Tim Noel, Director of Church Partnership & Mission Advancement Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries On multiple occasions, I have shared that I love history, especially the
As we start off 2026, I want to introduce our team to you as a reminder of how we can serve you as Arkansas Baptists.
On May 27, 2009, the world’s largest worship venue opened in Arlington, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. It has the ability to hold 110,000 people,
On Christmas 1914, a few German soldiers greeted their Allied enemies with “Merry Christmas” in their native tongues. Soldiers from both sides reluctantly emerged from their trenches
As we wrap up Thanksgiving, I hope you have had time to express gratitude for the provision of our Lord. Now as we enter into
Tomorrow, millions of Americans will gather to share time and table together in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday. Our family will have multiple gatherings in
by Heather Maino, Clinical Director of Counseling, Living Well Counseling January 4, 2024… It was our fourth wedding anniversary. I stood on the shoulder of
The following is adapted from President Ben Sells’ annual report to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention at the 2025 annual meeting. It’s an honor for
Every Christian university exists within a web of tensions. On one hand, it must meet the rigorous demands of higher education: accreditation, academic excellence, financial
Serving these last three years at Camp Siloam has been nothing short of amazing. My first encounter with Camp was back in 2007. My home
When Markham Street Baptist Church made the generous decision to give their building to Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries (ABCFM) to become our central office, none
Scripture is crystal clear about the importance of honoring our pastors, yet the pastor is often the one who is left to initiate it. I
By Dillon McClain, Vice President/Attorney Arkansas Baptist Foundation The Foundation seeks to serve Arkansas Baptist churches (hereafter “Church or Churches”) in many ways, but we
Since being named chair of the ABSC Executive Board in October 2023, I have had the privilege of sharing my perspective in these articles. I
On September 10, 2025, a horrible event shook the American educational and political landscape: Charlie Kirk — co-founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) and a
Note: This article is drawn from President Ben Sells’ Convocation Chapel address to students on September 2. With Convocation, we bring together new and returning
What if there was a ministry already within your reach that could strengthen the families in your church and also serve as an outreach to
When most people think of a church, they think of ‘Church’— worship services, Sunday school classes, youth programs, and community outreach. And rightly so, the heart of any church should be ministry. But every church, whether we want to acknowledge it or not, is more than just ‘Church’. Every church is also a nonprofit organization, an employer, and a legal entity with trustees or directors who carry important legal and financial responsibilities. Recognizing this reality helps leaders manage the church with wisdom, integrity, and foresight.
Over the past years, I have served as a trustee for the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Nominated by our Association and
On July 5, tragedy struck close to home for the Williams Baptist University family. In the quiet hours of the early morning, a fire tore
Sean Milliken, Arkansas Baptist Ranch Director of Operations Recently, while playing a trivia game with my family, I was surprised to hear from our (unsubstantiated)
I was having a conversation with a friend in our church years ago. The church was looking to change Sunday morning worship times. Our purpose
Earlier this month, I was encouraged after attending the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Dallas as it served as another reminder of the Lord’s
We live in a time that often emphasizes individual success, personal achievements, self-interests, and self-centered feelings. There is a constant urge to prioritize personal goals
On April 2, 2025, I marked my seventh anniversary as president of Williams Baptist University. When Joy and I arrived on this campus in 2018,
The following is President Ben Sells’ address during Ouachita’s May 2025 Commencement ceremony. Ouachita’s vision and mission statements do more than articulate our university’s purpose
By Ryan Ropp, LCSW, ABCFM Director of Connected Families “God in His holy dwelling is a father to the fatherless and a champion of widows.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him,
Thank you! Those two words were drilled into my brother and me by our parents. Yes sir, no sir, yes ma’am, no ma’am, please, and
One of the most common phrases I hear from Arkansas Baptists about their finances and estate planning is some version of “I don’t need to
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the work of Dr. Rex Horne. Serving in the role of Chair of the
This coming Sunday is Easter Sunday. As I have grown older, my perception and understanding of Easter has grown dramatically. This article will focus on
“Premium value and surprisingly affordable” – that’s an increasingly used phrase to describe Ouachita Baptist University, illustrated by the following: Ouachita is academically excellent. We
At Williams Baptist University, we are breaking new ground in Christian higher education with the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business. Starting
“As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not
I have always been grateful for the faith of my grandparents and parents. They were born-again, committed Christians and by conviction and choice, Baptists. I
There are nine justices who serve on the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) – correctly titled out of respect for judicial purists. It
I recently attended a meeting where the discussion turned to investments. As I looked at the reports, it seemed like a Greek lesson to me
“Then he [Jesus] said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to
As Ouachita Baptist University has posted its highest spring headcount in more than 30 years, the continued enrollment growth reflects Ouachita’s commitment to being academically
Acts 1:8 – “but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in
Tim Noel serves as the Director of Mission Advancement and Church Partnership at Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries. Lately, I have been drawn to
New year’s resolutions have been around as long as the new year has been observed I imagine. We make them, break them, laugh, and write
In 2024, the Foundation celebrated 75 years of serving Arkansas Baptists. Throughout the year we were honored to remember and celebrate the ways we had
Jimmie Sheffield retired as associate executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention in 2003 and currently assists the Evangelism+Church Health Team. Since early childhood,
Dr. Don Moore served as the executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention from 1982 to 1995. He encourages senior adults to pray for
By Phillip Slaughter, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Crossett Let’s rewind two thousand years. Imagine yourself growing up in a Jewish family and hearing of the
Annual events are most times anticipated, though some are dreaded. I will not get into tests, physicals and maybe a few difficult family situations. Let’s
When Lisa and I were raising children, we lived far from family. We returned home in the summer, but usually not for holidays. Christmas Day
In my report at the 2024 annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, I shared some personal reflections regarding a faith journey I have
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will
Together, unity, and other synonyms are words often used in many ways in life. Athletic teams, political parties, churches, and conventions come to mind. I
We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to SERVE Arkansas Baptist churches and ministries, ADVISE in areas where our staff are gifted and equipped,
We are fortunate to live on property with a large backyard on approximately 1.75 acres. It is not a pastureland, but for inside the city,
The Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church October 22-23. This is a pivotal
With Convocation, we bring together new and returning students with faculty and staff to formally begin the academic year.
