tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83547717702162139122024-03-04T22:08:02.094-08:00Central Bible ChapelActs 2:42, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-75604158722862559392012-12-18T19:22:00.003-08:002012-12-18T19:28:23.601-08:00A Worthwhile Video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZ9LhxI4ZvfJJr3OzvgNLoCKn2qRvRu7TJf0j2suAxxcMsPumuoMf7pKNVQA3x_qNkvzlkdS3a7NEubkzLTdI5ZZADMnrIYmCdVf1ZEElTxrR5kUQ1kbyGTeWDoPSTN3TM4DAl6IQ31o/s1600/MI0002064491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZ9LhxI4ZvfJJr3OzvgNLoCKn2qRvRu7TJf0j2suAxxcMsPumuoMf7pKNVQA3x_qNkvzlkdS3a7NEubkzLTdI5ZZADMnrIYmCdVf1ZEElTxrR5kUQ1kbyGTeWDoPSTN3TM4DAl6IQ31o/s1600/MI0002064491.jpg" /></a></div>
A little video entitled, "The Uniqueness of Christianity" - well worth the few minutes it takes to watch. Check it out here - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6IfVnkbmKs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6IfVnkbmKs</a>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-78020993440153105042012-02-04T17:47:00.000-08:002012-02-04T17:56:44.814-08:00The Christian Race<em>I Corinthians 9: 24 “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly;”<br /></em><br />It is so easy to feel like you are running in circles. Believe me. I know. Because some days, that's exactly what I do. From running carpool to running errands, meals, dishes, laundry, etc., the days just slip by. How many times have you sat down at the end of the day and thought, “where did the day go?” As Christians, we have a responsibility not to just fill our days with temporal things, but to see to it that we are spending our lives in the service of Christ. In the book of 1 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul encourages the Christians to run with a purpose, to work for an outcome. In our day to day lives, there is so much to accomplish, yet how much of it matters in<br />light of eternity? The questions everyone must ask are, “What have I done with Jesus?” and “What am I doing for Jesus?” You know the old question, “what on earth are you doing for heaven’s sake?” Everybody out there is running in some direction, running in multiple directions, changing directions, but what we are supposed to do is run as if we were competing for a prize - a prize that we so desperately want to win. We need to exercise not just our bodies, but our self control - our mental control - our time control - so that we may obtain our prize when the race is over. If you don’t know Jesus, you must find Him, or else you will continue to run away from heaven. To come to know Him, read His book (the Holy Bible!). If you know Jesus, what are you doing for Him? When your race is over, do you know what is across the finish line? Will a crown of glory await you? What are you running toward today?<br /> - L. BonnerCentral Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-54521496500923345862011-08-30T19:55:00.000-07:002011-08-30T20:02:41.996-07:00"He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second."<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxS82QpuWCGz07v4165Qyh2mWq_p2rbUI19TBTw5X2v4NsrtpyIgR6x_owdg46XsTZGtUG_N0SwedvIhDlbGXbbwcQ4PBlOXdyNQZiPZPpOUg0izv0M79TdNLJXza8OyT4u4-CqzgYhU/s1600/101_3286.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxS82QpuWCGz07v4165Qyh2mWq_p2rbUI19TBTw5X2v4NsrtpyIgR6x_owdg46XsTZGtUG_N0SwedvIhDlbGXbbwcQ4PBlOXdyNQZiPZPpOUg0izv0M79TdNLJXza8OyT4u4-CqzgYhU/s320/101_3286.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646848839607976146" /></a>The emblems in the foreground are juxtaposed in their simplicity with the very complex tabernacle and all its trappings. "Only bread and only wine..." as the hymn goes, but what deep, rich meanings they have to the believer. Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-55822951206010082442011-07-07T12:54:00.000-07:002011-07-07T13:06:17.111-07:00"Welcome to Our Bible School..."<div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7LbLsDCNK-VgIofx2v4jKXtB9ycUP-WNBf_jvDaoj0fUzvxEeZs7H0x60tBBrSmuRSwisViWDDmwon-ZZREcDtMOaGqB8A4vvnqHz4cUQi6wsCArWf3L8-FUV6CF1C-5RBsB9Xz9MAM/s1600/101_3236a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626702838413097234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7LbLsDCNK-VgIofx2v4jKXtB9ycUP-WNBf_jvDaoj0fUzvxEeZs7H0x60tBBrSmuRSwisViWDDmwon-ZZREcDtMOaGqB8A4vvnqHz4cUQi6wsCArWf3L8-FUV6CF1C-5RBsB9Xz9MAM/s320/101_3236a.jpg" /></a>"...We're So Glad You're Here!" Vacation Bible School is HERE at Central Bible Chapel, starting July 11 through July 15. Child Evangelism Fellowship will be working with us to reach our neighbors with the Good News of the Gospel. Prayer for all involved is much appreciated!</div></div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-38598717514274545672011-06-18T09:43:00.001-07:002011-06-18T09:56:59.749-07:00Buried with HIM in Baptism...