God Provides for Sudanese Youth Conference

During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. - Acts 16:9-10

Abraham Deng is the pastor of the Sudanese Ministry Bible Church which shares a building with Primera Iglesia Bautista in South Nashville. Abraham approached me this spring with a vision to host a Sudanese Youth Conference this summer.  It had never been done before.  He had the vision but needed the logistics and resources to see it through.

Abraham and I set up the conference at Linden Valley Baptist Conference Center in Middle Tennessee, and we were able to secure help with funding though the Tennessee Baptist Foundation. We were even able to line up a youth speaker for the weekend. Abraham had dreams of 100-150 Sudanese youth from around the states attending the conference. Like most American youth, they have the same struggles of living out their faith in a culture overwhelmed with addiction issues of sex, drugs, and social media. On top of that, these Sudanese youth are dealing with the third-cultural issues of living as an ethnic minority within the larger American culture.

Third-culture children are those born into one language and culture but raised in another. They often end up learning two languages. They can make friends quite easily but have trouble developing deep long-term relationships. These are common issues for refugee and immigrant children as well as children of our military and missionaries.

Things looked bleak when the speaker that we had lined up backed out the week before the conference. The numbers that we had hoped for were only going to be about half of what we expected. Abraham did not despair. The vision remained the same. Another speaker stepped up and drove from Florida. Over fifty youth did attend and had an amazing time. A group from Missouri drove down and joined the Sudanese from Tennessee, Florida, and Georgia. Lives were changed and several youths committed to a call to Christian ministry.

God gives us visions, but setbacks and problems cause us to doubt those visions. Only faith in the One that gave us the vision helps to see it through to the end. Please continue to pray for Abraham, the Sudanese Church, and the youth that came to the conference. 

Brett Boesch, International Ministry Strategist

Church Spotlight: Covenant Baptist Church, Brentwood

This year, Covenant Baptist in Brentwood wanted to invite its community to Easter service. Using the two-mile demographic radius information provided by the Nashville Baptist Association, the congregation was able to write cards to 1,500 homes. Each invitation was hand-addressed to the resident of the home, and the card on the inside was handwritten and signed by the church member who wrote it. The church provided 50 packets, including cards, envelopes, instructions and a sample of what to say in the card, for people to use in writing and addressing the cards. The congregation faithfully prayed for the people who would receive the invitations. In anticipation of a large Easter celebration, Covenant members were encouraged to park in the Aldi parking lot across the street. (The store was closed on Easter.)

Covenant member Lorene Delius wrote and addressed cards to mail to homes in the community.

Thanks to the Lord, families who received handwritten invitations did indeed attend Covenant on Easter Sunday! Pastor Whit feels that others who received invitations but did not attend on Easter will remember the church that invited them with handwritten notes and will visit in the near future.

Covenant is indeed thankful for the NBA's assistance in reaching their community with the gospel.

This Church Spotlight originally appeared in the July 2022 edition of the Baptist Beacon. If you would like to see your church featred, call the NBA office or email jhoward@nashvillebaptists.com.

Arise and Build

Arise and Build

All across our Association, there are church planters and declining churches who need assistance and support. In fact, there are some that need adopting and fostering. I believe we can get a lot more done together when trainings and resources come together. It’s going to take churches working together to rebuild, resource, and restore churches and church planters.

I am reminded of Nehemiah. God gave him a burden and a passion to go back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls of the city. Nehemiah led a small community of Israelites, spiritually and physically in the midst of Jerusalem being destroyed because of their faithlessness toward God. Nehemiah’s passion ignited the people to “arise and build.” In Nehemiah chapter 2 verses 17-18, we see him leading the charge to the people to rebuild. Nehemiah went on a vision tour with the people to see the destruction for himself.

Nehemiah 2:17-18 HCSB
17 So I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins and its gates have been burned down. Come, let’s rebuild Jerusalem’s wall, so that we will no longer be a disgrace.” 18 I told them how the gracious hand of my God had been on me, and what the king had said to me. They said, “Let’s start rebuilding,” and they were encouraged[a] to do this good work.

Today we are seeing a significant decline in the number of functioning churches and new churches being established.  There is a call from God for churches to partner and arise and build his kingdom agenda of discipleship on the earth. This can be done by fostering, adopting and partnering with churches that are declining and supporting church planters who want to plant healthy churches. Now is the time for healthy churches to reenergize the church planting movement by communicating, resourcing and supporting.

Let us arise, build and set our hands and resources to the good works of planting and building churches. I believe it’s time to leverage a comeback of healthy churches! Churches Planting Churches is the succession plan to planting and building healthy churches.

