Baptist Testimony

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

June’s Word:  “Exceeding”

Ephesians 2:7 – “that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”

The “exceeding” ministry of God in the life of His followers was the primary emphasis of this year’s MARBC Men’s Retreat, held on May 1-3 at beautiful Lake Ann Baptist Camp and Retreat Center near Traverse City.  Over 400 men enjoyed wonderful worship, challenging messages from God’s Word, encouraging fellowship, and great meals.  We were blessed to discover that this was the first MARBC retreat for several men. Read the rest of this article »

From The Baptist Testimony - Volume 54 Number 6 June-July 2008

MARBC Talents for Christ Competition

MARBC teenagers, parents, and churches gathered at South Baptist Church on Saturday, April 19, for the annual MARBC Talents for Christ competition.  Talents for Christ (TFC) helps teens in grades 9-12 to develop their God-given talents for ministry within the local church. It encourages students to prepare and to gain skill for serving the Lord.  Expanded competition for this year’s event included three new categories – Art and Media Design for individual competition and Vocal Duet for group competition.  Additionally an “Open Division” was created that allows everyone in the youth group to participate and develop their God-given talents for ministry within the local church. Read the rest of this article »

June 8 First Baptist Church, Fenton

June 14 The wedding ceremony of Allison Floyd and Taylor Helmick!

June 22-27 GARBC Council of 18 meetings and Annual Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA

June 29 Maranatha Baptist Church, Springfield, OH

June 30-July 9 Vacation

July 13 Montrose Baptist Church, Montrose

July 20 Bethel Baptist Church, South Haven

August 3 Fellowship Baptist Church, East China

August 10 Indian River Baptist Church, Indian River

August 13 Baptists for Life staff devotions

Special note:  Dates are still available on Ken’s speaking calendar for the late summer and fall of 2008.

Please use our contact information to send all support checks, correspondence, church bulletins, newsletters and requests for speaking engagements.

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

May’s Word:  “Care”

As a young boy I was fascinated by the infant endeavors of the NASA space program.  I would sit mesmerized in front of our black and white television watching the grainy images of the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs as scientists and adventurers sought to learn as much as they could about the “final frontier.”  In its early days, the space program and America’s participation in the “space race” with the Soviet Union captured our nation’s attention.  It was not unusual for hours of network coverage (which was the only TV coverage in those days) to be devoted to the preparations of launching astronauts into space, sharing elementary simulated depictions of what might be happening in space, and speculating upon the successful return of the space capsule and its human occupants.   Read the rest of this article »

From The Baptist Testimony - Volume 54 Number 5 May 2008

Caring is a key dynamic of “Church Partnering Relationships” (CPR).  So far a dozen partnerships involving 24 churches have been arranged for this summer.  Remember to uphold these opportunities regularly in prayer in the weeks ahead.  Prayerfully consider ways in which you can be personally involved in demonstrating godly care for others this summer.

Church Partnering Relationships with 3 primary goals:
Caring:  a proactive vision towards mutual edification
Praying:  regular sharing of requests and initiatives that promote mutual prayer 
Resourcing:  embracing the mission of practical encouragement by outsourcing materials and personnel Read the rest of this article »

From The Baptist Testimony - Volume 54 Number 5 May 2008

Caring for Those Who Serve Us

MARBC Pastor Included in Military Deployment

We encourage the MARBC family to remember Pastor Ron Sischo and his family in prayer. Ron, an associate pastor at First Baptist Church in Saint Johns and a member of the US Navy Reserves, has recently been deployed to Iraq.  Ron’s wife, Pam, has given us ways in which we can share with Ron and his family during his deployment.   Read the rest of this article »

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

April’s Word: “Wash”

An old Hebrew proverb declares that “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” In his classic book, “Great Expectations,” Charles Dickens describes the meticulous work of Mrs. Joe as she prepared for her family’s Christmas gathering. From the new linens that replaced the worn versions to the scrumptious feast to be served at dinner, her goal was a perfect dining experience for the holiday. In summarizing her compulsive behavior, Dickens shares that Mrs. Joe was a very clean housekeeper who was obsessed by the motto “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” Read the rest of this article »

MARBC Men’s Retreat
May 1-3, 2008
Lake Ann Baptist Camp
“Being Men of Valor: How to Develop the Character of a Conqueror”
Keynote Speaker: Rev. Bill Jenkin
President, Continental Baptist Mission