<div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcJWGUVXfqvKNnwGEyFCzZVG-VhsFUoqM-RMo6BSb5hKTa_Y5aqbMtdfWps0w6Zz5h3BNyVws7U3dTdq5QNNfAtbTPfDkkj8XEzMwhlV3C7CucaVjAbrf3yYwJloVYXbHAAEy-Ff7iMs/s1600/P1030858.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619603367385636162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcJWGUVXfqvKNnwGEyFCzZVG-VhsFUoqM-RMo6BSb5hKTa_Y5aqbMtdfWps0w6Zz5h3BNyVws7U3dTdq5QNNfAtbTPfDkkj8XEzMwhlV3C7CucaVjAbrf3yYwJloVYXbHAAEy-Ff7iMs/s320/P1030858.jpeg" /></a><strong>RAISED with HIM to newness of Life!</strong> <div>Baptism, for the believer in Christ, is the opportunity to demonstrate (1) obedience to the Lord's commands and (2) to publicly identify with the One he or she calls Savior. We had the privilege this month of watching one young man do this very thing. After giving a clear testimony of faith in the Lord Jesus, and when he first believed, Kit was immersed in the typical fashion, indicating burial and resurrection. </div><div>We long to see many more come to faith in the Lord Jesus, and walk in such obedience to Him!</div></div></div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-56168729243109419232011-04-30T21:21:00.000-07:002011-04-30T21:26:31.136-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VNuqX0Rk1AXoNwE53ww4Ew4dtmVSDzyFNiuC2OpAB8lG6VWxmtnvw3IkSejyL-F-vGD8Y1nrvS8MOK74VjMpcolitoev8-KghI3nx0h7OuyA0nk37wn0pivH-RLcHJWsoFciD2DNPEY/s1600/civil-war-uniforms.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601598936632536018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VNuqX0Rk1AXoNwE53ww4Ew4dtmVSDzyFNiuC2OpAB8lG6VWxmtnvw3IkSejyL-F-vGD8Y1nrvS8MOK74VjMpcolitoev8-KghI3nx0h7OuyA0nk37wn0pivH-RLcHJWsoFciD2DNPEY/s200/civil-war-uniforms.jpg" /></a>Down South there is much talk about the "Lost Cause"...for the uninitiated, this year marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the War Between the States (or"Civil War", or "War of the Northern Aggression", etc.). The "Lost Cause" refers to the the South's loss, and its inability to defend its "State's rights" position (I realize that many have varying views on this - this is not the point of my article, so please forgive me if I don't engage in an ideological debate at this point).<br />Every believer should have a "Lost Cause" - the fact of the "Lost" should "Cause" him/her to be burdened for souls, and seek to give out the Gospel! While many Americans are preoccupied with a Cause that will never be regained, Christians should be occupied with the Cause that will yield eternal benefits - and a message to be proclaimed that is promised to be as successful as HE determines it should be.<br />Are you seeking purpose in life, believer? Take up the "Lost Cause" - and tell others about the One who came to "seek and to save, that which is lost" (Luke 19:10).Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-90378440585994629252011-03-14T06:56:00.000-07:002011-03-14T07:04:57.714-07:00CBC Ladies' Conference<div align="left"><strong>You are Invited to Central Bible Chapel’s<br />4th Annual Ladies’ Bible Conference<br />April 2, 2011<br /><br /></strong>Central Bible Chapel is hosting our <strong>4th Annual Ladies’ Bible Conference</strong> on Saturday, April 2, 2011 and we would like YOU to be there! The ministry from the Word of God will cover the subject of <strong>"A Woman's Work”,</strong> a focus on the woman of <strong>Proverbs 31</strong>. We encourage everyone to take this opportunity for fellowship, ministy, and insight into how to turn all our work (at home, at work, at church) into a service for our great God.<br />Refreshments will be served at 9:30AM, and the conference will begin at 10:00AM. We encourage everyone to take this opportunity for fellowship and instruction from the Word of God.<br />Lunch will be provided. Nursery and Children’s activities will be provided, and accommodations will be available for any who wish to stay overnight (Friday and/or Saturday!). Please contact Kathy Leach 334-365-3374 or Laura Bonner 334-358-2753 to make arrangements for accommodations or for directions.<br />We look forward to having YOU as our guests on Saturday, April 2, 2011. Please mark your calendars!<br /><em>“Give her of the fruit of her labor, and let her works praise her in the city gates." Proverbs 31:31</em></div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-26995843409386896122011-02-08T14:05:00.000-08:002011-02-08T20:52:09.510-08:00Needham Bible Chapel Annual Conference<img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 129px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571446670205618338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcUXaKh5I-JBlwRoyoXEpubfQBlIFhnr6MyiLRTnuo8pjoM-wd0ptNIyOZ8YtpjrkkdbWpmVsyKHgDIxcIqEU7yG15QRzywzNT5NIGrS3V0KbXFJnrO4tiEF25H7e-xetNOJOg5gMxnE/s200/TheFormationoftheNewTestament-small.jpg" /> The annual conference at <strong>Needham Bible Chapel</strong> will be held <strong>February 19 & 20, 2011</strong> at the chapel. The speaker, Chuck Gianotti, is a brother very involved in producing helpful study and equiping materials for New Testament Churches, their leaders, and believers in general. Many of these materials are available at <a href="http://www.bible-equip.org/">http://www.bible-equip.org/</a>.