Do you and your church have a heart for missions?

Do you and your church desire to assist a new or struggling church planter in turning their vision into a reality?

Please pray and consider joining the Nashville Baptist Association pool of partnering churches to “arise and build” healthy churches throughout Middle Tennessee. Nehemiah reminds us that God is involved in what we are doing.

To discuss how your church can help build up declining churches and church planters, contact Dwayne Lewis at dlewis@nashvillebaptists.com.

Dwayne Lewis
Church Planting Strategist

Ethnic Leadership Training

Koinenia is a Greek term that occurs many times in the New Testament and is usually rendered as fellowship or partnership.  Paul writing to the church at Philippi begins the letter with this thanksgiving:  

I thank my God every time I remember you.  In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-6)

This is a major theme of the book and especially chapter 4.  For Paul this “partnership in the gospel” was more than just relaying a message. This Christian form of partnership incudes sharing of gifts, but also needs and concerns, of meeting material needs, but also sharing hurts and wounds.  This giving and receiving was an essential component between pastors and churches and between churches and other churches.

Last month the Nashville Baptist Association hosted a small group of ethnic church pastors and laymen for leadership training.  This was the first event of its kind in more than five years.  Fady Al-Hagal, who leads the International Leadership Coalition and is the Multiplication Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church led three sessions on leadership. These included effective habits of a leader, making spirit led decisions and endurance in the ministry.  I also led a session on humility in leadership and the roles of New Testament leadership.  All were well received, and we had good questions and discussion at the table.

We hope to have more training events this year and in the future.  There is a need for good church training for the ethnic churches of Nashville.  Several of the pastors have asked for youth and children’s ministry training for their churches. There are also needs for church operations training, which would include legal and tax help, retirement planning and the like.

While these ethnic churches of Nashville need training and fellowship, many of them have much to offer in terms of teaching and training the American church.  How can we learn from them in terms of persecution, refugee ministries, world religions, evangelism, and discipleship among their people groups?  When we serve these churches, we serve Christ.  When we love these churches, we love the bride of Christ.  A good question is how we can train these ethnic churches in the spirit of service.  A better question is what can they teach us?

Update on pastor Oscar Aguilar:  The association under the leadership of “Ramp Master” Paul Vawter was able to build a wheelchair accessible ramp for pastor Oscar last month.  Oscar, Miriam, and John were so thankful to the association for this gift.  A few days later I received a picture of Oscar taking his first few steps since the stroke.        Praise God.

Blessings,
Brett Boesch
International Ministry Strategist
bboesch@nashvillebaptists.com

Church Spotlight: Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church

Pastor Thomas E. Hunter, Sr.

The beginning of a New Church:   Pastor Brooks of St. James Missionary Baptist Church had all the members of the New Church to sign their names as a sign of their intent to be members.  This new Church would be named Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church.  Reverend Thomas E. Hunter, Sr. was called as pastor. 

2 Corinthians 8:3-5 is the churches theme - an Unusual Church
3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability.  Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in their service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they exceeded our expectations:  they gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.

The church was held in an old warehouse for the first 2 years and then came to be in the Andrew Jackson Boys & Girls Club at 916 16th Ave. North, Nashville TN  37208.  Where they are today.

Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church is what Pastor Hunter calls “A Community Church.”  Their goal is to immerse the church into the community.  By walking alongside the people in the community.

During the week the Boys & Girls club reaches approximately 220 children, Nehemiah MBC sponsors 8-10 youth to attend. 

On Friday - Sunday the church serves the community through providing food to around 375 families. Along with the feeding, they offer education and mentoring.

Being a community based church, Nehemiah MBC, has several programs geared to the community.  Circle of Hope (Narcotics Anonymous), Humble Hands Nashville (Women’s Transitional Home). 

They have partnered with Hermitage Hills church to begin a Bible Study in the jail.

Recently, Nehemiah MBC was able to receive a gift of a portable stage from Tusculum Hills BC which has been a tremendous benefit for them.  Partnering with other churches so they can reach their community is a wonderful way to show Kingdom work.  

Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church
Love Exemplified Through Action.
Facebook: @Nehemiahmbc.TN
Website: Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church   https://nm-s.faithlifesites.com

This Church Spotlight was originally published in the June 2022 edition of the Baptist Beacon. If you would like for your church to be featured, please call the NBA offices at (615) 259-3034 or email JoAnn Howard.