Challenging Messages - Great Music — Sweet Fellowship — Delicious Food — Special Activities

Be sure to bring your own bedding, pillows, towels, ear plugs, and Bible

No price increase for 2008!!!
2 nights, 6 meals $105 / 1 night, 5 meals $77 / Friday only, 3 meals $41.
Pastors receive a 50% discount with an overnight stay

Brochures and registration forms are available from the MARBC online by clicking here at or by mail (Email Ken or Email Sharon or call the MARBC office / 616.364.5688)
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The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

March's Word: “Relationships”

Recently, while accompanying my wife Sharon and daughter Allison on a shopping expedition in preparation for Allison's upcoming June wedding, I stopped in a book store and did some browsing. On this particular visit I spent most of my time in the historical section and focused upon volumes dealing with wartime events. I left the bookstore once again captivated by the several stories of raw courage and human drama. Read the rest of this article »

BELMONT, WEST CANNON BAPTIST CHURCH (Pastor Doug Crawford) - West Cannon Baptist Church of Belmont, Michigan, is excited to announce the calling of Tim Sommers to the position of Pastor of Outreach and Discipleship. Prior to accepting this call, Tim and his wife Robin along with their two daughters, Michele and Nicole, were missionaries to Brazil with Baptist Mid-Missions. God has given Tim a passion for reaching the lost and disciplining believers, as well as the ability to teach and encourage people to reach out to their communities and share the love of Christ. The staff and church family at West Cannon are thrilled to have Tim and Robin join our pastoral staff. Read the rest of this article »

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

February's Word: “Partnering”

This past week our local news media shared stories commemorating the 30^th anniversary of the “blizzard of '78.” Sharon and I were newlyweds then and I was in my first year of seminary. We were snowed in at our rural trailer park for three and a half days. We spent time trying to stay warm and hoping that the power would stay on. I used some of the free time to catch up on collateral reading and reviewing Hebrew vocabulary. Alas, I must confess that more time was spent trudging back and forth through snow drifts to continue an impromptu Rook tournament with our special friends, Dave and Carolyn Culver. Those were the early days of what has become a lifelong ministry partnership that grows dearer with each passing year. Read the rest of this article »

You can also download a PDF of the February 2008 Baptist Testimony
(1 mb PDF; PC: Right click / MAC: Control click on the link and choose “Save As”)

MARBC NEWS & NOTES

FRUITPORT, Cloverdale Baptist Church (Pastor Joshua Rager) - Cloverdale Baptist Church held a 50^th anniversary celebration in October with 144 in attendance. Speakers for the day were former pastors Mark Jochen, Richard Wahl, and Johnathan Rager. There were three Charter Members in attendance who were recognized during the service. Two of the members appear in the picture with Pastor Joshua Rager: Virginia Mackenzie and Delores Osterhart. The third member, Herb Mackenzie, had to leave before the picture was taken. The church rejoices that in November eight individuals were added as members, including four through baptism. The church concluded their “Year of Jubilee” in December with a Christmas Concert and Drama. Read the rest of this article »

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

January's Word: “Church”

“So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.” Acts 16:5

The Need for a Pioneering Vision and Spirit

Some three hundred and fifty years ago, a shipload of pioneers landed on the northeast coast of America. The first year, they established a town. The next year, they elected a town government. During the third year, the town government revealed plans to build a road five miles west into the wilderness. Read the rest of this article »

You can also download a PDF of the January 2008 Baptist Testimony
(1 mb PDF; PC: Right click / MAC: Control click on the link and choose “Save As”)

MARBC NEWS & NOTES

GRAND RAPIDS, North Park Baptist Church (Joe Daniels) - North Park Baptist Church held a service of worship and commitment as they met on Sunday evening December 2, to install Pastor Joe Daniels as their new Lead Pastor. For the last 2 1/2 years Pastor Joe has served at North Park as Pastor of Outreach and Student Ministries. At the end of October 2006, former Senior Pastor Ken Floyd, concluded his ministry at the church to assume the MARBC State Representative role. As the search committee moved ahead on looking for a new leader, it became apparent that God already had him on staff at the church. This was affirmed by both the church board and a very strong vote of the congregation, leading to the calling of Pastor Joe. The service began with Associate Pastor Tom Rohrer calling the congregation to worship. The charge to the church was made by Rev. Bill Crowder, Director of Church Ministries and Publications at R.B.C. Ministries. The charge to the candidate was made by Rev. Barry Grahl, grandfather of the candidate. Pastor Joe followed with his heartfelt response in words of love and commitment to the congregation God has called him to shepherd. The congregation was lead by Deacon Chairman Larry High in reading a covenant of commitment to lovingly honor, follow, and serve along side of their new Pastor. Three of the deacons led in prayer over the candidate as pastors and deacons laid hands on Pastor Joe to dedicate his ministry to the Lord. The service was closed in prayer by Rev. Bob Allen, father in-law of the candidate. A great time of fellowship followed in the church fellowship hall. Read the rest of this article »