<br />His subject matter for the conference will be on the formation of the New Testament itself. The conference is titled, "The New Testament: Credible or Not?" with Bro. Gianotti's following comments:<br />"Christianity rises or falls on the historical credibility of the Bible, particularly the New Testament documents. It has come under increasingly forceful attacks, with major news and magazine outlets routinely publishing scholarly refutation of the historical basis of the Bible and its stories. Some assert that the Bible as we have it today was the result of a political posturing in the early church that was rife with intrigue, conspiracy and secrecy. Others see it is a genuine effort by the 2M and 3M century church to read back into the very human stories of Christ a miraculous component that never existed in the first place. In such a post-modem (and some would say, post-Christian) culture, many are searching for answer to questions like these:<br />- Are the New Testament writings historically reliable?<br />- How do we know those book comprising the NT are authoritative? Who decided which documents to include?<br />- What about the apocryphal, deutero-canonical and Gnostic writings?<br />This presentation sunimarizes the large volume of available (yet very technical) information on the subject by providing a concise analysis of the facts to help you determine whether the New Testament as embraced by Christians for close to 2000 years is worthy of your confidence."<br /><br />Message 1; 10:30AM<br />Title: What's the Problem?<br />The New Testament did not just dropout of heaven as one complete whole. How then did it come to be? How do we go about determining its historical origins? What actual documents do we have to work with?<br />11:30AM - Q & A<br />11:45AM - Lunch<br /><br />Message 2; 1:00PM<br />Why Were Some Writings Included?<br />How did the early church come to identify the current 27 books or parts of the New Testament as being authentic and authoritative?<br />2:00PM - Q & A<br />2:15PM - Break<br /><br />Message 3; 2:30PM<br />Why Were Some Writings Excluded?<br />What about those other writings, like the Gnostic gospels, the apocrypha and other writings? Why were they excluded?<br />3:30PM - Q & A<br />3:45PM - Break<br /><br />Message 4; 4:00PM<br />Wht Does It All Mean?<br />So what? What difference does it really make? How is the New Testament unique among religious documents. What does it mean for us today?<br />5:00PM - Q & A<br />5:15PM - Supper<br /><div></div><br /><div>Lunch and Supper will be provided by the chapel. Please plan on attending - this will be a very informative and encouraging time. Needham Bible Chapel is located at 2497 New Hope Road in Needham, Alabama.</div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-15324360995898453082011-01-20T19:44:00.000-08:002011-01-20T20:17:46.863-08:00Who is my "brother"?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTibQ9oH_TtnGZbLaKo7fka0hbbeVuJ5LC29cviKcL1N6CCKW531MO1UPQB8_EDyWViS0XRADPnJySwZkeDsMdWbrCXadEEIdIFNndUt3A7Dzq6UsbZMJspWvypZAB1wZFfBgZBix3bg/s1600/imagesCAD1TEHR.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 144px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564487428417060770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTibQ9oH_TtnGZbLaKo7fka0hbbeVuJ5LC29cviKcL1N6CCKW531MO1UPQB8_EDyWViS0XRADPnJySwZkeDsMdWbrCXadEEIdIFNndUt3A7Dzq6UsbZMJspWvypZAB1wZFfBgZBix3bg/s200/imagesCAD1TEHR.jpg" /></a> Our new Governor (Alabama) has <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">inadvertently</span> created a small stir with a few off-the-cuff comments to a church group shortly after his inauguration earlier this week. As a Christian, he mentioned that all Christians were his brothers and sisters, and for those that were not, he invited them to become part of the family as well.<br /><div><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Alabama</span> newspapers didn't pick up on any problem with his remarks, but national media (looking for SOMETHING to write about in a slow news week) turned it to possibly mean that he would only be responsive to Christians while in office. He has spent the rest of the week <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">explaining</span> and apologizing. </div><br /><div>Are all "brothers and sisters"? As part of the human race, yes. But for believers in Christ, there is a familial link unknown to those who do not believe. The New Testament writers used such terms as fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters in writing to Christian believers, whether Jew or Gentile. And that non-believers are outside that family, we look no further than the Lord Jesus Himself, who referred to the faith-denying religious leaders as "children of the devil". They were part of a "family", but not His!