opportunities in May

2011-05-23T12:26:00.001-04:00

Sunday, May 8-June 19 - Built On The Rock (Helpful Bible Messages on Home/Marriage)
Friday, May 27 - Mother/Daughter/Friend Banquet
Sunday, May 29 - Fifth Sunday Service
Monday, May 30 - Memorial Day

2011-05-23T11:55:00.004-04:00

This week our entire family will be together for the first time in 6 years. They are coming to attend our annual Mother/Daughter/Friend Banquet on Friday. Tom our oldest son and his wife April and their children arrived Saturday morning. Tom preached both services yesterday and April and the children played the piano and sang special music. It was a wonderful day in the house of God.

All Day Work Day

2011-05-14T17:25:00.007-04:00

Thank the Lord for the people of FBC who volunteered to give their Saturday to do some Spring cleaning and yard work at the church. Ladies thank you for cleaning the inside of the building and men thank you for your help outside installing the drainage pipe.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3, "We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ..."

Is the RISEN Saviour your PERSONAL Saviour?

2011-04-24T10:06:00.000-04:00

The Bible says in Romans 10:9-11, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."

And verse 13, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

In John 11:25 Jesus said, "...I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live."

Our Lord's resurrection completed the purchase of your eternal salvation. His death, burial, and resurrection is the "Good News" or the Gospel whereby we are saved. Paul put it this way, "it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth" in Romans 1:16.

Call on Him at once and make personal what Christ has done publicly for you! To know Him personally by faith is know eternal life!

John 17:3, And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Building Bridges

2011-04-12T10:12:00.010-04:00

I read this, “Vision is the eye of faith to see the invisible, a decision to get it started, and burden to make it happen.”

It is one thing to dream big it’s quite another to get it started and make it happen.

I believe Nehemiah had a burden, a passion, and a vision to rebuild Jerusalem and he successfully communicate his vision to others (Neh 2:18). Consequently he got it started and made it happen in 52 days.

Bridges must be built as it were to make it happen. Someone said, “Vision is a bridge to walk from the past to the future.” Nehemiah’s burden for Jerusalem bridged Israel’s bitter past to a bright future.

I like what Vance Havner said, “A Vision must be followed by the Venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps - we must step up the stairs.”

Notice the "venture" or the "Bridge Building" if you please in the Book of Nehemiah:

Praying - The Book of Nehemiah records prayer. Nehemiah's personal prayers (1:4), his penitential prayers (1:5-11), and persistent prayers (4:9).
Working - Chapter 3 records the people repairing the gates. The people had a mind to work (4:6). Vision requires physical work and great sacrifice.
Watching - They set a watch (4:7-11) to protect themselves and the work God called them to do.
Fighting - They ignored the enemy (Neh 6:1-3) and they prepared themselves to fight against the enemy (4:12-23). At no time did the work at this time cease.
Leading – Nehemiah displays a godly leadership and genuine concern for the welfare of the people (5). He leads “in the fear of the Lord.”
Trusting – The enemy attempts to instill fear in the people and run them off however Nehemiah continues to lead and labor in faith (6) finishing the wall in 52 days.

When the bridge is built or when a vision comes to fruition it breathes life into a people or a ministry. Without a vision we are well nigh hopeless. Solomon put it this way, “Where there is no vision, the people perish…”

PRICELESS!

2011-04-05T08:55:00.006-04:00

Our grandson Isaiah is "reading" his Bible on his way to Nana's for the day! Priceless!

How to Keep from Falling

2011-03-28T13:46:00.018-04:00

The Book of Galatians is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the churches he planted in southern Galatia during his first missionary journey. Many of the Jewish converts in the churches were "betwitched" (charmed) according to Galatians 3:1. Some men (Judaizers) crept in as it were and troubled the churches by preaching a perverted gospel message (justification by the law). Paul writes to refute justification by the law and reinforces justification by faith (Ga 2:16).

However some of Paul's converts had "fallen from grace" (Galatians 5:4). What does this mean? It means that they fell back into the law (Judaism). They did not lose their salvation rather they fell from a position/conviction they once held (justification by faith). And so Paul writes to restore doctrinal order and to remind them to "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage" (Ga 5:1).