You can also download a PDF of the December 2007 Baptist Testimony
(1 mb PDF; PC: Right click / MAC: Control click on the link and choose “Save As”)

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

December's Word: “Room”

“And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7

“Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown,
When Thou camest to earth for me;
But in Bethlehem's home was there found no room
For Thy holy nativity.”
(”Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne,” Emily E.S. Elliott, 1836-1897)
Read the rest of this article »

You can also download a PDF of the December 2007 Baptist Testimony
(1 mb PDF; PC: Right click / MAC: Control click on the link and choose “Save As”)

GRAND RAPIDS, Highland Hills Baptist Church (Dave Lamb) - Highland Hills Baptist Church held a special service on September 9 to celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Pastor Dave Lamb's installation as Senior Pastor and 18 years of ministry on the pastoral staff. Pastor Dave and Brenda first came to Highland Hills to serve as Associate Pastor of Youth. The Lamb's former pastor, Rev. Edward Fuller (State Representative of the Wisconsin Association of Regular Baptist Churches), was the special speaker. Several family members also traveled to Grand Rapids to share in the special service and luncheon. We give thanks for God's blessings upon the Lambs, their three daughters, and the entire church family. Read the rest of this article »

You may also download the November 2007 Baptist Testimony (PDF Download 1.1 mb)

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

November's Word: “Striving”

“Discerning the Times and Seasons” was the theme of 65^th annual conference of the Michigan Association of Regular Baptist Churches. The conference was held October 22-24, 2007, on the beautiful campus of Lake Ann Baptist Camp near Traverse City, Michigan. The location for this year's conference allowed for a retreat-like atmosphere. Tuesday afternoon included free-time for attendees to take a color tour of the area and to be involved in other activities. Read the rest of this article »

Download the November 2007 Baptist Testimony (PDF Download 1.1 mb)

EMARBC Regional Fellowship - The 2007 Annual Meeting of the EMARBC was held at South Baptist Church of Flint on September 16. Nine fellowshipping churches joined together at 4 pm to hear Ken Rudolph speak on “Finishing Strong.” A brief business meeting of the EMARBC was held at 5 pm for election of officers and treasurers report. South Baptist provided a meal for the 300 attendees. Ken Rudolph spoke again to the youth of the area at 6:30 pm following some time of worship and praise music. During the youth rally, the adults were treated to a concert by harpist Greg Buchanan. Buchanan gave a wonderful concert utilizing several types of harps. He also shared the dynamic testimony of his conversion to Christ. The event, held for the first time on a Sunday, was received well by all who attended. The idea for the combined service came from the Grand Rapids fellowship's area “Worship Gathering” in 2006. Read the rest of this article »

The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

October's Word: “Listen”

“I will hear what God the LORD will speak; for He will speak peace to His people, and to His saints.” Psalm 85:8

Back in the days when the telegraph was the fastest method of long distance communication, a young man applied for a job as a Morse Code operator. Answering an ad in the newspaper, he went to the office that was listed. When he arrived, he entered a large, busy office filled with noise and clatter, including the sound of the telegraph in the background. Read the rest of this article »

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The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28
Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

September's Word: “Encourage”

As I edit this article, Sharon and I are traveling throughout Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula visiting many churches and their pastors and wives. Our goal is to encourage these special servants of Christ and discover ways in which to more effectively minister to them and with them. We have been both challenged and blessed by the commitment our colleagues in ministry demonstrate daily, sometimes in extremely difficult situations.
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The Word Has It

Ken Floyd, MARBC State Representative

“Strengthen me according to Your word,” –Psalm 119:28
August’s Word: “Answer”

The current summer season for the Floyds has involved traveling a few thousand miles to conferences, seminars, and church ministries on behalf of the MARBC fellowship. As I write this column, we are preparing for two major weeks of ministry traveling throughout the upper peninsula of Michigan. The purpose of the trip is to encourage pastoral couples and to minister to their churches. We also desire to learn of the opportunities and needs of this special group of God’s servants who are an important part of our church network.
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The Word Has It

