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Bible Study Commentaries
Apr 14, 2013
To be holy in a religious sense means to be separated from a life given to sin and being devoted or separated to God. As such, it can denote a quality of existence, character, or acts which set us apart from an evil culture. In calling Israel to be a holy people, God intended for them to demonstrate their differences from their surrounding nations in the way they acted as well as the character they demonstrated.
Apr 14, 2013
At the conclusion of chapter one, Paul expressed grief at the lack of loyalty to the Gospel demonstrated by many of the Christians in the Roman province of Asia. Indeed, many turned away from the message of Paul’s Gospel (1 Tim. 1:15). Baptist church membership rolls are filled with individuals who have turned away from faithfulness to the Gospel.
Apr 9, 2013
In studying the social and moral issues addressed in today’s study, we have to remember the circumstances the Israelites endured. Imagine over two million people at the base of Mount Horeb, boxed in on three sides. In the narrow, confined area, the people formed a huge tent city. Add animals of all kinds and children almost without number and conflicts between neighbors would be almost inevitable. Disputes would arise between families, some brought on by intermingling children trying to entertain themselves, animals violating someone else’s supposed turf, and other numberless disagreements. Who was to mediate these disputes and on what legal basis? The law given by God through Moses provided the basis for the civil and religious society.
Apr 9, 2013
“Semper Fidelis”—meaning “always faithful” or “always loyal”—serves as the motto of the U.S. Marine Corps. Christians affirm a threefold motto of faith, hope, and love. The biblical concept of faith encompasses the three pillars of commitment, trustworthiness and loyalty. May Christians be “always loyal.”
Mar 31, 2013
The battles of the American Revolutionary War helped shape us as a nation. Just to mention some of them strikes a responsive thrill in many of us. To name a few, Bunker Hill, Saratoga, Lexington, and Yorktown stand out. Some of the U.S. Navy types remember United States aircraft carriers named for famous battles. Yet, the date that defines us happened before the war began. July 4, 1776, is the day we celebrate the Declaration of
Mar 31, 2013
Growth in the Christian faith is a journey. In an era of instant everything from grits to potatoes, some Christians desire instant sanctification. God’s normal pattern of growth is through the process of holy habits. Paul concluded his letter to his younger ministerial associate by describing some of the holy habits necessary for Christian growth. While Paul addressed Timothy in his role as pastor, the principles outlined by Paul apply to all Christians.
Mar 24, 2013
To make this study have the emphasis it deserves, I’m going to give an overview suggested by J. Sidlow Baxter in his commentary Explore the Book. He suggests that either by accident or design, the Book of John follows the topics given in the furnishings of the tabernacle. The outline is as follows: The Messiah-God, 1:1-18; The Brazen Altar of Sacrifice, 1:19-2:11; The Brazen Laver of Cleansing, 2:12-4:2; The Table of Showbread, 4:3-7:53; The Golden Lampstand, 8:1-13:30; The Golden Altar of Incense, 13:31-17:26; The Ark of the Covenant, 18:1-20:18; The New Covenant, 20:19-21:25, and 21:1-25, Peter’s call to the pastorate. Now, we look at John 20:1-18.
Mar 24, 2013
The centerpiece of the Christian faith is the affirmation of the literal, bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Without the resurrection of Jesus, Christianity could not and cannot exist. God’s action in raising Jesus validated, certified, and authenticated Jesus’ claims regarding His identity and the purpose for which He came—to save people from their sins.
Mar 17, 2013
During my college days, we used to have a ministerial program with participating churches called “H-Day,” named after Howard College, now Samford University. We supplied “preacher-boys” to an association in South Alabama, which necessitated our spending Saturday at guest homes. I preached at my assigned church on the subject of a servant attitude. To my chagrin, all I could think about was the fact that I had not made my bed that morning. When I returned to the home, my bed was still unmade. I quickly corrected my error. The fact that the woman would have undoubtedly changed the linens mattered not. I had to live with myself to practice what I preached.
Mar 17, 2013
The first century culture differed greatly from our modern culture. Rather than emphasizing the individual, first century culture highlighted the group. An individual’s identity derived from the group to which the individual belonged—the family, community (birthplace), and networks (trade guild) to which one belonged. The definition of success became honor—the highest good. Yet, only the worthy received honor. An individual’s role was to promote the honor of the group.