Ethnic Ministry Update

Bob Cook, pastor of the Church at Grace Park

Bob Cook is the senior pastor at the Church of Grace Park in Whitehouse, TN. They have been a member of the association for many years.  Last December their church helped host our Christmas banquet for ethnic pastors. It is something they have done for many years, and after a few years hiatus they were eager to restart this ministry.

Frank Urroz is the pastor of Hispana-Gallatin, a Spanish-speaking fellowship, which meets at the First Baptist Church of Gallatin. Frank was at our Christmas Party. I wanted these two pastors to get together for mutual encouragement and future partnerships, so we met one day for lunch at a local cantina. Over tacos and fajitas we listened to each other’s stories. Pastor Frank works full time construction at different sites in downtown Nashville. Like most of our ethnic pastors he is bi-vocational, working a full-time job to support his family while preparing for Sunday sermons at night.

Frank Urroz, pastor of Hispana-Gallatin

Almost flippantly, I tossed out an idea to my brothers about the possibility of Grace Park hosting a Spanish speaking Sunday once a year, where Frank could share his testimony and could lead in Spanish worship. Bob could perhaps visit Frank’s church once a year and preach and maybe the partnership could grow from there. But as I talked, Bob’s countenance changed. His compassion for Frank as a fellow pastor who was also working bi-vocationally overwhelmed him. After a few more questions, Bob offered Frank a part-time job at Grace Park so he wouldn’t have to travel so far to Nashville every day and the opportunity to start a bible study for Spanish speakers in Goodlettsville.   

Praise God -- this is happening. May our Father raise up many more “Bobs” for every “Frank.”

Update on pastor Oscar Aguilar: Oscar has been home for a couple of weeks now. His color and mobility have greatly improved.  Oscar's wife, Miriam, and his son, John, are an ever-present help. He still needs help moving from bed to chair, bathing, etc. Like most strong-willed pastors, he is frustrated by his reliance on others. John hopes to have a ramp built soon so Oscar can sit outside in the sunlight. Thanks for your continued prayers.

If your church would like to partner with an Ethnic Congregation, please call me at the NBA Office.  615-259-3034

Blessings,
Brett Boesch
International Ministry Strategist
bboesch@nashvillebaptists.com

Better Love Marriage Retreat

Eight couples attended the NBA Minsters and Wives Retreat at Whitestone Inn this year.

Becky and I led couples through the Better Love Assessment created by Les and Leslie Parrott. The couples had nothing but positive and enthusiastic responses to the individualized couples report generated by the assessment as well as the follow up sessions. We heard over and over again from several couples, “Oh my, this assessment gets us and is very impactful for our marriage.”

Becky and I completed the assessment and sessions before the event and had the same reaction as the couples. We want other couples to experience what the couples who attended The NBA Ministers and Wives retreat experienced. We are eager to provide Three Options to you for couples in your church or for ministers and their wives.

Option 1
Introduction to the resource and training in how to lead and utilize the assessment

Option 2
Lead a couples retreat for couples in your church

Option 3
Lead a 5-week small group session for couples in your church

Cost: $35 for each couple to complete the assessment
Leadership travel and expenses

Contact us today to take advantage of these Options:
615-419-1944 or rebekahsjar@gmail.com

Pictured:
1. Group picture
2-3. Game time
4. Couples Praying together
5-6. Dinning at Whitestone

Rusty Sumrall
Executive Director

Church Spotlight: First Baptist Church Fairview

First Baptist Church, Fairview is a multigeneration church on the western edge of Williamson County. In September of 1954, Old New Hope Baptist Church sponsored a tent revival at the home of Carl and Dorothy Handley. Ten people accepted Christ as a result of that effort. Edgefield Baptist Church and later Park Avenue Baptist Church sponsored Fair Hills Baptist Mission. In 1956 Mr. and Mrs. Frank Denny gave the property on Overbey Road where the church is now located and services were held in a new building on the property in September of that year.

On September 19, 1965, First Baptist Church of Fairview was constituted as a church with fifty-two charter members and became a part of the Nashville Baptist Association. Alton Wilson, a Belmont student, was called as pastor in October.. The church grew and an addition to the building was completed in 1968.

Larry Johnson became the church’s first full time pastor in 1969. The interior of the first building was remodeled in 1970-71. The parsonage was built in 1973 and in 1976-77 an educational wing was added. WMU was established in the 70s. and were very instrumental in bringing mission awareness to the church. Milton Knox was called as pastor in June of 1979. During his ministry the church participated in several mission trips sponsored by Tennessee Baptists. Charles Adlay served as part time minister of education in the 80s and the Sunday School grew and new classes formed. With the growth came the need for a larger worship space. The present sanctuary was completed in 1982 and the church purchased 8 acres across the street from the church which has provided additional parking. 