Ken Floyd, MARBC State Representative

June & July’s Word: “Powerful”

Hebrews 4:12 - “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

The powerful impact of the Word of God in men's lives was the primary emphasis of this year's MARBC Men's Retreat, held on May 3-5 at beautiful Lake Ann Baptist Camp and Retreat Center near Traverse City. Close to 500 men enjoyed wonderful worship, encouraging fellowship, great meals, and beautiful weather. We were blessed to find that for several men in attendance this was their first MARBC retreat.
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The Word Has It

Ken Floyd, MARBC State Representative

May’s Word: “Remember”

“Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.” –Hebrews 13:7

May is a month usually identified by the beauty of spring and the observing of two special holidays - Mother’s Day and Memorial Day 1 had been prayerfully considering which of these topics would be the subject of this month’s column when God made it very apparent what it should be. For several months, the MARBC family had been joining many others in praying for Alf and Fran Nelson. Alf, a longtime pastor and former MARBC State Representative, had been battling cancer the past few months. God called Alf from his earthly home in Ovid, Michigan, to join Him in His heavenly home on Good Friday, April 6.
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The Word Has It
Ken Floyd, MARBC State Representative

“Strengthen me according to Your word,”
-Psalm 119:28

April’s Word: “Victory!”

By the year 1812, the majority of the European continent was under the control of the famed French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. In that year, Napoleon attacked Russia, which led to his downfall and abdication. He was then exiled to the little island of Elba in the Mediterranean Sea. Three years later, in March 1815, Napoleon escaped from Elba and returned to France. Men gathered once again under the French flag and Europe again faced the prospects of war.
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The Word Has It

Ken Floyd MARBC State Representative

“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28

March’s Word: “Path”

A new family in the neighborhood overslept, and their six-year-old daughter missed her school bus. The father, though late for work, agreed to drive her if she’d direct him to the school. They rode several blocks before she told him to turn the first time, then several more before she indicated another turn. This went on for 20 minutes. When they finally reached the school, it proved to be only a short distance from their home. The father asked his daughter why she’d led him in such a circle. The child explained, “That’s the way the school bus goes, Daddy. It’s the only way I know.”
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The Word Has It

Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

“Strengthen me according to Your word,”
-Psalm 119:28

February’s Word:

“Shadows”

As I write this column, the news media is focusing on the warmer than normal weather patterns of this winter season. Debates on the topic of global warming are commonplace these days. And while this has indeed been an unusual season, weather wise, one characteristic common to every Michigan winter remains - gray, cloudy skies. That is why although February is the shortest of all months; it seems to linger longer than any other.
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The Word Has It
“Strengthen me according to Your word,” Psalm 119:28

Ken Floyd
MARBC State Representative

Welcome to the first issue of The Baptist Testimony for the year 2007! With this new issue come new features. This is the first issue that I have composed as the new state representative of the MARBC. Some things remain the same, other things have changed. A new column greets you on the front page, along with a new picture - mine! Following in the footsteps of my faithful predecessor, Maynard Belt, I will seek to encourage the good people of our wonderful fellowship of churches by writing a column that focuses upon Biblical principles. Because of this emphasis, I have chosen “The Word Has It” as the new heading for my column. Each month we will take a look at a practical Biblical principle by focusing upon a key word. Along the way there will be other features added to the “BT” from time to time to help it continue to be an effective tool of encouragement and information for our state fellowship. I encourage your input and suggestions. You can email them to me or through regular mail. The MARBC office address is posted later in this issue of the BT. Thank you for your prayerful support as we look forward to the exciting days of change that lie ahead!
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Practical Ideas for Growth

Read through the Bible in a year. Why not consider reading through the Word of God this year? There are several formats and ways to accomplish this. Many study Bibles include reading schedules. Many ministries offer a folded daily record that you can keep in your Bible. I have recently enjoyed a paperback Bible entitled, “The One Year Chronological Bible.” It includes daily scripture readings that allow you to read the Bible books from an historical, chronological perspective. This allows the reader to appreciate, for example, how particular Psalms, prophecies, and epistles, fit within the historical record of the text. Perhaps you desire this year would be to read through the New Testament in a year (possibly including the poetical and wisdom literature of the Old Testament.) Some may choose to focus upon an in depth study of a certain section of scripture. Whatever you decide, make 2007 a year to focus upon the Word of God!
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64th Annual MARBC Conference Highlights

“Challenging Servants for Changing Times!”

