Prayer Requests for the Week of Dec 18th

Tim's sister, Cindy, is pregnant and the tests reveal it is most likely etopic. Please pray that the tests will be wrong and her pregnancy will continue.

Michele went to see her family dr this week and he wants her to have another CT Scan probably next week. Please pray that it will be clear and that Michele's anxiety over her continued head pain will subside. Pray she can trust God's protection and healing over her head injury.

Amy asked for prayer for their friend, Jay Batten. Their unborn baby has been diagnosed with a heart problem. Please pray God will perform a miracle and heal this precious baby. Pray for peace for the parents.

Lynsi was visiting back in class on Sunday and asked us to pray for Aaron as he continues his schooling in the military. Also pray for Lynsi as she is pregnant with their third baby.

Praise that the Ingrams are all well from the stomach bug and also that baby Jack is doing well from his surgery.

'Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath'
Psalm 116:2

Prayer Requests for the week of Dec 11th

Cindy has finals this week so please pray she can concentrate and be able to see great results from all her hard work this semester.

Nikki's family is having to move her grandmother to a nursing home. Please pray for this transistion and for her grandmother to feel loved and cared for in her new home.

Finn was home sick with that yucky tummy bug on Sunday. Please pray that he will feel better soon.

Pray for our Caring Center clients as this will be the last week we are open until after New Years. Pray for Give Back Sunday as we shower these precious people with food, love and gifts. May they feel the love of Christ through each person serving them on Sunday.

'The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock in whom I take refuge.' Psalm 18:2

Prayer Requests for the Week of December

John will be in Monterrey, Mexico on business through Friday. Please pray for his protection and also for Michelle and the kids while he is gone. Also please pray for Michelle's headaches which are a result of her having a box of tiles in their garage fall on her head.

Terry asked us to pray for his dad who is due to retire from American Airlines next year. Pray that Amercian's bankruptcy won't prevent his dad from receiving all of his benefits.

Tim is looking for a new career opportunity. Pray that the Lord will give him clear direction on his plan for their lives. Also Tiffany and Tim will be traveling to Dallas next week to celebrate his birthday. Pray for travel safety.

Amber's coworker, Julie, has been battling cancer for over a year. Julie got some pretty discouraging news this past week on the progression of her disease. Her current chemo has stopped working and needs to be changed as well as the discovery that the cancer has metastasized to her brain. Please pray for Julie as she continues treatment and that God will give her peace and healing.

'If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be done to you.' John 15:7-11

Prayer Requests for the Week of Nov 20th

Tiffany's grandma fell and broke her front tooth and chipped her shoulder. Pray for quick healing and comfort.

Allison asked us to pray for baby Jack as he will have another set of ear tubes and his adenoids out on Dec 1st. Pray this will take care of little Jack's continuing ear issues.

Cindy and Terry feel they are under attack by Satan. Pray for him to be bound in the name of Jesus and for Cindy and Terry to persevere as they are confident in the work God is calling them to do. Cindy also asked us to pray for her Nana who will be seeing an oncologist soon due to some abnormal bloodwork results. Pray for peace for Nana and the family. Also pray for an swift accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Angie asked us to pray for a co workers brother, David. He is suffering from intestinal problems and his body is beginning to shut down Please pray for God's healing hand to be placed on David and for strength for his family during this most difficult time.

Please pray for all those that are traveling over the Thanksgiving holidays. And above all thank God for the abundant blessings in your life. Even in hard and difficult times, the blessings we all have in our lives are more than we deserve and are a gift from Him.

'Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise His name.' Psalm 100:4

Prayer Requests for the Week of November 14

Emily has asked that we pray for her friend's mom who has been diagnosed with cancer. Please pray for healing and comfort.

Adam was diagnosed with brain cancer a year ago this week. Half of the people that receive his type of diagnosis don't survive the first year. Praising God for his healing and mercy for Adam. Please continue to pray for him to be completely healed.

Our church security guard, Jim, recently lost his nephew in a car accident. Also his dad has been very ill and just recently was well enough to go to a nursing home. Please pray for Jim and his family as they cope with the stress involved in coping with both of these situations.

Please pray for a young friend of the Jim and Brenda's who is struggling with being a new single parent to her two young daughters and also with an addiction to alcohol. She hit rock bottom this week. Pray that she will realize that God is all she needs because He is all she's got! Also pray that she will stay committed to inpatient rehab to kick this addiction.

Cindy's Nana, her dad's mom, has had alot of health issues lately and is also a worrier. At her last dr's visit, she learned of an abnormality in her blood and they are sending her to an oncologist. She is scared as is the rest of the family. It was her son that recently died from leukemia. Please pray that God will lessen her anxiety and she'll find peace in Him. Pray this will not be a serious health issue for her to deal with.