Family mission trip a ‘last chance’ gift for graduating college student
LIVE OAK (FBW)—As graduation approached for Anda Scott at Baptist College of Florida last December her family began asking what she wanted for graduation. Her answer Read More Dominican government opens doors for expanded outreach to children
LAKELAND (FBCH)—The trustees and leadership of the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes prayed in recent years for opportunities to expand the reach of their ministry to children in the most unlikely of Read More FBCH hosts annual CEO Children’s Council meeting
LAKELAND (FBCH)—Chief executive officers from across the country met at Florida Baptist Children’s Homes recently to focus their expertise on benefitting children connected with the ministry. Read More From Madagascar to Central Asia, Florida Baptist collegians serve globally
JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—This summer 110 Florida Baptist college students will spend their vacations serving in ways to advance God’s Kingdom when they travel to 17 countries and throughout the state of Read More Florida Focus
A one-time announcement of special events is a free service provided by the Witness to Florida Baptist churches. Please send materials at least three weeks before the date of the event, to Florida Read More Prayers flow for Jacksonville pastor’s son
JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—After five-year-old Ben Bowersox severed four fingers and broke bones in both arms and hands May 7 in an accident at a Jacksonville airport, prayers began to pour in from around Read More Pastorate can be ‘lonely place’ new Suwannee DOM says
SUWANNEE (FBW)—Suwannee Baptist Association, with offices in Live Oak, has called Don Walker as director of missions. “This is a role I have observed for many years. It will be exciting Read More Three Florida Baptist communicators recognized with awards at annual meeting
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (FBC)—Three Florida Baptist communicators were honored when communications professionals from across the Southern Baptist Convention gathered in Little Rock April 17-20 for the Read More
Remembering forgotten casualties of war
FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. (BP)—Heather Junkin was putting 9-month-old Adelynn to bed when the sound rang out, perhaps a Vodka bottle that had crashed to the floor. The young military wife Read More MEMORIAL DAY: 'God's angel' in WWII China
SAN ANGELO, Texas (BP) -- World War II was raging in Europe and all over the Orient. In March 1944, my turn came to enter training for military service. Read More Moore, Ezell ‘concerned’ about religious freedom in military
ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)—Two Southern Baptist leaders have issued a statement voicing concern about religious freedom within the U.S. military but also cautioning Christians to refrain from jumping to Read More Admiral vows to continue sharing faith
WASHINGTON (BP)—Living one’s faith in the U.S. military took center stage at the 62nd observance of the National Day of Prayer in Washington as lawmakers and faith leaders gathered on Capitol Hill. Read More Tyndale wins against abortion mandate
WASHINGTON (BP)—A leading Bible publisher won another court victory against the Obama administration’s abortion/contraceptive mandate Friday (May 3), thanks in part to the administration’s own Read More Immigration bill will falter if same-sex amendments are added, ERLC warns
WASHINGTON (BP)—Amending a long-awaited immigration reform bill in the U.S. Senate to include same-sex partners would force it to oppose the legislation and would deal a death blow to passage, the Read More Despite risks, entrepreneur sets sights on Asia
HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (BP)—“No foreigners beyond this point,” the sign reads in a remote area of Central Asia. Paul Hart* notices it just as the motorcycle he is riding blows Read More USCIRF: Religious liberty ‘increasingly dire’
WASHINGTON (BP)—Religious liberty continues to suffer globally at the hands of extremists and totalitarian governments, according to a new report by a congressionally approved watchdog. Read More
Missionary teacher ‘travels light’ from Africa to High Springs
HIGH SPRINGS (FBW)—In Kenya for 28 years Jenny Musen learned to be flexible and willing to move about at the Baptist High School in Mombasa and as a volunteer coordinator in Nairobi. The Read More Preschool minister & family exchange Jacksonville for Gonubie, South Africa
SOUTH AFRICA (FBW)—Beth Chin, a member of Chets Creek Baptist Church in Jackson­ville, recently moved to South Africa with her family to work with the children of the Mzamomhle Township at Living Read More King’s Faith in theaters May 10
JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Kings Faith is an emotional, provocative movie eaturing a foster kid who grew up on the wrong side of the law. Read More Bay City couple leads ‘perspective-changing’ strategy
SAN FRANCISCO (NAMB)—There are more affluent places in the United States than San Francisco, but not many. Living in that environment can numb people to need. Ben Pilgreen Read More South African entrepreneurs overstay honeymoon in Canada
VANCOUVER (NAMB)—Victor and Candice Thomas landed in Vancouver, British Columbia, promising they’d never stay—that was five years ago. They arrived in 2007, so Victor could start a four-month stint Read More ‘The Bible’ opens with Noah’s Ark & culminates with Easter Sunday resurrection
JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Tossed about in ferocious, frothing seas amidst driving rain, Noah’s Ark was the focal point in the creation opener of the epic new miniseries “The Bible,” Read More AAEO PRAYER GUIDE
Week of Prayer for North American Missions and the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering 2013 Goal: $70,000... Read More Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the staff of Florida Baptist Witness