This years annual conference, held October 23-24, was memorable for many reasons. Because of this year’s historic transition of state representatives for our MARBC Fellowship, the theme for our conference included timely messages on The Changing of the Guards in Scripture. The opening message was delivered by outgoing state representative Maynard Belt entitled, “The Changing of the Guards,” using as an example the intimate relationship of Elijah and Elisha.
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CASS CITY, First Baptist Church (Pastor Eric Holmgren) - “125 Years of Holding Forth the Word of Truth” was the theme of the annual missions conference held November 3-5. The conference began with a delicious dinner followed by a power point presentation on the history of the church. A long list of names was read of members who have gone out to be pastors, pastors wives, youth workers, missionaries, and other Christian workers. The church has a rich heritage of sending forth laborers into the field. Missionaries Jeremy and Jodi Smith (CBM), Patrick and Ruth Neff (Friends of Israel), and Ben and Dani Jacobs (BMM) challenged the congregation to be a light in their community, to reach out to the Jew, and to put force to their faith (move out for Christ). Those attending the conference were richly blessed by the testimonies of the missionaries and the preaching of the Word.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt MARBC State Representative

Thanks For The Memories!

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8

Where has this year gone! It seems like only yesterday we announced that this would be our last year of ministry with the MARBC. It has truly been a good and busy year as we have had the opportunity to speak in 51 churches including a 27 hour Masters Module at the Regular Baptist Seminary in Curitiba, Brazil. Other areas of ministry included serving as chairman of the Continental Baptist Missions Search Committee, attendance at the regular meetings as a board member and council member of CBM, BMM, and Bible Tracts, Inc. Of course, there has been the daily office load of caring for correspondence, editing the Baptist Testimony, counseling, meetings, planning retreats and conferences and simply assisting with requests and needs of our some 200 MARBC churches. Though our health has managed quite well, early on in the year Ann did struggle with a very serious hand surgery and recover) - which proved a challenge in the office. Also, we are glad to report that my brother, wayward from the Lord for many years, after 3 months in hospitals, is doing much better and has recently joined Pastor Coon’s church at Northeastern Baptist in Kalamazoo. Thank you so much for praying. Ann and I want you to know-that we are very pleased with the Council of Fifteen’s decision in selecting Ken and Sharon Floyd to replace us in this ministry. They are a lovely couple with a great heart for ministry’ and our Fellowship of churches. We pray God’s richest blessings upon them.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Introducing the New MARBC State Representative Elect

by Pastor Tom Townsend
MARBC Search Committee Chairman
First Baptist Church, Rochester

After months of searching, hours of prayer and interviews, it is my privilege to introduce to you our new State Representative for our MARBC. Before I do that, I want to thank the members of the Search Committee: Mark Cizauskas, Doug Compton, Doug Crawford, Will Davis, and Bob McNeil for their wisdom and insight as we fulfilled this assignment. I also want to thank our MARBC Fellowship for their encouragement and input as many shared ideas and potential candidate names, always looking to God for His mind and His direction in this important matter. As a Search Committee, we coveted your prayers and encouragement. Thank you for your investment in this important matter.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

The Power of A Midnight Song!

But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25

No doubt by now, in my writings, you are well aware that I enjoy reading the sermons of George Morrison (1866-1928), a Presbyterian pastor and preacher born in Scotland. The pastor of Wellington Church, Glasgow, the last twenty-six years of his life, his ministry primarily consisted of personal visits, postcards and letters for all those in his care who were sick or in sorrow or in trouble. He chose not to serve on committees, preferring to spend his time in what he considered the most important responsibilities to his church - mornings in study and afternoons in visiting his congregation. Many of his sermons and devotional thoughts have been put in print. In his volume entitled, Wind on the Heath, he has a sermon entitled, “Unconscious Ministries,” wherein he states that all of us exercise unconscious ministries and opportunities of making others aware of the goodness and grace of God in our lives. He references Paul and Silas, who sang at midnight while under adverse circumstances, not particularly paying attention that the prisoners were listening to them.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