Over the past two to three years, the number of times I get asked this question seems to grow more and more in conversations with prospective students and their families.
A camp called Siloam is a place where God and people meet and experience salvation, discipleship, and a call to serve Jesus Christ! Camp Siloam
Prayer. What comes to mind? Intercession? God the Father who loves us and is all powerful, has all knowledge and is ever present? Jesus Christ
A recent regulation may have significant implications for churches and nonprofits, and we implore each church to read and understand whether or not this regulation
For just over a decade, I have had the privilege of serving on behalf of Arkansas Baptists in churches and on college campuses across the
Paul Williams serves as senior pastor at First Baptist Church in White Hall and currently serves as president of the ABSC Executive Board. Second Corinthians
Don Moore, retired executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, continues to encourage Arkansas Baptists to pray. Coming out of the Olympic season we
Our world desperately needs Christ-centered leaders. I believe God birthed WBU to be a place that meets this critical need.
I’m grateful for the generations who came before us who faithfully and effectively stewarded this Christian university.
Imagine the lives that could be changed if we all fully embraced our faith and walked accordingly.
As a part of the Arkansas Baptist family, when you ask, we will help.
If you have an employee who will now be nonexempt under the new thresholds, who routinely works more than 40 hours per week, this may require you to put pen to paper and calculate if paying overtime or raising their salary makes more sense.
1 Corinthians 10:31, a verse embedded within the fabric of Christian teachings, serves as a guiding light for believers navigating the complexities of daily existence.
Whenever I am introduced to individuals that have laid a foundation and created a history of ministry, I always have a great sense of appreciation and awe at their work.
This year’s university theme has been “lives of meaningful work,” a phrase in our mission statement focused on one purpose of an Ouachita education. There are many dimensions to a life of meaningful work.
I am grateful to work for and lead a Christian university that I believe has been faithful to a biblical understanding of elite. An elite Christian university should be committed to biblical authority, the lordship of Christ, orthodox Christian theology, a commitment to serve the church, and a mission to produce Christian leaders.
The real secret to Camp Siloam is the partnership with Arkansas Baptist churches to bring kids out of their normal scenery and to a place where they hear the good news of Jesus. We partner together for the glory of God and to reach the next generation for Christ. That is why camp matters. It brings glory to God.
Jesus is still doing this work. He is redeeming and restoring families through the hard work of foster care, and I believe He is calling all of us to be involved.
Pray that out of your church the Lord will call out workers. Our churches and communities have a great need for God called servant leaders.
Thank you, Arkansas Baptists, for allowing us to serve you these last 75 years.
2 Samuel 23:4 reads, “He dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.” God wants you to see His beautiful sunrise so that you will know you are free. Take a moment to say, “Good morning, God.”
During the past four years, the number of worship studies majors has grown from fewer than 10 to more than 30.
The Bible teaches we were created to work.
By Don Moore, retired executive director, ABSC This is a question on the minds of many. For more than a decade our churches have declined
Pray for us at Arkansas Baptist Ranch, a ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries, as we serve the children in our care and their families.
Celebrations of significant events and experiences are important.
We know that hindsight is 20/20, but looking back on what God has done should embolden us in our ministry today.
The fruit of a daily intentional personal relationship with Jesus is the renewing of our minds and the ability to discern what pleases God.
Remember the big picture and focus on the beauty of God’s love and His power. Worship and praise Him.
Please join with me in praying for God to loudly and clearly call a new generation of faithful followers to serve vocationally in the local church.
It’s their stories that give me joy in this work and ministry known as Ouachita Baptist University and that illustrate the stewardship of Arkansas Baptists’ investment.