</div><br /><div>The fact is, true Christians do acknowledge, despite secondary doctrinal or denominational differences, that they are "brothers and sisters". Furthermore, the invitation is open to all to come into a relationship with the Lord Jesus and to receive Him as one's own Lord and Savior. This personal act has the added benefit of becoming a member of His family, and every believer is a part of that.</div><br /><div>Governor Bentley seems to have smoothed all the ruffled feathers, for now. But he refuses to deny his own faith in the One who (exclusively) stated, <span style="color:#ff0000;">"I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">cometh</span> unto the Father, but by me."</span> (John 14:6).</div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-45878612883399942142011-01-05T10:38:00.000-08:002011-01-05T20:02:17.330-08:00Standing at the PortalStanding at the portal of the opening year,<br />Words of comfort meet us, hushing every fear;<br />Spoken through the silence by our Savior's voice,<br />Tender, strong and faithful, making us rejoice.<br /><br />"I, the Lord, am with thee, be thou not afraid;<br />I will help and strengthen - be thou not dismayed.<br />Yea, I will uphold thee with my own right hand;<br />Thou art called and chosen in my sight to stand."<br /><br />For the year before us - O what rich supplies!<br />For the poor and needy living streams shall rise;<br />For the sad and sinful shall His grace abound;<br />For the faint and feeble perfect strength be found.<br /><br />He will never fail us, He will not forsake;<br />His eternal covenant He will never break.<br />Resting on the promise, what have we to fear?<br />God is all sufficient for the coming year.<br /><br /><em>Onward then, and fear not, children of the day;</em><br /><em>For His Word shall never, never pass away.</em><br />- F. R. HavergalCentral Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-81718123021952523702010-11-26T05:30:00.000-08:002010-11-26T05:40:32.911-08:00The Giving of Thanks - 2010Thankfulness should be a marked characteristic of every believer. An understanding of our extreme soul danger before trusting Christ, and the salvation we have in Him, should always lead us again to thoughts of gratitude <strong>(2 Cor 9:15).</strong> This also leads us to recognize that all in this lfe we receive from His hand, so that <strong>"in every thing give thanks" (1 Thess 5:18).</strong> Since He uses many people in His work in our lives, gratitude should flow to them as well - in essence, when we thank them, we bless the God who provided for us through them.Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-52640935038653038412010-05-04T11:15:00.000-07:002010-05-04T11:23:52.435-07:00Worship, the Believer's Highest OccupationWe've just enjoyed a weekend (and week beginning) of meetings with ministry on "Worship". Worship is one of those things that has nearly as many definitions and practices as there are people, but, as far as Christians are concerned, it should be based on what the Scriptures tells us. While not exhaustive by any means, real helpful meat on the subject can be found here - <a href="http://centralbiblechapel.com/messages.html">http://centralbiblechapel.com/messages.html</a> - please look up the ministry by Bill Gustafson. Today there are two messages up, at least one more to come. These are available for a limited time, so please feel free to download or listen while they are here. Feedback is welcomed at <a href="mailto:info@centralbiblechapel.com">info@centralbiblechapel.com</a> .Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-66529942773420293012010-03-09T19:55:00.000-08:002010-03-09T19:58:28.368-08:00CBC Ladies' Conference<div align="center"><strong>You are Invited to</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Central Bible Chapel’s</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>3rd Annual Ladies’ Bible Conference</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>April 10, 2010</strong><br /></div>Central Bible Chapel is hosting our 3rd Annual Ladies’ Bible Conference on Saturday, April 10, 2010 and we would like YOU to be there! The ministry from the Word of God will cover the subject of the “Salt of the Earth”, and its importance and relevance to women today. Refreshments will be served at 9:30 a.m., and the conference will begin at 10:00 a.m. We encourage everyone to take this opportunity for fellowship and instruction from the Word of God.