THE NATIONAL GARBC CONFERENCE was held this year, June 27-30, in the capitol of our State, Lansing, MI. Hundreds of Regular Baptists gathered to hear good sound Bible teaching and preaching centered around the theme, “Reflecting God Among the Nations.” Joining us for this year’s conference were our brothers and sisters from the Fundamental Baptist Fellowship Association (FBFA). Speakersand leaders from both Fellowships participated in the general sessions and workshops. On Tuesday prior to the beginning of the conference more than 100 were in attendance for the Pre-conference Ministry Symposium on “Reshaping Global Missions in the 21^st“. Seven new churches were added to the GARBC Fellowship including the Cloverdale Baptist Church, Pastor Joshua and Leillani Rager, Fruitport, MI, which came into the MARBC last fall. Two resolutions were approved by the messengers on “Biblical Preaching and Teaching“, and “The Integrity of the Biblical Canon.” You will find these printed in the September issue of the Baptist Bulletin along with conference highlights, business matters and election of new members to the Council of Eighteen. You may also visit the GARBC website (www.garbc.org) for details and messages delivered during the week. One challenging sermon was by one of our own, Pastor Mike Eleveld, Berean Baptist Church in Portage, who preached on “Good Ambassadors“, from II Corinthians 5:16-21.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

“Divine Interventions - Living with the Living God”
The book of Daniel brought to life at our annual Men's Retreats!

Some 450 men enjoyed our two annual MARBC Men's Retreats May 4-6 & 11-13 at beautiful Lake Ann Baptist Camp near Traverse City. Though the sunshine was scarce and the showers were soggy, spirits were not dampened and many fishermen and golfers still attacked their sports with great fervor and fanaticy (?). This year's speaker, Rev. Doug Crawford, Pastor/Teacher, West Cannon Baptist Church, Belmont, brought four messages from the book of Daniel on the theme, “Divine Interventions - Living with the Living God.” Each of the messages presented a portrait of God's divine intervention in the lives of Daniel, the three Hebrew children and Nebuchadnezzar. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Don’t Forget Our Mothers!

Some time ago I noticed Ann sitting on the edge of the bed, with moistened eyes and a forlorn look. When I asked what was the matter, she quivered, “Today is my Mom’s birthday and I miss her.” With a gentle hug I shared that I missed her too. Several years earlier she had had a massive stroke and entered into the presence of the Lord at 76 years of age and I had the privilege of officiating her celebration service. My Mother passed away on Christmas Day, 1978, at the young age of 58. We both expressed how we missed our mothers and think of them often, for some reason, more so as we get older.

Mothers are very special people and should not be forgotten but honored, just as the Scriptures state (Eph. 6:2). In one church I pastored, Mother’s Day always brought the largest attendance of the year. Children and grandchildren, even many who were wayward, would always honor their mother and grandmother on Mother’s Day by coming to church with them. It was a great opportunity to preach the gospel and emphasize the importance of walking with Christ. That same church also provided carnations for everyone present, white ones if your mother was still living and red ones if they had passed away. It was always a very special day of the year and we always tried to make it that way. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Things!

“Morrison of Wellington,” George H. Morrison (1866-1928), during his era was no doubt the most popular preacher in Scotland. A Presbyterian pastor, for twenty-six years he faithfully shepherded the flock at Wellington Church, Glasgow. Surrendered totally to ministry, he chose not to serve on committees, preferring rather to spend his time on what he considered were his greatest responsibilities to the church - mornings in study and afternoons in visiting his congregation, making an average of one thousand calls a year! Primarily an expository preacher, his Sunday evening sermons targeted the specific needs of his sheep and standing room only crowds gathered to hear him. Many of these sermons are in print and worthy of your reading. I like what Warren Wiersbe said of Morrison in his volume, “Living with the Giants,” a statement which pastors should take to heart: “Morrison's preaching strength lay in his knowledge of the Bible, his knowledge of his people and their needs, and his ability to put both together in an imaginative way that reached the heart.”
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

There's No Testimony Without The Test!

I had never seen it before. It was a piece of wood about 36 inches long, 4 inches high and one half inch thick. It was sitting on a shelf in a Christian Book Store on the eastern side of our state where we had gone for a brief get-away after the Christmas holidays. Ann and I enjoy visiting unique shops and this one contained several quaint items, most of which we had seen before. But there sat this one piece of wood, really not so unique in itself, but the saying inscribed on it was what caught my attention - “There Can Be No Testimony Without The Test!” Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Matthew Henry’s New Year!