May the Lord lead us to be sensitive to the people who need the Lord who are all around us.
I am humbled by the ministry I am tasked with leading.
Beginning my eighth decade of ministry, perhaps the following will encourage others to press on.
As I think about giving gifts, I am reminded that this season provides a wonderful opportunity for giving to missions.
We need Christmas to come around. We need the reminder that Jesus came as our Savior.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its regularly scheduled Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Arkansas Baptist churches, Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University are better together in helping the next generation contend for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints.
WBU was founded in the midst of the greatest military conflict in human history – World War II. Also, we were birthed in the midst of one of the greatest global economic disasters – the Great Depression.
LWC has established strong relationships with churches, community organizations, and professionals.
The Camp Siloam program team works for two years on each theme, putting a lot of thought and time into the development of a story that will be compelling to campers.
The main mission of the ABF is to serve, advise, and encourage the over 1500 Southern Baptist Churches in Arkansas.
I can sincerely say I have always been excited about working for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
Two years ago, I wrote my first article as President of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. My term ends later this month. It has been
Like any other scientific discovery, technology can be a gift from God that we can steward for his glory.
The following is the text of Dr. Ben Sells’ address to students, faculty and staff during Ouachita’s August 2023 Convocation ceremony.
In 2024, our flagship campus in Monticello, Arkansas Baptist Homes for Children, celebrates its 130th birthday and we will celebrate in strength!
Turn is a word that is usually defined as something to do with rotation or focus. The biblical word in Luke’s gospel is to turn toward something or someone.
You have no doubt heard the phrase “bucket list.” It is a list of things a person would like to do before they “kick the
Each August, the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) provides an opportunity for their Board of Directors to learn more about the work and ministry of the agencies and institutions it serves by taking their annual Board Advance to one of their ministry partners’ locations.
Here’s what came to my mind, my perspective for today.
Williams Works allows Williams Baptist University students to work their way through college.
At Ouachita Baptist, we’re committed to preparing our students for lives of meaningful work.
In this article we want to share with you what the property would have been like that first summer and how Arkansas Baptists went to work constructing new buildings in order to comfortably host campers.
For the church to step into the brokenness that overwhelms all our communities, they must be healthy and equipped. Healthy churches will undoubtedly impact a hurting community.
The purpose of the ABSC is to assist churches of the convention in fulfilling their mission and to encourage cooperative support of and involvement in our worldwide mission enterprise.
I have often said that summer should be the Foundation’s “slow time” or at least “non-peak season” regarding in-office activity. However, as I reflect back
As I look at the work of Arkansas Baptists, with our churches, agencies, and institutions, using the baseball analogy, I see a variety of “positions” or what we might call ministries making up an extraordinary team.
As I write this article, I am attending the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. While the final gavel
May 6, 2023, was a day of polarities for the Williams community – a day of contrasts.
The most effective people are “learners” rather than “knowers.”
In researching the history of Camp Siloam one of the most compelling things we have discovered is the enthusiasm Arkansas Baptists had for the new Assembly grounds.
Through Gospel-centered reconciliation, we can experience a world where “healing people heal people.”
I have been reading through Dr. Scott Duvall’s book, “The Heart of Revelation.” His illustration about perseverance caught my eye.
At the Arkansas Baptist Foundation, we have the opportunity to answer lots of questions from churches about various administrative issues. One question we get quite often is whether or not a church has to pay sales tax.
Focus on what will matter years from now, not just this moment.
Building trust means that you must be trustworthy.
Knowing our work at Williams makes a difference in the lives of others always lifts my spirit.
In four years, Ouachita’s nursing program has grown from zero to 100 students.
What is amazing about all Christian summer camps is that they were birthed out of the revival fires of the Cane Ridge revivals. Multiple sources
The first chapter of humanity gives only a glimpse of what life was like before sin: Like an enemy ambush, brokenness stormed the earth forever
I enjoy reading the various definitions of words. This word—perspective— has several definitions.
We believe a scholarship is an investment in the education of a future generation.
Recently, I have been thinking about what it means to finish strong. I am 85 years old and realize that I don’t have that many
“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So,
“Not on our watch!” These were the words that one of my colleagues, Dr. Marvin Schoenecke, shared at a recent meeting of our executive leadership
Listen to what a 1999 Ouachita alumna named Lizann recently shared with me about a life-changing class – and notice the level of detail she
Because of these families who dared greatly in 2022, over 50,000 nights of care were provided for foster children through Connected Foster Care and Adoptions! Each of those nights represents a real child with a face and a name sleeping safely in a real bed with a real family who loved with Gospel-centered selflessness and offered real hope.
We could use help from Arkansas Baptists to collect information about Camp Siloam. We are looking for pictures, stories, and videos of events that happened at Camp Siloam since 1923.
There are a number of reasons why I am proud to be a Southern and Arkansas Baptist.