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The Cooperative Program Factor: Mandate, Missions, Ministries
Following the Great Commission Mandate, the Florida Baptist Convention has set as its priorities to reach people for Jesus Christ, start new churches and strengthen existing churches. The summary of Read More
Proverbs 11:12-14; 17:17; 18:24; 27:5-6, 9-10, 17; 28:23; 29:10: May 26—Giving others what they need
We’ve heard our share of glib advice such as, instead of a hand out the other person really needs a helping hand. Instead of giving the needy a fish, teach them how to fish. Implied in this is the Read More Titus 3: May 26—Behave christian! Christian living before outsiders
Critics of the church abound in the twenty-first century. While much of the criticism is unfounded, Christians unfortunately give unbelievers a rationale or basis of criticism. Perhaps the number Read More Proverbs 6:6-11, 16-19, 23-27: May 19—Becoming a person others need
I don’t know that I have ever consciously taken a course of action on the theory that I might be needed along the way. But I can vouch for the fact that God took care of my needs in a special set of Read More Titus 2:1-15: May 19—A beautiful Gospel life
A grace lifestyle that matches the Gospel message serves as the keynote of this chapter. The apostle dared diverse members of the church to live in such a manner that unbelievers cannot attack the Read More Proverbs 31:10-12, 15-20, 25-31: May 12—Building the home I need
Vital to how we speak is what we speak, the choice of words. The time was when we made a radical destination between house and home. The house was the physical building while home referred to the Read More TItus 1: May 12—Qualified spiritual leaders
Titus served as one of Paul’s most trusted ministry associates. Paul called Titus “my true child”—a term designating Titus as his convert (Titus 1:4). Titus was Greek and became a test case for the Read More Proverbs 3:5-8, 13-18, 31-35: May 5—Getting my most important relationship right
A prominent Baptist leader is quoted as having said he read the Book of Psalms to help correct his relationship with God and the Book of Proverbs in learning how to get along with others. Perhaps an Read More 2 Timothy 4: May 5—How to end life well
The last words of an individual prior to death may be significant. In the last letter Paul wrote prior to his death, Paul expressed his last words to his faithful assistant Timothy. Paul’s last Read More
Iglesia multilingüe lleva a las familias a Cristo
KENDALL (BP)—Después de ver los anuncios de la iglesia por los caminos del suroeste de Miami cerca de su casa, Sergio Barrero, de 23 años, y su familia comenzaron a visitar Turning Point Church en Read More ‘EtniCiudad’: Conferencia en Ingles/Español explora alcanzando al perdido en centros urbanos
HIALEAH (FBC)—Una conferencia nacional diseñada para explorar la urbanización del mundo y como captar los centros urbanos inalcanzados será celebrada en español y traducida al ingles en el Centro de Read More Lideres misioneros ven los bautistas perseverantes y vibrantes
LA HABANA, CUBA (FBC)—Caminando por los pasillos del seminario de la Convención Bautista de Cuba Occidental (CBCO), Kevin Ezell oía como los misioneros domésticos Herbert Caudill y David Fite fueron Read More ‘Visionario’ pastor bautista hispano de Florida muere
HIALEAH GARDENS, Fla. (FBW)--Jorge Comesañas, 71 años, líder de la obra hispana en Florida, y pastor de First Baptist Church Hialeah Gardens, murió el 27 de octubre. Él fue diagnosticado con un Read More Punto de vista: la esclavitud, el aborto y el entumecimiento de una nación
NASHVILLE (BP)-Mis parientes me han dicho que la familia de Rainer era una familia esclavista de entrar en la Guerra Civil. No tengo ninguna razón para dudar la cruda realidad, aunque no lo he Read More Editorial: Un debate digno de tener, una causa digna de apoyo
Un debate se está librando en el Congreso sobre el papel del gobierno federal en la financiación de Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA). Es un debate que debe tenerse en cuenta, cuyo Read More
Pat Summerall remembered for his Christian faith
DALLAS (BP)—Pat Summerall stood in the front row at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, on Easter Sunday, next to his wife Cheri, as the congregation sang “The Old Rugged Cross. Read More Past FBSC president Keith Thomas dies at 57
THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (FBC)--Keith Thomas, past president of the Florida Baptist State Convention 1996-1997, died Saturday April 6 in The Woodlands, Texas, from pancreatic Read More Retired IMB missionary to Lebanon, Vivian Trimble, dies
MILTON (FBW)—Vivian Paulk Trimble, 87, retired IMB missionary to the Middle East, died Dec. 20 in Milton. She and her husband James W. (Bill) Trimble served more than 30 Read More Jackie Register, 63, dies
Jackie Register of Graceville, former pastor of First Baptist Church in Malone, died Nov. 12. He was 63. Read More Fred Boehmer, pastor emeritus FBC Brandon, dies Oct. 30
BRANDON (FBW)—Fred H. Boehmer, 82, pastor emeritus of First Baptist Church in Brandon, died Oct. 30 in Virginia. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church 1976-1995, and had previously served Read More Cheryl Babington dies at 64
COCOA BEACH (FBW)—Cheryl S. Babington, wife of Pastor Ken Babington of First Baptist Church in Cocoa Beach, died Oct. 24. She was 64. Read More Roy Fish honored by family, students, friends at memorial service
FORT WORTH, Texas (SWBTS)—Faculty, former students, denominational leaders, and pastors from across the country joined with the family of Roy Fish to celebrate the life of the distinguished Read More Obituary: Wayne Upton, 82
Wayne Upton, 82, retired pastor and seminary professor, died Aug. 14 in Jacksonville. He served as pastor of Jacksonville Heights Baptist Church 28 years and was professor of missiology at Luther Read More