<br />Lunch will be provided. Nursery and Children’s activities will be provided, and accommodations will be available for any who wish to stay overnight (Friday and/or Saturday!). Please contact Kathy Leach 334-365-3374 or Laura Bonner 334-358-2753 to make arrangements for accommodations or for directions. <br />We look forward to having YOU as our guests on Saturday, April 10, 2010. Please mark your calendars!<br /><em>“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?”~ Matthew 5:13a ~</em>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-44489287002565045912010-03-09T09:45:00.000-08:002010-03-09T09:49:28.692-08:00Alabama Assembly Elder Emeritus"VLAHAKES, GEORGE, age 88, of Birmingham, passed away on March 4, 2010. He was an Elder at Hope Bible Chapel. He served in the U.S. Air Force in WWII and taught school in Birmingham for over 50 years. He is survived by his brother, Pete Vlahakes; and sister, Ethel Graham. Graveside service will be held Sunday, March 7, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Ridout's Roebuck Chapel."<br /><br />Brother George's life and testimony far outweighs this simple notice. He was truly a "brother beloved", and his consistent testimony, whether in the schoolhouse, the chapel, or wherever his labors carried him, will be long remembered.Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-34603036868956784672010-02-09T19:46:00.000-08:002010-02-09T19:48:16.664-08:00MISS ME YET?There is a widely reported news story of a billboard outside of Wyoming, Minn., right along I-35 with a picture of a smiling, waving George W. Bush, and a caption "Miss Me Yet?". Apparently, some business people in the nearby town do. Others might have an entirely opposite feeling when they see it, although the billboard management company has stated that in the month since it was erected, there have been no complaints, and in fact, offers of donations to keep it up. <br />One's political leanings will probably determine whether the former president is missed or not - whether "absence makes the heart grow fonder", or "out of sight, and out of mind". <br />I couldn't help but think of believers who we expect are looking for the return of Someone they say they hold dear. Are thoughts of Him ever very far from the surface of the mind? Or is the One whom we claim to love only in our thinking once or twice a week? Is His will, His purposes, His glory the guiding principles of our lives, or is He more like a distant relation - a Person we are somewhat fond of, but don't know very well.<br />When He becomes what He ought to be in our lives, then His absence will be all the more significant, the desire to be in His presence all the greater. Worship will be moving and meaningful, and life will know its purpose. To the above question, applied to Him, we will emphatically say with the disciple whom Jesus loved, <strong>"Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!"</strong>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-73490719896660118932010-02-08T20:18:00.000-08:002010-02-08T20:19:57.914-08:00Annual Needham Bible Chapel conference announcement<div align="center"><br />Needham Gospel Center Inc.<br />Bible Chapel<br />2497 New Hope Road<br />Needham, Alabama 36915<br />(251) 843-2034<br /><a onclick="top.checkNewBrowser('26?To=biblechapel@millry.net&count=1265688841')" href="http://webmaila.juno.com/webmail/new/5?userinfo=8050f0543002c6811cdb09bad4aae652&count=1265688663#">biblechapel@millry.net</a><br />February 13 & 14<br />The Needham Bible Chapel would like to take this opportunity to invite you to our 26th annual celebration.<br />God has been so faithful to permit The Chapel to promote Biblical New Testament Doctrine and Principles in the Needham Community for over Fifty Nine years. We would like for you to come and help us celebrate His Faithfulness.<br />Saturday February 13th<br />4:30pm - Evening Meeting, Randy Amos<br />6:00pm - Meal, Chapel<br />7:00pm - Congregational Sing Along, Special Music<br /> Ministry; Randy Amos<br />Sunday February 14th,<br />9:45am - Breaking of Bread.<br />11:00am - Ministry; Randy Amos<br />Please print this and share with your assembly, we would love to see you here. We will make accommodations for all who would like to come. Some in homes, or if you prefer, Motel in Butler. Email <a onclick="top.checkNewBrowser('26?To=jamsbonr@millry.net&count=1265688841')" href="http://webmaila.juno.com/webmail/new/5?userinfo=8050f0543002c6811cdb09bad4aae652&count=1265688663#">jamsbonr@millry.net</a> or call 251-843-5734, home; Cell 205-4571611 </div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-72570660732927024732010-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:002010-01-31T20:31:04.900-08:00Ladies' Pajama Party<div><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433125141279242034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqJtOgimflqkZzTVYiHzbYgkS3FYYu_XMqPEdOkZv98o0nMpLPU_CfpcnQ2BBiR66hyphenhypheninfBlOZ7feGnlX6TZXADEe3gZvoUhixlfsc1uTWovQUHYSIz0WQyCJn5yqtPanPHHx8gay1Ao/s320/DSCF9975.JPG" border="0" /> January 23rd was our first ever "Pajama Party" at the chapel - Ladies' only! The ladies had become aware of the need for new children's pajamas for kids being sheltered in New Orleans. The shelters won't take used pj's, only new. It was decided that seamstress skills could be put to work, and for relatively little cost pajamas could be made. This proved to be a time of good fellowship and friendship. Truly, these were "workers together" with the hope of ministering to real needs in a practical way. Each finished pair was enclosed in a clear bag, along with a age-appropriate gospel tract. May HE get the glory!