Matthew Henry was born in 1662 at Broad Oak, Flintshire, Wales. Son of the evangelical Church of England minister, Philip Henry, he was educated privately in the home by his father, and later at an academy at Islington. A studious boy, he learned well Latin, Greek, Hebrew and French. Matthew Henry dated his conversion to Christ at about ten years of age. After his formal education, he went to London to attend a Nonconformist academy and then read law at Gray’s Inn. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

63^rd Annual MARBC
Conference Highlights
“The Courage to Stand!”

Berean Baptist Church, Portage, Pastor Mike Eleveld, staff and people were our very gracious hosts for this year’s 63^rd Annual MARBC Conference. October 24-25 were the dates and Berean more than put out the red carpet making us feel right at home and meeting all of our needs with happy smiles on their faces. Thank you for being such a blessing.
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From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

2005 Annual Report

“…I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.” Ephesians 3:7

Paul’s testimony became mine as I claimed the above verse on the day of my ordination into the gospel ministry. I have never ceased to marvel that God would choose me to be one of his servants. In February, Ann and I will observe our 40th year in full time pastoral ministry and I can not adequately express how honored we are to have had such a call in our lives. It seems like only yesterday that we packed our few belongings in a U-haul and headed North to our first pastorate which numbered about 40 people, an old parsonage and $45 a week in salary. We couldn’t have been happier! Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative
“The Courage to Stand!”
“Do not be dismayed before their faces…”
Jeremiah 1:17

Well, dear friends, once again we are just around the corner from our 63^rd Annual MARBC Conference which will be hosted this year, October 24-25, by Pastor Mike Eleveld and the dear folks at the Berean Baptist Church in Portage. You will enjoy their beautiful facilities and certainly will enjoy their gracious hospitality. The very first MARBC state meeting took place in 1942, exactly 10 years after the initiation of the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches in 1932. Since our inception this Fellowship of churches has stood strong for the “fundamentals of the faith.” I am very pleased to be part of an association that has had courage to stand against the onslaughts of these great Scriptural truths. I thank the Lord that through the years our pastors and churches have been faithful to the cause of Christ. Being fully aware that the devil is still about his business we must also be about ours, being good keepers of the faith, until our Lord comes again. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

A Treatise For Local Churches On Pastoral Sabbaticals

I have been contemplating this subject for sometime and decided that I needed to give attention to writing about it. When statisticians tell us that fifteen hundred pastors leave the ministry each month due to moral failure, spiritual burnout, or contention in their churches, fifty percent of pastors’ marriages will end in divorce and seventy percent of pastors constantly fight depression, something certainly needs to be addressed. Have you ever considered that your pastor might need a time away from ministry in order to be refreshed and possibly even extend his years of service to the Lord and His people? In my study I am finding that Baptists are far behind some denominations in caring for their pastor’s physical and spiritual welfare, many even having a “sabbatical policy” in their constitutions. There is not space to say all that I have written about this subject but I would be glad to send “A Treatise for Local Churches on Pastoral Sabbaticals” to any church leaders who are interested. Simply drop me a note or an e-mail. Hopefully I can entice you to do so by sharing with you a brief summary. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

THE NATIONAL GARBC CONFERENCE was held this year in hot and sunny Lakeland, FL, June 28-July 1, at the Lakeland Convention Center. Hundreds of Regular Baptists gathered to hear good sound Bible teaching and preaching around the theme, “His Vision – My Vision.” Eleven new churches were added to the Fellowship and two resolutions were approved by the messengers: Preterism and the Future, Physical Fulfillment of Biblical Prophecies and Justification and the New Perspectives on Paul, both of which will be printed in the September issue of the Baptist Bulletin along with all of the other conference highlights. Dr. Jim Vogel, pastor of South Baptist Church in Flint, was re-elected to the Council of Eighteen. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

“Real Men Love God’s Word” a Reality at Annual MARBC Men’s Retreats!

Some 560 men attended the two weekends of the MARBC Men’s Retreats May 5-7 & 12-14 at beautiful Lake Ann Baptist Camp near Traverse City. Even though this year’s weather was less than desirable it did not keep the men from enjoying some very special time away from their daily routines of life. A little rain didn’t dampen their parade at all! This year we had a variety of speakers including Pastor Bob McNeil, Shelby Rd. Baptist Church in Shelby, State Representative Maynard Belt, and nationally known evangelist Rev. Jason Nightingale, all speaking on the theme of the power of God’s Word. Brother McNeil spoke on “God’s Transforming Power” from John Chapter five; Brother Belt spoke on “My Bible and I” from Psalm 19:7-14; and Brother Nightingale on Friday night gave his personal testimony and a dramatic recitation of the first epistle of John and Saturday morning quoted and expounded several chapters of the Gospel of John. We rejoice that during both weekends many men committed to making the Word of God their Friend. Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Tested By Fire!