Jim Patton came as pastor in April of 1986. During his tenure, the church added another staff position - part-time youth minister in 1992. The youth ministry began to flourish and has remained strong.

Small groups

Dr. Bill Sherman was called to First Baptist in 2001 and pastored until he retired in September of 2020. The membership grew and many improvements and additions to the facilities were completed while he served. A new education space was completed in 2004 and the church purchased an additional 5 acres and a house across the street from the church in 2016. First Baptist is blessed with so many capable and willing volunteers. This was very evident in the construction of the education space and again when the sanctuary was renovated and an additional parking lot was added in 2017-2018.

When the pandemic hit is 2020, volunteers again stepped in with media production. The team began recording services, missing only one week, and the worship service was live streamed less than three months later. The media ministry has continued to develop and grow and is a great asset as the church begins new ministries.

 First Baptist Church has always been very community oriented. In 2008 volunteers constructed a house for a lady who lost her home in a tornado. Many volunteers also participate with Habitat for Humanity and with local nonprofit organizations. 

Fairview is a growing area attracting young families. There are many opportunities for growth. The Weekday Preschool which began in 1996 always a waiting list! FBC Upward Flag football league which began in 2007 under the leadership of John Bledsoe is also a vital ministry to children and their parents.

Pastor Dewayne Goodgine

First Baptist has experienced a lot of change in the past two years. As with all churches, the pandemic created numerous challenges. The church also had several staff changes in 2021. John Harland began serving as full time youth minister in January, Dr. DeWayne Goodgine was called as pastor in June, and Haley Johnson began serving as Worship Leader in August. There is a great spirit at First Baptist - new members are joining, Worship and Sunday School attendance are steadily increasing and there is an excitement in the church body. Looking to the future, FBC is focused on what has made the church strong over the years while implementing new ideas such as community groups and ministry teams.

 This Church Spotlight was originally published in the March 2022 edition of the Baptist Beacon. If you would like for your church to be featured, please call the NBA offices at (615) 259-3034 or email JoAnn Howard.

2022 Associational Bible Drill

I have had the privilege for 22 years to be a part of Bible Drill either while my children were participating or through organizing the drills for the Nashville Baptist Association.

My heart swells every time I see children, youth and high school drillers step up and: 

· Present their Bibles– showing their respect for God’s Holy Word

· Find the information in the Word of God—within 10 seconds for the children and 8 seconds for youth & high school!

· Beam with joy as they accomplish their feat.  Or even sigh with relief that it is over and they have finished.

All of this putting the word of God into their hearts.  This is something that they will keep even into their adulthood:

* “Participating in Bible drill gave me the confidence to pick my Bible up and study further. The book (Bible) that looked so big to me as a child seemed less intimidating. Even today Bible drill helps me remember the books of the Bible and where they are located.”  Laura Price

* “Scripture comes to mind and I realize they were the scriptures I memorized in Bible Drill.”  Phillip Howard

* “I remember the rhymes, songs and tricks that helped me learn the verses.  “Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you shall find. Knock and the door will be opened to you.  Luke 11:9 (It rhymes!)  Also, who remembers the trick– Go Eat Pop Corn and then your thirsty so you need 5 cups of “T”.”  Dana Corbitt

I just want to Thank the Nashville Baptist Association for allowing me to be a part of this amazing ministry.  

JoAnn Howard
Ministry Assistant to the Strategists

2022 Bible Dillers:

Children:

Brentwood Baptist
Arye Parker
Emmy Maccabee
Abbey Kate Moss
Vivian Smith
Huxton Suggs
Kylie Taylor
Bryn Thompson

Parkway Baptist
Channing Morrow
Sally Elias
Murphey Couts
Axel Elias
Carter Sanders
Andrew Elias
Essa Al-Nimri
Mariana Castleberry

 Tulip Grove Baptist
Wren Sutherland
Ana Bentschneider
Avery Anderson
Colton Fisher
Ella Adcox
Emily Boswell
Cora Jones
Molly Hacker
Reece Anderson
Skyler Fisher

 Nashville First Baptist
Curtis Pope
Nevaeh Greer
Charli Nabakowski
Tatum Rodriquez

 Youth:

Tulip Grove Baptist
Ethan Bentschneider
Lauren Briggs

 Parkway Baptist Church
Andrew Castleberry
Christian Espino

 High School:

Parkway Baptist
Jay Schremmer