</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433127050692649970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjys4xfjsIiVHMHF8Hs_lE9eZeso2DmeKnZcT5I1gsucbQA_V4Xs-i-av1n4ctq33KCloe5-JDgp7aBVvG4crh_BO5qSWJcDRG_Iiz7dYZtgIxeGQULjGCyGWfTUsBqCfjOPaVUK0B-0uY/s320/DSCF9966.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433127042733485234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOol-fGDdoaLqxlq7VvbbTbGM3KuXn56UBvsDEsc8LvTZjP0Ogwl0C_dvqh08gE6T75WQIz9d4yoSy91jh4IpswIbygEjbtCcvHxDVIJsZ24I0ufZyQ3avR27_4r5k6z2NKtbpaQ2Taw/s320/DSCF9968.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433127038345760274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqneiVE4axozwH0Llii_A4g9H96Ucb8JPHBkkHjYUphTVHPRlhpndEEi7atoaIKhhZ9LJwieZBq2z-pDFpxbpMZnPrugwcQHayh3ApBbwBBNvC63hQO-ge8KH7Q0_wxUxSSB6djff604I/s320/DSCF9973.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433127035546271426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm90aSrB5QgyBmv7yvlo8kxVZ5xxuQkiBTsxN3-lLCtVzsYv9_aic0VCGk49QuUFPLo30Jy3UOCu1g5UAA6pKPFbW7y1vNUuLcUrF3jzy7I49xFe5Jb93PsLnY07EZN4eXBNKwEs9TnTA/s320/DSCF9965.JPG" border="0" />Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-1538104810068667542010-01-07T18:15:00.000-08:002010-01-07T18:34:20.870-08:00A New Year's PrayerOur good friend John Hughes shared the following at the "Watchnight" Service at Hope Bible Chapel in Birmingham, AL:<br /><div align="center">ANOTHER YEAR IS DAWNING</div><div align="center">Another year is dawning! Dear Father, let it be,</div><div align="center">In working or in waiting, another year with Thee;</div><div align="center">Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast;</div><div align="center">Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest;</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace;</div><div align="center">Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face;</div><div align="center">Another year of progress, another year of praise;</div><div align="center">Another year of proving Thy presence all the days;</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Another year of service, of witness for Thy love;</div><div align="center">Another year of training for holier work above.</div><div align="center">Another year is dawning! Dear Father, let it be</div><div align="center">On earth, or else in heaven, another year for Thee.</div><div align="right">- Frances Ridley Havergal</div><br />A challenging meditation for those who love Him.Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-47086669698489111012009-12-19T20:01:00.000-08:002009-12-19T20:24:56.875-08:00Good News for Christmas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2RB-JwalXfea-jiGZmKBeUVhrJZdTPlwcHqvWvAAApW4eM6YYuapmZUF8-98-MiIb0B-CXn3IQhXU32Yt68lsPQGuWPaUxPCaFHUTytbSUDuZFjp4H7nLRM3z-S4V8-rVWg-TJ6N7is/s1600-h/year_end_001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417169207932146626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2RB-JwalXfea-jiGZmKBeUVhrJZdTPlwcHqvWvAAApW4eM6YYuapmZUF8-98-MiIb0B-CXn3IQhXU32Yt68lsPQGuWPaUxPCaFHUTytbSUDuZFjp4H7nLRM3z-S4V8-rVWg-TJ6N7is/s200/year_end_001.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>December 5th was the Annual Christmas Parade in Millbrook, which always offers the opportunity for vendors to set up booths in the Village Green Park. This marked the 5th year we've had the privilege to participate with our own booth - not to sell our wares, but to give away free items for children and adults. Balloons, Candy Canes, and a gentle reminder of the One who is the "Reason for the Season" - and the Good News that that means to us. </div><br /><div>Some dear friends were present to help with the distribution of gift bags - a simply decorated bag that included a wallet calendar for 2010, a candy cane, and a little pamphlet with the "Story of the Candy Cane" printed in it. We also had brochures for the chapel for those interested, and free balloons for the children.