“We Shouldn’t retreat or lose heart when unexpected things happen to us. Instead, we should submit to the One Who knows best and Who will test our hearts by fire as long as He likes.”  –Chrysostom Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Exposing The Myths Of The Church #7

It’s Not Important To Be Part Of a Fellowship Of Churches - We Can Go It Alone!

John Donne, a minister and poet, once wrote: “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” King Solomon said in Proverbs 18:1: “A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire.” One thing for sure, as pastors and local independent Baptist Churches, we do not stand alone in the work of the ministry and we are just a piece of the larger work, just a part of the main! Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Exposing The Myths Of The Church
Myth #6

If The Church Lights Are On - The Lost Will Come!

Some of the older saints of our congregations will recognize these words, “If the church lights are on - the lost will come!” Actually, there was an era in which this was true. At the turn of the last century, there were many who made their way to the House of the Lord because there were not all of the other attractions of the world, and they often sought refuge in a place that could give them solace and peace. Have we not heard of the wanderer passing the church at night, seeing the lights, hearing the singing, and going inside to see what was happening? Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Exposing The Myths Of The Church

The Seven Deadly Sins Really Aren”t That Deadly Anymore!

I once read of a pastor who announced in a sermon on sin that there were 789 different kinds. That week in opening his mail there were 94 requests from members of his church desiring a complete listing of all 789 sins! Concerning the seven deadly sins, Norwegian Lasse Tonnesson, in 1982, somehow managed to successfully commit all seven deadly sins in a record-setting 32 minutes and 19 seconds! He earned himself not only the respect of his countrymen, Read the rest of this article »

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

Exposing The Myths Of The Church

Change In The Church Is Of The Devil!

Let’s confess! Change bothers all of us! Just try sitting in a different seat around the dinner table and watch the response! Just take another member’s seat at church! Just try taking another route home from work! Just try telling the dog he can’t sleep at the foot of the bed anymore! Change has been around since Adam and Eve and sin in the garden. I don’t recall which translation, but Adam said to Eve, “My dear, we are living in a period of transition.” Read the rest of this article »

Volume 50, Number 50, December, 2004
Issue of the Baptist Testimony

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

62^nd Annual MARBC State Meeting
“The Hand of God and the Arm of Flesh!”

First Baptist Church, Rochester, Pastor Tom Townsend, staff and people were our hosts for the 62^nd Annual State Conference October 25-26, and what gracious hosts they were. They greeted us with open arms and more than put out the red carpet. It takes a host church weeks of diligent preparation while carrying on their daily ministries to make such a conference a blessing and they did it in high fashion. Thank you, Pastors and people, for being such faithful, loving and giving servants of the Lord. It was so greatly appreciated. Read the rest of this article »

Volume 50, Number 10, November - 2004
Issue of the Baptist Testimony

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative

The State Rep’s 2004 Annual Report

“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God…” Isaiah 61:10

Where has this year gone? It seems like only yesterday we were meeting at our annual conference at beautiful Lake Ann Baptist Camp. Someone once wisely said, “Time goes, you say? Ah, no! Alas, time stays, we go!” Well, needless to say, as I once again look over the past year and attempt to put a year of ministry on one page, I can truly say that Ann and I have been “going!” I don’t wish to bore you with detail but here are some highlights. Read the rest of this article »

Volume 50, Number 9, October - 2004 Issue of the Baptist Testimony

From Where I Stand
Maynard H. Belt
MARBC State Representative
"The Hand of God and the Arm of Flesh!"

Well, dear friends, once again we are just around the corner from our 62^nd Annual MARBC Conference which will be hosted this year, October 25-26, by Pastor Tom Townsend and the dear folks at the First Baptist Church in Rochester. You will enjoy their lovely facilities, as together, we worship and learn from the Lord. For nearly 30 years I have been attending these conferences, even before I was a part of the MARBC Fellowship, and I have never been disappointed yet.
Read the rest of this article »

We Don’t Have Enough Money To Take on Missionaries!

From: Volume