Here are a few suggestions from Galatians that will help you to Stand and not fall:

KNOW YOUR BIBLE

In his sermon "What the Bible Says Is So" Dr. Roy Thompson said, "It is much more important to know the Bible than to spend all your time learning about the Bible."

The problem among the churches in Galatia is that they were not firmly grounded. They failed to understand the purpose of the law. In chapter 3 Paul reminds them of its purpose and then in chapter 4 he uses an allegory to illustrate its purpose. Paul spent a lot of time on the subject...why? Because it was in part what led to their fall.

Col 2:7, "Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."

WALK IN THE SPIRIT - GALATIANS 5:16-26

Great teaching here on the Spirit in the context of troubled churches by false teaching.

Walk in the Spirit by yielding to His leadership and to His authority. Make yourself aware of His permanent presence in your life!

The Spirit of God will "guide you into all truth" according to John 16:13.

STAY IN CHURCH - GALATIANS 6:1-10

Those that fell back into the Law were undoubtedly in need of restoration (Ga 6:1). Those that were spiritual were obligated to help those who were troubled and to restore them back to a place of usefulness.

The word restore means "to mend." The word restore is also the same word “mend” in Mt 4:21, “And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.”

The disciples would wash and mend their tattered and torn nets daily. Mend back into service! In Luke 5 the nets broke under the weight of their catch. Verse 6, “…they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.”

Torn nets will not be very effective consequently they must be repaired. When Christians fall they become like tattered nets – ineffective until they are restored to usefulness.

If you are in any trouble at all...Stay in church to receive the help you need from those who care about you the most!

Summary:

Know the WORD to avoid FALLING

Walk in the SPIRIT to avoid the FLESH

Stay in CHURCH to avoid FUTILITY

Amazing Grace

2011-03-26T08:45:00.002-04:00

Last Thursday our oldest granddaughter, Ginnie, won first place in the Tennessee Elementary State Competition for Christian schools . She competed in Sacred Music.

Made Of The Right Stuff

2011-03-21T18:43:00.004-04:00

A little brown cork
Fell in the path of a whale
Who lashed it down
With his angry tail
But in spite of its blows
It quickly arose
And floated serenely
Before his nose
Said the cork to the whale
You may flap and sputter and frown
But you never, never, can keep me down
For I’m made of the stuff
That is buoyant enough
To float instead of drown

- Pameii

When You Don't Know What To Do!

2011-03-15T09:53:00.009-04:00

In Exodus 14:10 and following Israel is in a predicament. They had just left Egypt after being in bondage for 430 years. When Pharaoh finally let them go, God did not lead them through the land of the Philistines but God led them through the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. In fact Exodus 14 says that God told Moses to take them into the wilderness and encamp by the sea after which they will be very confused. The word "entangled" in Exodus 14:3 means to be perplexed or confused. God knew that Pharaoh would soon pursue after Israel in the wilderness. Sure enough Pharaoh's armies caught up to Israel and frightened them. They were not only frightened but they became very irrational in their behavior and threatened to return to Egypt with or without Moses. They were perplexed, frightened, pinned down as it were, and prepared to die. Circumstances were overwhelming! They did not know where to go from where they were nor did they know what to do! Their reaction was irrational and irreverent to say the least.

When you don't know what to do:

CRY OUT UNTO THE LORD - VERSE 10

Sometimes "crying out to God' is all that you and I can do. When David return with his men to their camp in Ziklag and discovered that the city was burned with fire and their wives and children were taken captive by the Amalekites, the Bible says they wept. 1 Samuel 30:4 says, "Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep."

Psalm 77:1-2, "I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord..."

WAIT ON THE LORD - VERSE 13

What an encouraging text! Stand still! When you don't know what to do...don't make a move! The truth is let go of the situation and wait on the Lord! Wait on Him for resolve, direction, help, and deliverance.

Psalm 25:4-5, "Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."

Waiting requires a patient spirit
Waiting requires trusting the wisdom of God
Waiting requires that you let go and let God

GO FORWARD IN OBEDIENCE TO THE LORD - VERSES 14-16

"No turning back" rather go forward in the direction of God's will. The Lord intervened and miraculously parted the Red Sea not for Israel to go back to Egypt but to go forward in the direction of Canaan. When you don't know what to do...do right! Stay in church, stay in your Bible, and stay on your knees. Guard against irrational decisions or decisions made in fear. Never retreat! Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on."