</div><br /><div>It was bitter cold, and traffic was sparse most of the morning. One might wonder, "Is this worth all the trouble?" Our answer came from a vendor who came by our booth and said, "You are always so good to do this each year. You never know who needs to receive this." And we don't. But we do know that many DO need to hear the Good News of Christmas - and of the Lord Jesus who came to be our Savior. </div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-33893080992947859692009-11-10T04:05:00.001-08:002009-11-10T04:06:16.589-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHA1LmX52V0X2-Azqn-KuRgmG649Ksqmo7ID9n5hdZsjXUt0bjLObCl-bNhRxAN9gRfcIGJlHYgcczJ1CAuZME1Wnal2y8AgHgRCRzu376o2ZtT5g8yGPVSJtvwWABrNXdpoC-4x1z9RI/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402444923024507458" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHA1LmX52V0X2-Azqn-KuRgmG649Ksqmo7ID9n5hdZsjXUt0bjLObCl-bNhRxAN9gRfcIGJlHYgcczJ1CAuZME1Wnal2y8AgHgRCRzu376o2ZtT5g8yGPVSJtvwWABrNXdpoC-4x1z9RI/s200/image001.jpg" border="0" /></a> I'll probably be getting glasses before too long. I notice a difficulty seeing things up close now, particularly after a long day. I haven't "seen" to it already more from a lack of time to schedule a visit to the eye doctor than worry about appearance - vanity gave way to practicality a long time ago.<br />Which all reminds me of Paul's insight to the Corinthians - "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:" (1 Cor 13:12), and John's terrific promise - "When He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as he is." (1 John 3:2). Every believer is hindered in their vision now - what we "see" of Him is through eyes of faith. But then - what a day, when the scales will fall, and glorified eyes will see that Glorified Man! As the hymn writer said, "What a day, glorious day, that will be!"Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-46428088619714657752009-10-22T17:19:00.001-07:002009-10-23T06:35:22.085-07:00Lines of Demarcation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Rt7uJhmFjI-MTteNL8-LWIUmm4-WoI-J0EkL6nOP7Lkc7-kC7Q7__BlxMXGdLOchz8fbQHE2s-G0GRenj6SgHtTa77Z6Th_5Xw_H25nG1IuadFJhvAGyZImoacgS0Yy1n0q1jNNEfFU/s1600-h/100_3983.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395583547620490466" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 183px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Rt7uJhmFjI-MTteNL8-LWIUmm4-WoI-J0EkL6nOP7Lkc7-kC7Q7__BlxMXGdLOchz8fbQHE2s-G0GRenj6SgHtTa77Z6Th_5Xw_H25nG1IuadFJhvAGyZImoacgS0Yy1n0q1jNNEfFU/s200/100_3983.JPG" border="0" /></a> A recent visit to Southern Pennsylvania gave the opportunity to see a marker for something many of us may have thought to be mere legend - the Mason-Dixon Line. Surveyed between 1763 and 1767, this line forms parts of the borders between Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia (then Virginia) and Delaware. The term "Mason-Dixon line" later became a popular if not totally accurate means of distinguishing the Northern States from the South. The stone referred to by the historical marker on the roadside sits about 500 feet to the east, easily seen to be jutting up in the backyard of a homeowner. I wonder how complicated it is for him to pay his property taxes.<br />Many want to "blur the lines" between right and wrong, or good and evil these days. We may thank the Lord there is a fixed standard - God's Word, the Bible. In it, God clearly marks out the "difference" between Himself (incomparably and absolutely holy) and us (ruined, guilty, fallen sinners). There is a marked distinction between His abode (Heaven - a place of eternal bliss) and Hell (the place of everlasting judgment and separation from Him). There is also a decided choice to be made, whether to repent of one's sins and to by faith receive His Son as Savior, or reject Him to one's eternal loss.<br />Just as we saw on the roadside, there is a difference. Make sure your choice is the right one. <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">"He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." - John 3:18</span></strong>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-79518941339569204142009-10-10T20:40:00.000-07:002009-10-10T20:43:40.909-07:00Jim Leaptrot updateDear all,<br />Lisa (Leaptrot) Shepley has set up a CaringBridge site for her father - you can link it here: <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jamesleaptrot1/mystory" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jamesleaptrot1/mystory</a>. Not much added yet, but it is a good way to keep up with things. <br />Linda is still staying in the area. Your prayers are coveted.Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-13847143408203010402009-10-02T19:49:00.000-07:002009-10-02T19:57:05.418-07:00Inside the cup<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1O1ahYLYA6sM9JZycieZ5OORZYA7drR1LuD1ePsxtQx2tzxscvDXtihHM3WcpRfq1vYsiAZh1lhIwYKOEWDk7uIYFLxbaP9bk2V66AQYrnEWnbY1VKwrh7b8hu1mcqQQXh-nW-K5plw/s1600-h/inside+the+cup.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388202128819250722" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 191px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1O1ahYLYA6sM9JZycieZ5OORZYA7drR1LuD1ePsxtQx2tzxscvDXtihHM3WcpRfq1vYsiAZh1lhIwYKOEWDk7uIYFLxbaP9bk2V66AQYrnEWnbY1VKwrh7b8hu1mcqQQXh-nW-K5plw/s320/inside+the+cup.