When we remember that estate planning is not just for us, but for the ones we love, it becomes easier to take the necessary steps to efficiently steward your estate.
A favorite hallmark of the Christmas season is the music we sing and hear throughout the month of December. Whether it’s a children’s choir, a favorite album, a symphony, or a choir presentation, we are surrounded by the sounds of Christmas. If we’re honest, we can often become complacent when hearing or singing lyrics – especially to the Christmas carols.
Personal experience has taught me that life is to be treasured.
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).
Imagine yourself arriving in Nepal to study at Kathmandu University. You are alone without friends or family.
Thanksgiving is a special day in the Sheffield household. We have one daughter, five grandchildren and eight grandchildren.
“What’s wrong with me?” I have heard these words too many times.
Women are looking for leaders who are real and approachable.
“One generation will declare your works to the next …” Psalm 145:4
The upshot of such focused prayer is that the church is provided a climate in which her Gospel truth may be freely and vigorously proclaimed “in a quiet and peaceful” setting.
May His praises be overwhelming, and His honor preserved by us having united hearts before His throne. Let’s understand there is a reason for us being as we are; accept that being different is not necessarily evil and then appreciate anything that blesses another brother or sister.
The Kingdom value of the smaller membership churches cannot be overstated.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention will meet in Hot Springs for our 169th session preceded by the Pastors’ Conference, October 24-26.
August 17 marked the beginning of a new school year at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) and my seventh as Campus Minister for
Excellence is necessary, but distinctiveness will set you apart.
As a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), we have seen their mission of “enhancing trust in Christ-centered churches and ministries” ring true time and time again. In fact, we believe financial accountability and stewardship go hand in hand.
Sharing our faith is hard for us. It was apparently hard for Paul, which is why he asked people—in almost every letter he wrote—to pray for him in this arena.
I first felt God’s call on my life in my junior year of high school. In the summer following that year, I surrendered my life to vocational ministry.
May we know and believe that God is willing and able to save and transform our lives because that is who He is, and that is how He works.
Together, we can change the trajectory that families are on today.
One of our long-cherished Baptist beliefs is a doctrine called the priesthood of all believers. This biblical concept teaches that all born-again believers function collectively in their local churches as believer-priests.
This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Have you ever noticed King Hezekiah’s prayer in 2 Kings 17? When Hezekiah was sent a very threatening letter, he did what other kings no
One of the foundational elements of our cooperative missions strategy is the local association.
Our assignment as believers is planned, personal, and perfected in community
Explore the Bible is an ongoing Bible study curriculum that helps groups dig into the key truths of each Bible book, while keeping the group on pace to study through the Bible books in a systematic way.
We need to remember that Jesus invited us to ask Him when we know of a need.
If answering prayer is one way God has of revealing His grace, why would we not want to pray big?
Unfortunately, most foster homes are not equipped to care for large sibling groups. Thankfully, the campus care program of Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries is perfectly suited to meet this need.
As we gather at Inspire, we will sing about hope, study about hope, and share stories of hope.
It doesn’t escape me that as a culture, we are quick to share information, to share our ideas, our knowledge, our opinions, our insights, and everything else. But are we quick to share a reason for the HOPE we have?
At Ouachita, we collect and assess data on student outcomes that provide evidence of progress—of growth—toward fulfilling our Christ-centered higher education mission.
I actually have dual citizenship. For more than three decades I can proudly boast citizenship in the U.S. and citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven.
All humans need to learn how to love, forgive, seek God’s guidance and most importantly repent.
I was honored to be one of a few hundred messengers from Arkansas Baptist churches at the Southern Baptist Convention in Anaheim, California on June 14-15.
According to the latest statistics concerning estate planning, over fifty percent of United States’ citizens do not have an estate plan in place.
First Samuel chapter one chronicles Hannah’s cries to God for a son and God’s faithfulness to provide a child. Hannah’s story—in part—became our family’s story.
In previous articles, I have shared my journey in ministry. To be truthful, I would not have been effective in ministry without Annette.
One of the primary reasons for any church planter’s success, joy, and perseverance in planting churches is because of the people who have partnered with the planter in prayer.
When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city had gathered at the door … In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. (Mark 1:32-37)
All of us know what it is like to need hope. Life can be hard, and it is easy to get discouraged.
Arkansas families need to know how deeply Arkansas Baptists love them.
Choose to be light in the darkness of the world. Embrace those struggling to find hope in the midst of the chaos. Live counter-culturally and be a glimpse of the healing that awaits us.
One of my favorite things to do when I am feeling out of sorts is to reorient my mind with the words and actions of Jesus.
We stand on the shoulders of these who invested their lives in a mission of building this Campus of Christian Purpose.
We invest in our students, encourage them and celebrate their many successes.
Across the world, it is estimated that an abortion occurs every 23 seconds.
There is no aspect of your life, ministry and church that will not be blessed if you will lead the way in your church becoming a “House of Prayer.”