Also Cindy asked us to pray for her as she seeks to witness to her cousin. (It's his dad that just died from the leukemia.) Cindy does not believe Dustin has a relationship with the Lord. She said he avoids family situations but she is trying to get him to come to Thanksgiving so they can have a talk. Pray for him to agree to come, that there is be an opportunity for them to have some time together and for him to have an open heart.

Pray for Chris W and his family as they grieve the loss of Chris' grand
father, Jim.

'Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath'
Psalm 116:2

November Snack Signup

November 13th - Greens and Hassells

November 20th - Terrills and

November 27th - Tomberlins and Grizzles

Prayer Requests for the Week of November 6th

Terry is thankful to have a new pickup. He also asks that we continue to pray for him as he ministers to a friend.

Brad and Janna will be traveling to Chicago to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary. Pray for safe travel and for the grandparents who will be caring for their children. Pray the kids will stay happy and healthy.

Janna's friend, Jody, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. In human terms, this is a desperate situation to this young wife and mom. But with God, nothing is impossible. Pray for miracle of healing in Jody's life.

Pray for Chris's grandfather who is dealing with some health issues.

Please remember Andre, who is Susan's godson. He continues to bruise all over his body and they can't figure out what is wrong. He is continuing to have testing. Please pray they reach an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Pray for our Poland team as the report I had yesterday is that there is big spiritual warfare going on this week. Pray for them to be able to claim the power of Christ through the Holy Spirit to bind Satan from discouraging them and the precious Poles they are ministering to. There are several new Christians that are under attack. Satan isn't happy that God is moving in a mighty way in this place so he has turned on a big time attack.

'Lord my God, give attention to your servant's prayer and his plea for mercy..' 2 Chronicles 6:19

Prayer Requests for the Week of Oct 30th

Janna asked that we pray for her friend, Jody, who had three tumors surgically removed last Thursday; 2 on her ovaries and 1 on her colon. The preliminary report is that they appear malignant. Please pray for God's divine intervention to heal this wife and mom of two completely.

Steven requests prayer for his sister, Robin, who will undergo some major surgery in OKC.

Terry is look for truck and also asked us to pray for him as he ministers to his friend, Drake.

Jim and Brenda are both traveling this week. Please pray for travel safety for both us.

'My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord, in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.' Psalm 5:3

Prayer Requests for the Week of Oct 23rd

'Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we could think or ask, according to the power within us through Christ Jesus, glory to Him in the church, forever and ever. Amen'
Ephesians 3:20,21

PRAISES

Elmores - Our friend Debbie, who is going through a divorce after 36 years of marriage, has had God do some exceedingly abundant good things for her this week as she tries to rebuild her life. God has opened some amazing doors for her to have a fabulous job that will pay enough for her to live on AND a free house to live in until she gets on her feet financially compliments of her soon to be new boss that she just met!

PRAYER REQUESTS

Ingrams - Terry and Cindy are in Guatemala this week. Pray for lives to be changed while they are there as a result of the team sharing the gospel. Pray for Cindy's parents who are caring for their sick kiddos.

Waldens - Chris's grandfather had a pre surgery appt yesterday for a heart procedure he needs to have done. Pray he will be healthy enough to have it done and for a quick, healthy recovery.

Langleys - Finn has been sick with the croup. Pray it will clear up quickly and he'll feel better really soon.

Zacharys - Tiffany is in California this week on business. Pray for safe travel as she returns home on Saturday and also for Tim and the kids while she is away.

Prayer Requests for the Week of Oct 16th

Thank you for praying faithfully for these requests from our class members.

Rogers - Susan asked us to pray for 5 year old Andre and his family as they attempt to discover what is making Andre bruise so easily and extensively. Praise the Lord that leukemia has been ruled out. Pray for wisdom for the doctors to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Pray for his family and those that love him to have peace and comfort.

Ingrams - Terry asked us to pray for a friend of his from work to open his heart to God and for Terry to be a good influence.

Also Terry and Cindy will be leaving next Monday on the Guatemala Mission trip. Cindy has asked that we pray for travel safety but more specifically for open doors and hearts as well as barriers to be broken down. Pray also for their families as the kids will be with their parents.

Zacharys - Tiffany will be leaving for a week long work trip. Pray for travel safety and for the kids and Tim while she is away.


'Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications. In Your faithfulness answer me, and in Your righteousness' Psalm 143:1

Ladies' Nights

Hi ladies. Please take a moment to vote on the poll on the right side of the home screen. We want to see which two nights of the week are best for the most people so that we give everyone the opportunity to join us for fellowship. We have no agenda. We just like to get together, eat yummy food, and talk...all without the guys and the kids (unless you have a little baby that we need to see)! We want to see as many ladies at these gatherings so we can get to know each other better. Thanks!