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><em>"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence." - Matthew 23:25 ESV</em>. This Scripture came to mind as I looked down on my coffee cup today. It's a white cup, a gift from a vendor friend of mine. From the outside, it still looks like new. the inside tells the tale, however - my many cups of morning java have left some heavy staining. Before I commit it to the dishwasher, I am reminded of the Lord's words to those who put on a good front for others, but inside were not as clean as the outside appeared. How like us sometimes - putting on a good show for others, but if only others were to look inside! <em>"For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7 ESV).</em> What does the Lord see in me? </div>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-60446525772963267202009-09-29T20:35:00.001-07:002009-09-29T20:38:38.305-07:00Lost....and Found - Jim Leaptrot<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_vZ47OHOMPGF9uUSkAfhJCD2puQcBlosBB8LZpIRDaXE8CfnK6JFpnU2v7NGTclBWU8x2T6v1WloFxJtylss_SgUVFFRetx5pPF7D9-JpVoITmnNMeHL57wCfWbcGEuZsFRM3lRQds8/s1600-h/Jim+%26+Linda+Leaptrot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387099243470862034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_vZ47OHOMPGF9uUSkAfhJCD2puQcBlosBB8LZpIRDaXE8CfnK6JFpnU2v7NGTclBWU8x2T6v1WloFxJtylss_SgUVFFRetx5pPF7D9-JpVoITmnNMeHL57wCfWbcGEuZsFRM3lRQds8/s320/Jim+%26+Linda+Leaptrot.jpg" border="0" /></a> We received word late Monday evening that our friend, Jim Leaptrot, had left home that morning, and had not returned. He suffers from Alzheimer's. He has continued to drive locally, but evidently this time became greatly confused and could not find his way back. He was finally located in a hospital in Savannah, GA this evening (Tuesday) with moderate injuries sustained from rolling his pick-up truck. While details are sketchy, we know that he was at one time as far west as Tuskegee, AL, and as far south as Fortson, GA (near Jacksonville, FL).<br />We, as well as so many others, have agonized in prayer for the past 36 or more hours, longing for some good news of Jim's discovery. Many hearts were lifted to hear of God's provision and protection for His lost lamb. We wish him a speedy recovery, and will pray to that end.<br />The past days' incident has caused me to think, "when have I so agonized over THE lost?". I could hardly eat today, even being somewhat ashamed that I did. My friend was lost. I had trouble thinking about my duties at work. My friend was lost. Jesting and light-heartedness escaped me. My friend was lost. But I can't tell you when the spiritually lost have left me so troubled. Why not?<br />The spiritually lost, condemned and hell-bound, are in far worse condition than my friend Jim. Often, they too are running pillar to post, seeking what they cannot find. Peace. Rest. Home. And I have the answer. The Savior came to seek the lost (Luke 19:10). How can I not do likewise?Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354771770216213912.post-34179785045052305442009-09-26T20:48:00.000-07:002009-09-29T20:44:19.114-07:00Kansas City Outreach October 3, 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqXrzrYpz8EQ44LrfnzKQUUvhLUtxf_RG9GAJsf8PWLiBQthS2JXyoo4iDZd15fSLZTI_xp1z-JmkmcCDwV_iI9pbOlNRLYfFH0eSNK_cklV8m29fK2DsMk7f8T6QwXakSBT6GRY29gg/s1600-h/chapel_sign_summer_2.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387100827349828354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 208px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 120px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqXrzrYpz8EQ44LrfnzKQUUvhLUtxf_RG9GAJsf8PWLiBQthS2JXyoo4iDZd15fSLZTI_xp1z-JmkmcCDwV_iI9pbOlNRLYfFH0eSNK_cklV8m29fK2DsMk7f8T6QwXakSBT6GRY29gg/s320/chapel_sign_summer_2.bmp" border="0" /></a> In the will of the Lord, the saints in Shawnee, Kansas intend to reach out with the gospel to various communities within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Numerous young people from the mid-west will also be traveling to Kansas City to assist with the effort. Some methods include literature distribution, open air preaching, park ministry, door to door work and a parade float campaign. We hope to distribute 20,000 pieces of literature in this community of approximately 2 million people. This gospel effort will take place on Saturday, October 3. We appreciate the prayers of the Lord's people as we endeavor to see souls saved and souls discipled.on behalf of the Bible Chapel of Shawnee,<br />Danny Chavez<br />email: <a href="mailto:djchavez1@sbcglobal.net">djchavez1@sbcglobal.net</a><br /><a href="http://www.shawneebiblechapel.org/">http://www.shawneebiblechapel.org/</a>Central Bible Chapelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08402565801328660269noreply@blogger.com0