The Greek word that James uses for wisdom is the word “sophia,” meaning the ability to perceive God’s hand in human circumstances.
Join me and encourage your church to begin praying now for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Southern Baptists in Anaheim, June 14-15.
Conversation involves talking and listening. If we are going to be effective in our prayer lives, we will need to become better listeners.
While we should not go around calling the local church a business, I would be one of the first to tell you that churches should have strong business principles.
The call to plant a church comes from God.
Recognizing the state of hopelessness many families are in, the church has many practical ways to take grace into the local community.
(Because sometimes my quiet times happen… on the go!
What is one area in your life right now that maybe you’re not sure God really knows what He’s doing? Or what is something about which you are perhaps doubting Him?
Despite the daunting challenges our nation and world face, by God’s grace Ouachita Baptist University is experiencing momentum.
An ongoing issue for schools like Williams Baptist University revolves around defining our purpose – why do schools like ours exist?
Prayer is an opportunity to spend time with God.
Maturity is not about how big you become. Maturity is about how humble we walk before God. The goal is the “well done” from God.
“THE GENEROSITY OF GOD’S PEOPLE HAS BEEN AMAZING,” should be the top headline of the COVID pandemic.
Change is all around us. We all know that change does affect us from time to time; so, I want to share in this article how I have dealt with change in my ministry life.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its first Quarterly Board Meeting for 2022 on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
God designed church planting as a way to expand His kingdom and is one of the most effective means to spread the gospel and reach new people.
When faced with new information or unfamiliar experiences, our brains must either assimilate or accommodate.
More time with Jesus in prayer would doubtless result in us having a more powerful influence on the unsaved.
Vocational service is the idea that Christ’s followers serve God through our vocation – our work.
Arkansas Baptists are responding to our state’s critical nursing shortage through Ouachita’s new nursing program.
Whatever happened in the past year, God has granted you a new year.
If you are a follower of Christ, you carry a deep longing for MORE. More of Christ—more of His presence, His will, His voice, His direction. More fruit and effectiveness; more life change for you and those around you. More revival and spiritual awakening.
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” -Luke 1:47
God never wastes time or opportunities to accomplish His work of drawing non-believers to him, strengthening His people and building His church—regardless of our pain or challenging situations.
Hope. Merely reading the word can stir our emotions, inspire positive thoughts and lift our spirit. Hope is what keeps us going, causes us to press forward even in the face of hardship or despair, and prevents us from giving up on ourselves or others regardless of past disappointments or current circumstances.
When you pray for our missionaries, please don’t forget to pray for those God has called to the frontlines to care for His children.
PraizFest, student choir weekend, will be held at First Baptist Church in Benton on January 28 and 29, 2022.
While this time of year is always a season of thankfulness and gatherings of family and/or friends, this year seems uniquely sweet, especially at the Foundation and among Arkansas Baptists.
In October, I was reminded of the legacy of Kingdom impact here at Camp Siloam. A man named Phil Fincher stopped by the camp office. Phil is a retired attorney from Naples, Florida, who came to
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ’If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it. For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will anyone give in exchange for his life?’” — Matthew 16:24-26
My simple advice for those journeying through holidays is to make whatever arrangement is necessary to not spend those days alone.
What an incredible time last week at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Annual Meeting at First Baptist Church in Cabot.
What an honor and privilege to serve my fellow Arkansas Baptists! I am deeply humbled by this opportunity. One of my life verses is Psalm 15:6, “The lines
Camp Siloam’s vision is that we see our campers and staff make an eternal, global impact for the Kingdom of God.
The ultimate blessing we have seen through this new partnership is hearing and reading of the impact these funds have had on recipients.
If you wish you could just run away, run to God; if you feel the need to fight, know that God can fight the battle for you.
Who can you bless and encourage so they know they are loved and valued by God and by you?
I am excited to attend our 2021 convention because I can’t wait to see every one of you there.
Williams Baptist University is not like secular, state institutions – and we do not want to be. We have a distinctive purpose, with distinctively Christian commitments and expressions. We have a unique purpose…
Arkansas Baptists, through your generous support, you are investing in first-generation students.
How does the believer determine the difference between what should change and what should NEVER change?
We have heard God’s “Yes” proclaimed in the work of Christ. How much more should we demonstrate faith than those who came before?
We are at our best when we look to God for answers. Once we realize that God has the answers because He is the answer, we can view every unanswered question as an opportunity to call on Him and listen for His reply.
After a year of disruption, this summer has provided several reminders of all we have to be thankful for. Most recently as we celebrated our nation’s independence, I could not help but be thankful to serve in a country that still respects personal and religious freedom. Although there are several things I am sure we would all like to change, this is still the best country to serve in a ministry setting.
I have never seen God move like He has the last four to five weeks in our church. I know pastors can say things like that at times in an attempt to lift themselves up or their church. I promise you that is not my intention, and hopefully the rest of this article will prove that. Our story in Northwest Arkansas began in Hendersonville, Tennessee. I know that sounds weird, so let me explain.