Cindy

HOPE RESURRECTED: From the depths of our pain, Jesus brings forth hope.
We continue our look at five miracles of Jesus' ministry. This week, Jesus saves the Centurion's slave and brings the widows son back from the dead.
Read Luke 7:1-17
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke%207:1-17&version=NIV

These two, the Centurion and the widow, were from two completely different worlds. But, both experienced first hand a complete transformation from despair to hope. Our writer says "As we face life's challenging realities, we too need hope -- built on the solid foundation of faith in Jesus' authoritative power and compassionate heart."

Hope to see you Sunday.

Prayer Requests for the Week of October 9th

Ingrams - Pray for Cindy as she has finals this week.

McKenzies - Angie's dad was supposed to have prostate surgery tomorrow at St John's BA. His condition has worsened and they have moved him to ICU in Tulsa. Please pray for the drs to have wisdom how to treat him effectively and for comfort for he and his family.

DelPratts - Pray for their family as they grieve the loss of Omar's grandfather. Also please pray for Nikki's friend, Martina Cook, who is dealing some mental health issues and her family doesn't know where she is.

Tomberlins - Stacy's friend, Jennifer, was due to deliver any day and lost her baby on Sunday. Please pray for God's peace and comfort at this heartbreaking loss. Jennifer and her husband had been trying to have a baby for 5 years.

Terrills - Baby Jack is sick again with ear issues!! Please pray that the dr can determine what to do next to clear his ears up and prevent his frequent ear infections. Jack had tubes put in at 5 months so this shouldn't be happening.

Remkes - Amber will be leaving on Sunday to travel for a week on business. Pray for travel safety and that Davis will stay healthy.

'The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed; a stronghold in times of trouble'
Psalm 9:9

Prayer Requests for the Week of October 2nd

Matt McKenzie - Matt asked us to pray for his friend, Jim. Pray for his salvation and for healing

Angie McKenzie - Angie asked us to pray for her friend, Lauri, who is struggling through hard financial times.

Bendures - Brad is having to work a lot. Pray for less stress at work and at home.

Continue to pray for The Springs to see new families come worship and learn more about the Savior. Pray about our involvement as Homebuilders to encourage them and possibly send two couples one Sunday every other month to worship with them.

'Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we could think or ask, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory forever and ever! Amen!' Ephesians 3:20

Miracles, Signs & Wonders!

We are seeing miracles all around us. If you don't believe me, how about the fact that I made it to the age of 40 this week? Some would say that is a miracle. But seriously, think about everything we have seen together this year. This month we will take a look at Jesus' Top Five Miracles.

This Sunday, the first miracle: "Water Into Wine."

Read John 2:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%202&version=MSG

Bible giveaway trivia question:

How much wine (in number of bottles) was that?

How's your week going? Have you found your Nathaniel?

See you Sunday.

Snacks for October

October 2nd -

October 9th -Grizzles and Remkes

October 16th - Greens and Hassells

October 23rd - Elmores and Wheelers

October 30th - Folks and Dales

Prayer Requests for the week of Sept 25th

Thank you for praying often for the needs shared this week by fellow Homebuilders.

Terrills - They have had non stop sickness in their family so please pray for complete healing and good health this week.
Also Steven has started a new law firm. Pray for success and God to be glorified through Steven's new adventure.

Smiths - Sarah is struggling with her evening work schedule and not being home with Riley. Pray for peace for Sarah to be able to enjoy her new job and enjoy the time she has with her family.

Wheelers - Maggie was home with a sick baby this Sunday. Please pray for quick healing and for the rest of the family to be protected from illness.

Ingrams - Terry's friend, Matt, whose marriage we have been praying for, was in class this week. Praise the Lord. Also late last night, I heard from Cindy that Matt's wife, Angie, called Cindy out of the blue telling her that she had realized she needed the Lord in her life. There is great hope for Matt and Angie's marriage to be restored. Matt and Angie will be going to the Ingrams house tonight. Please pray for Terry and Cindy to have words of encouragement and good counsel for Matt and Angie. God is working BIG time in their lives so please, please be faithful to lift them up especially today and this week.

God is SO good ALL the time!!

'Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!'
Psalm 116:2

LOVE THAT VERSE!!!!

September Study Topic: ABUNDANT LIFE
This week, “GROW.”
We will look at the difficult but vital path to deeper faith.
Read: 2 Timothy 3:1-17
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy%203:1-17&version=MSG
Our lesson writer states: “Growth in faith is something that lasts a lifetime and includes such pursuits as connecting to others, studying God’s Word, and following positive examples of others.”

Praises and Prayer Requests for the Week of Sept 4th

PRAISES
Ingrams - Terry's dad is recovering from successful gallbladder surgery. Pray for continued healing.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Ingrams - Please continue to pray for Cindy's uncle, Kevin, as he undergoes intense chemo for an aggressive form of leukemia.