Family Picture Sunday

2011-03-13T18:36:00.000-04:00

Sunday, March 20 is the first day of spring and Family Picture Sunday at FBC of Groton. Pictures will be taken of each family in attendance after the morning service. Each family will receive their own photo as soon as they are professionally printed and framed.

Looking forward to a grand day in church and loads of excitement,

Pastor

Revival...New England Baptist Fellowship at Westbrook Baptist Church

2011-03-10T09:43:00.007-05:00

More Blessed to Give

2011-03-07T09:22:00.006-05:00

Yesterday's Roof Fund offering put us over our goal of $5000 by $95 of which will cover the cost of roofing materials for our church. We have decided to raise an additional $5000 to cover labor and other job related expenses. Praise God for your generous offerings toward this needy and important project.

Acts 20:35, "... It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Lauryn's Hiding Place

2011-02-26T11:07:00.000-05:00

March Events

2011-02-25T10:36:00.003-05:00

Saturday, March 5 - Prayer and Praise (Church Fellowship) at 5 pm
Sunday, March 6 - The Lord's Table
Monday, March 7 - Prison Ministry at Fort Devens in Ayer, MA
Sunday, March 13 - Daylight Savings Time Begins (Spring Ahead One Hour)
Monday, March 14 - New England Baptist Fellowship at WBC in Westbrook, ME
Saturday, March 19 - Wedding at 2 pm
Sunday, March 20 - Family Picture Sunday (First Day of Spring)
Sunday, March 27 - SNAC Fellowship

2011-02-14T10:04:00.031-05:00

Text: Luke 4:16-30

Christ was not accepted as the Son of God in Nazareth rather in Nazareth among His own countrymen he was commonly referred to as Joseph's son or the carpenter's son (Mt 13:55) of which is indicative of their unbelief (Mt 13:58). To say the least they became very angry and attempted to destroy our Saviour. See post "Not in Nazareth" from 3/27/2010.

Amazingly but not surprisingly Christ spoke with "gracious words." It was not how He spoke it was what He spoke that angered them. He did not tell them what they wanted to hear He told them what they needed to hear - the truth about their unbelief and their need of the Gospel (Lu 4:18). In spite of their reactions, violence, anger, and the threat of being cast off the brow of the hill upon which the city was built Christ was gracious. He was gracious in His Person (Jn 1:14) and He was gracious in His preaching (Lu 4:22). In other words He did not utter an unkind word in His sermon delivery. Common courtesy is not compromise! It is not spiritual to be sarcastic and rude nor is the power of God associated with the foolishness and or the wisdom of this world. Our sermon presentation/delivery ought to be a demonstration of the Spirit and of power.

I like what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, "And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God."

2 Timothy 2:14 says, "Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers."

What does this mean? It means that vain talk, foolish jesting, and so forth can potentially turn people away. The word "subverting" is our English word "catastrophe." Words of no profit have the power to destroy.

Some words of "no profit."

Vain words - Eph 5:6; 2 Pe 2:18

Enticing words - 1 Co 2:4; Col 2:4

Flattering words - 1 Thess 2:4

Perverse words - Acts 20:30

Disputing words - Ro 14:1

Feigned words - 2 Pe 2:3

Evil words - Eph 4:25-32

Malicious words - 3 Jn 10

Grievous words - Pr 15:1

Slanderous words - Pr 18:8

Lying words - Pr 6:17

A brief Outline from the message on 'Gracious Words'

Gracious Words are:

PLEASANT WORDS

Notice a few benefits of pleasant words:

Pleasant words are conducive for learning (Pr 16:21)

Pleasant words deter anger (Pr 15:1)

Pleasant words are healthy (Pr 12:18; 16:24)

Pleasant words edify and minister grace (Eph 4:29-32)

PURE WORDS

Words that are sincere, honest, and true.

Pr 8:7, For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

Eph 4:15, But speaking the truth in love...

Eph 4:25, Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour...

PLAIN WORDS

Pr 8:8-9, All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

Plain words is commonly understood as being simple, clear, and straight forward. From the text it also implies uprightness or righteousness.

Pr 25:11, A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.