Mick Jagger, the lead singer for the secular rock band the Rolling Stones, recorded a hit song bemoaning the pursuit of and failure to discover what he refers to as “satisfaction” over 50 years ago. “I can’t get no satisfaction, ‘cause I try and I try and I try and I try,” is repeated over and over all to no avail according to the writer. Apparently, this driving passion and its elusiveness strikes a chord with millions of listeners as the song has become a cultural icon since its release in 1965.
Among a list of topics discussed, the partnership between WatersEdge, formerly known as the Oklahoma Baptist Foundation, and ABF to offer accounting services to Arkansas Baptist churches and church plants was announced.
Since the doors were opened to children without family in 1894, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries has not for a single moment stopped caring for children.
Our heart is a prized possession. Sometimes we go to great lengths to make sure our heart is not hurt by the people around us or the circumstances we face.
It is a blessing to know that God not only knows these situations exist, but has already prepared us for them
Ministering to families in our modern day is no easy task. Things just seem to be harder than even 10 years ago when I entered ministry. Families have issues to deal with that previous generations would have called unbelievable.
What I do see as a father and a pastor is a great need for Christian parents and churches to be better equipped to try to have spiritual conversations with those in their lives that might be affected by autism.
I believe in the power of prayer to change things. Yet, I do not take the time to withdraw from the task of ministry and spend time with the Father.
A story about how February’s “snow-mageddon” illustrated the character of students at Ouachita Baptist University, and perhaps a spiritual insight as well. By my estimation,
Someone once said, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” I do believe that is true. But I believe if you back up even before that, we could say it this way: Everything rises and falls on the personal development of the leader.
As I look back on over 60 years of ministry, I have discovered many changes in my role as a minister.
To this day, it is hard to put words to the feelings all of us experienced when we had to cancel just hours before Inspire was scheduled to happen.
I am fully convinced that every so often we need to pause in ministry and make sure we are on target…In order to do that effectively we need to depend on something more reliable than our own opinion or intellect, so let’s try God’s Word.
Last week, I introduced Vision 2025 and our opportunity to cooperate as Baptists on five strategic actions to stand tall with a passionate vision of reaching every person for Jesus Christ in every town, every city, every state, and every nation.
Sometimes when relationships go south, forgiveness is refused. As we know, churches, denominations and personal friendships can be ruptured by the wounds of unforgiveness and bitterness.
I had dreamed of 2020 for as long as I can remember. The anticipation and expectations were high as I counted down to welcome 2020.
This past year was definitely unique and full of challenges; however, there was a record set in 2020 that is certainly worth celebrating. Arkansas Baptists gave over $21 million through the Cooperative Program!
It would be understandable if E.W. Perry was nervous as a silence fell over the hushed crowd. He had stood before large congregations of all
This past year has proved trying for everyone, especially those in the ministry. We’ve dealt with sickness and dying on a scale beyond our experience.
HOUSTON (BP) – “Daddy, he looks like me!” My young Black son pointed to the only Black basketball player on the court that night at
Whirlwinds are hard! If we are not prepared, a whirlwind can cause us to spin out of control.
This is the year of the new normal. That feels hopeful to write. I can’t say normalcy has ever been something I have strived for, but it sounds a lot better than abnormal.
Over the past year, my small group has steadily worked through the narrative story of the Bible, and a few months ago, we found ourselves in Judges 19, a story that isn’t for the faint of heart.
To say “times have changed” when it comes to the way people consume content is a tremendous understatement. When social media started to dominate the internet around 2006 with the expansion of Facebook beyond college campuses, the way we all consume content changed dramatically.
Young people today don’t operate in ways that older adults are accustomed to or fully prepared for. Rather than conforming to tradition, young people today are quite content blazing their own trail.
SHERMAN, Ill. (BP) – Early in my ministry, a young lady from an unchurched family accepted Christ. The family dynamic was unusually complicated by divorce
The church shouldn’t be a place where people are trying to preserve their favorite songs and rituals at the expense of making the message accessible to outsiders. Reaching people—presenting the message in the most winsome and considerate way—was what the apostle Paul strived for.
How do we build churches and communities where relationships are built and thrive, but are still centered around the study of the Scriptures and following Jesus?
I have adopted the phrase “The Williams Way” to capture prominent biblical traits that have been true of the men and women who have in some way been influenced by our mission.
Being the believer that I am in a Sovereign God who “makes all things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose,” I have to believe He has plans to bring out the good.
Yes, there were difficult moments, but those things have shaped me and grown my faith in a James 1 kind of way. Navigating last year was like eating a chocolate covered jalapeno; amid the heat, bitterness and challenges, there were some really sweet memories.
I still remember what an older, wiser Christian said to me back then – a sentence his mentor had said to him 50 years earlier: “If you can’t see very far ahead, go ahead as far as you can see.”
