Suicide, Christians and the Church: A Reflection
By Dave Miller I can remember driving down the highway in Virginia in a state of depression. I’ve slipped into depression – probably a milder form than many have experienced – two or three times in my life. One was during my first pastorate, back in the late 80s....
Should Churches and State Conventions Tithe?
By Tim Lubinus I like the idea of the tithe. Giving ten percent of one’s income to a local church is a good starting point for mature believers. Giving by percentage allows for people with extensive resources to give more and for those with limited resources to give...
How to (and how NOT to) Minister to Families Battling Cancer
By Todd Benkert Reflecting on our past and present experience with cancer, we have been blessed to have family, friends and a church family who have been wonderfully supportive. Quite often, people want to know how they can help and encourage someone going through the...
One in the Crowd
By Jeff K. Walters And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you!” Luke 8:45 This verse comes from the time in Jesus’ ministry when he was surrounded by crowds, and a very...
‘Jesus clinic’ offers healing for body and soul
By Harper McKay A choir of roosters welcomes the rising sun as patients roll up their mosquito nets and blankets to get ready for their follow-up appointments. Slowly, new patients trickle in, and doctors, nurses and other staff finish their breakfasts of savory...
Discovering Southern Baptists through an array of resources
NASHVILLE (BP) -- Southern Baptists seem to show up everywhere when people are searching for answers amid times of upheaval and emptiness.Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers clad in yellow shirts and hats are quickly amid the debris and anguish from hurricanes...
Fighting the real enemy
By Allen Raynor ROGERS, Texas (BP) -- Much of the language in the New Testament is of a militant nature. Believers are often referenced as soldiers. Warfare is a common theme and words like battle, fight and defeat are used regularly. The real enemy is Satan and this...
Gearing Up for Growth
By Ben Simpson Are you gearing up for growth? Brothers and sisters, we are heading into the fall of the year, which is a prime time for church growth. I’m so excited to see what God is going to do! Perhaps you’ve not thought about it in this way, but there are at...
Be Undaunted : Overcoming Sexual Abuse
by Polly House Forgiveness is the only cure for a sexual abuse victim. If you were sexually abused as a child, you might think you will never get past it. But, once you are able to forgive your abuser, you will find freedom from it. Josh McDowell endured this...
Annual Meeting Resolutions Due September 5, 2014
Resolutions serve two primary functions in the life of the Baptist Convention of Iowa. They express appreciation and they extend special recognition for special achievements. Resolutions adopted by the executive board or by the messengers in session are not binding...