A pair of pilots flew 297 passengers from New Zealand to Antarctica on a sightseeing journey. They were supposed to see beautiful mountain ranges and all kinds of wonderful topography.
And in a culture where snarky skepticism seems to be a defining zeitgeist of our times, the church can also feel less than genuine, even if intentions are to sincerely present our best for the Lord.
As Christmas 2020 approaches, I find myself regularly asking, where is our “peace on earth to those He favors?” In the midst of a pandemic in which the COVID virus wreaks havoc on our nation and world, where is peace?
Maybe this pandemic (and other problems we face) is just another step down the path to revival. Could it be that God really does cause all things to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose? Pray as though you believe it.
I went to seminary with the intention to study theology and counseling, but I had no plans to be a counselor.
When it comes to disciple making in the local church, I am hearing from frustrated pastors and other church leaders who feel they expend a great deal of energy and resources but still don’t make much progress. Their discipleship ministry, much like our flat-bottom boat, is stuck.
Foundation holds Quarterly Board Meeting, finalizes 2021 operating budget, and approves Amos distributions for mission work in Israel
We don’t know a single pastor who hopes their church becomes a holy huddle—an exclusive, clique-ish group of people who are apathetic about seeing others come to new life in Christ.
After a few years of economic optimism, pastors say the 2020 economy is hurting their congregation.
Disappointments – we’ve each had our share of them this year.
Even though the pandemic may change Thanksgiving celebrations this year, Americans still express thankfulness for their family and friends.
How can a church reach out—with minimal contact? These fresh outreach ideas for 2020 can be accomplished with social distancing in mind.
Why do they do this? Because they’ve learned that the enthusiastic support of the pastor is the most effective way to get a church to take action toward any initiative.
As a pastor in a small town I can have a larger influence on my town than a pastor at a larger church in a bigger city.
The SBC is a convention of churches. Churches plant churches and churches send missionaries.
Camp Siloam is pleased to announce it is making plans to be open and hosting summer camp in 2021.
God’s Word cuts and exposes the diseased parts of our hearts, allowing them to be removed. The Great Physician deftly works to bring us to health, to remove unhealthy parts, and to make us into who He wants us to be.
Louisiana’s abortion measure was among many measures on ballots in 32 states, including Stand Your Ground gun laws for churches in two Alabama counties and various measures regarding racial sensitivity received voter approval.
The pastor search process is one of the greatest opportunities in the life of a church, as it firmly establishes a foundation for God’s future blessings.
Jesus died for every person in every town, city, state, and nation. His call to us is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to every person in the world and to make disciples of all the nations.
In recent days, I have adopted a phrase that describes the kinds of people I believe best embody the Williams Baptist University (WBU) mission.
A revitalizing leader’s mission is to strive to see the Lord restore health and vitality to a church by leading the people to seek the heart of God and live out His purposes.
In our cultural moment wrought with crises, we’re faced with a new question: What does it look like to lead well in peculiar and difficult circumstances?
I have been in the ministry for approximately 62 years, and I have never experienced anything like the situation in which we find ourselves now.
But there are also many advantages to sharing online; social media can be a blessing instead of a burden.
A pastor’s work is never finished. When he goes to bed Sunday evening, the last thoughts on his mind are the things that he will need to attend to the following week.
Sunday morning rolls around, the alarm clock sounds, and a sudden urge to fall back to sleep hits. But through the fog of your grogginess, you remember the words, “Don’t forsake the assembly.” It’s the Lord’s Day!
Perhaps you are fortunate enough to know, or have known, someone whose very identity is reflected by their perpetual generosity—this was my Granny.
But data tells us most people without a religious background aren’t showing up in our churches. This is a problem.
May I suggest that by faith, we can do all things through Him who strengthens us.
When Charles Fowler received his orders to go to Korea in the summer of 1950, he did not fully understand why he was going to fight other than knowing that North Korean forces had invaded South Korea and nearly taken the entire peninsula.
October is when we encourage all Southern Baptist churches and congregations to promote our Great Commission mission and ministries giving through the Cooperative Program.
The New Testament book of Acts closes with one of the church’s greatest messengers, the apostle Paul, under a kind of house arrest. Throughout the book of Acts, the church had adapted to different situations to tell people about the love of Jesus Christ.
As we navigate this unprecedented time, I am increasingly thankful for the events and meetings that continue to occur, especially in person.
After 38 years, the work of 53 translators is complete – a translation of the whole Bible into American Sign Language (ASL).
My husband and I live in East Atlanta among refugees. I taught at a school where all of my students were refugees learning English as their second language.
Bobby Bowden coached football for more than 50 years. Over the course of 34 seasons as head coach of the Florida State Seminoles, his teams won twelve conference championships and two national championships. Coach Bowden knows about winning.
The news that Walker’s 11-month-old daughter Esther had leukemia redirected not only her everyday life, but also her ministry calling.
God used our simple, imperfect family to be His hands and feet in a place on the other side of the world for His glory. By His grace, He is still using us. However, this is not just our story.
At 12 years old, Malachi Russell had a list of 17 people – one person for each month he was expected to live. They were his “ones.” During his battle with cancer, Malachi had heard about the Who’s Your One movement – a challenge to Christians to pray for and share the Gospel with one person in their circle of influence – and he took it personally.
Each year it seems our pastors and spiritual leaders are learning more and more about how to cooperate with God in significant, powerful, extraordinary prayer.
As I raised my right hand the morning of Sept. 7, 2001, and once again took the oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, I was hopeful that rejoining the military would help get my life straightened up.
As Great Commission Baptists, we are compelled with the vision to reach every person for Jesus Christ in every town, every city, every state and every nation.
In spite of our attempts to live “normal” lives, the CORONA-19 virus remains a challenge like nothing any of us have ever faced. It appears that the virus itself, while intimidating on its own, has created a fall-out that is much more damaging than we could have ever imagined.
By definition, the Arkansas Baptist Foundation exists to serve, advise, and encourage Arkansas Baptist churches and ministries.
Every first day of school comes with an array of emotions, but the range of fear and excitement has been much more extensive this year. From the masks and social distancing to the actual COVID concerns, the anxiety level for child and caregiver alike has been heightened.
Three years ago, I began using the university’s vision and mission statements to emphasize an annual theme to help us focus on key Ouachita outcomes.
I believe withdrawing or retreating to spend time with the Father is important for spiritual growth
One of the major misconceptions about higher education is the idea that students pursue a degree to get a better job than they might get if they did not go college.
One of the principles we know to build our life and ministry on is to never abandon the basic, foundational principles and activities.
By Derek Brown, Ph.D., LPC Executive Director, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries The historical events of this season will serve to define the
By Bobby Thomas President, Arkansas Baptist Foundation At the Foundation, we are celebrating two significant moves that we have been discussing internally for nearly two
by Manley Beasley, Jr. Pastor, Hot Springs Baptist Church Most of us have special verses, promises, even home-spun sayings that we rely on when exceptionally
FORT WORTH, Texas (BP) — COVID-19 has upended many plans. From vacations to graduations and everything in between, the global pandemic has left few events
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (BP) — I confess that I can be a news junkie. When major world events occur, they can capture my attention and time
By Jason Wilkie Executive Director, Camp Siloam King Solomon wrote, “there is a time for everything; a time to tear down and a time to
By Dr. Stan Norman President, Williams Baptist University Jesus continued going around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good
NASHVILLE (BP) — If God created everything, how did He create Himself? How was Jesus created? Can I touch Jesus in heaven? Does God talk
EDITOR’S NOTE: Ronnie Floyd is president and CEO of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee and former pastor of Cross Church in northwest Arkansas. NASHVILLE
RICHMOND, Va. (BP) — Over the past few months, my morning routine has consisted of the same few activities: exercising, reading Scripture and browsing through
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Jimmie Sheffield, Assistant to the Executive Director at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says “Give
EDITOR’S NOTE: Kie Bowman is senior pastor of Hyde Park Baptist Church and The Quarries Church in Austin, Texas, and president of the Southern Baptists
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Jimmie Sheffield, Assistant to the Executive Director at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. During COVID-19, many people have
By Bobby Thomas President, Arkansas Baptist Foundation As we move through this season of uncertainty, we are continually adjusting our plans and attempting to make
by Manley Beasley, Jr. Pastor, Hot Springs Baptist Church Over thirty years ago my Dad put together a sermon series entitled “Dealing with Adversity.” It
By Dr. Ben Sells President, Ouachita Baptist University Let me tell you a couple of stories that capture what made the 2019-20 academic year, defined
By Derek Brown, Ph.D., LPC Executive Director, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries Have you ever heard the expression, “A picture is worth 1000
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Jimmie Sheffield, Assistant to the Executive Director at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. “Well, our pastor has resigned
By Jason Wilkie Executive Director, Camp Siloam I was watching a documentary on the Irish rock band U2; one of the great rock bands in
By Dr. Stan Norman President, Williams Baptist University In my previous article, I presented the idea that our mission of a biblically-grounded, Christ-centered learning experience
By Rev. Manley Beasley, Jr. ABSC Convention President and Senior Pastor, Hot Springs Baptist Church Recently, I asked myself a probing question in light of
By Derek Brown Executive Director Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries A few weeks ago, one of our foster families took a camping trip.
By Stan Norman, Ph.D. President, Williams Baptist University One of the recent, unanticipated realities for our family is that all of our sons currently reside
By Derek Brown, Executive Director, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries What will the new normal look like? So much uncertainty. Overwhelmed by fear.
DURHAM, N.C. (BP) – I was warned that it would be tricky to lead the Southern Baptist Convention. But I don’t think any of us
Dear Southern Baptists, This announcement is one I neither expected nor wanted to make when I came to the SBC Executive Committee. In fact, it’s