Bendures - Janna asks that we pray for their 4 year old, Aaron, and all the other kids that are now going to big church. Pray for them to be quiet and maybe even learn something!

Langleys - Court's mom had a biopsy on her leg to test for skin cancer. She has to wait 2 weeks for the results. Pray for negative results for cancer.

Dale - Amy's dad, Billy Brawner, will go back to the doctor this week to see if he can be released from his neck brace. Please pray that Billy's neck will have healed completely and will no longer have to wear his brace.

Elmores - Please continue to pray for our friends, the Stevensons, who are divorcing after 36 years of marriage.
Also Jim's nephew and his wife were in Atlanta on Saturday when the wife, Carrie, fell 18 ft off of a walkway between two buildings. She apparently tried to break her fall with her hands and shattered her left elbow and also broke a bone in her left forearm. She also broke her right wrist. She will see an orthopedic surgeon Wednesday morning to have surgery scheduled. Please pray for successful surgery and healing for Carrie. We are also praising God that she wasn't hurt more seriously and didn't hit her head from such a long fall.

Hassells - Debra asks us to pray for Jennifer Kerns who was in their former Life Group and is still an FBC member. Jennifer was attacked last week in the parking lot of the Brookside library. She has stab wounds and was very traumatized by the whole ordeal. Debra said it's been a rough year for their family between losing jobs, being transferred and now being a victim of crime. Please pray for healing both physically and emotionally for Jennifer and her family.

'Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be merciful to me and answer me.' Psalm 27:7

September Study Topic: ABUNDANT LIFE

From our study writers: "How do you strive for a spiritually balanced life? And what's the importance of doing so? We'll consider these questions and more as we examine four major areas of spiritual growth emphasized in the New Testament": Connect, Grow, Serve, and Go.
This week, "Connect".
Read:
1 Corinthians 12:12-31 and Psalm 133:1-3

Homebuilders Night

Announcing: A night of food, fellowship and fun. will have a sign up for food in class.

Event Details
----------------------
What: Homebuilders Night
Who: FBC Homebuilders
When: Sat Sep 24, 2011, 5-7 pm CDT
Where: Folks Home
7203 E. 67th St. Tulsa, OK 74133

Here are our current Care Groups for this new quarter:

Care Group 1
Scott & Krystal Grizzle
Derek & Courtney Langley
Chris & Allison Walden
Aaron & Lynsi Whitaker

Care Group 2
David & Amy Dale
Brad & Amber Remke
Jared & Sarah Smith
Chris & Katie Teel

Care Group 3
Tori & Trent Goodwin
Terry & Cindy Ingram
Todd & Susan Rogers
Jason & Rachel Smith
Steven & Allison Terrill

Care Group 4
Matt & Camden Bearden
Brad & Janna Bendure
John & Debra Hassell
Justin & Stacy Tomberlin

Care Group 5
Omar & Nicole Delpratt
Adam & Emily Green
Anthony & Ryean Miller
Brandon & Heather Risinger
Brandon & Maggie Wheeler

Care Group 6
Zach & Andrea Dolan
Pat & Lindsey Green
Jason & Ashlee Osborn
Tim & Tiffany Zachary

Announcements

1. For Sunday, September 4:
– Promotion Day in Sunday School, Elevate & LIFE Groups
– No CrossOver
– No PM Activities
2. Momentum: Building the Kingdom Debt Free is a study that will change the culture of giving in our country – starting with the church, spreading to the community, and ultimately impacting the world. Momentum is an initiative to completely revolutionize the ways we handle God’s money. It’s about creating a church filled with intense, passionate, sold out, cheerful givers. You will learn to truly be doers of the Word in the area of financial responsibility. The results will be rewarding, life-changing, and lasting. This will be a 13-week course facilitated by Bobby Hart and assisted by Group Leaders. The course costs $100, for all materials, per person or couple. The course is being offered at five different times during the week. You may sign up for the one that is most convenient for you and your family, by going to the church website, www.tulsafbc.org, or by signing up in the Detroit Entrance Sunday, August 28, September 4 or September 11.
DAY BEGINS, TIME & PLACE
Sunday September 11 5:00-7:00 p.m. FBC Fellowship Hall
(childcare provided)
Monday September 12 6:30-8:30 p.m. Baptist Children’s Home in
Owasso
(no childcare)
Tuesday September 13 6:30-8:30 p.m. Canyon Crossing in Sand
Springs
(no childcare)
Tuesday September 13 6:30-8:30 p.m. CenterCross-South Tulsa
Wednesday September 14 6:00-8:00 p.m. FBC Fellowship Hall
(childcare provided)

2. This Fall for Preschoolers, Children, Students & Adults:

(a) Wednesday, September 7
Mission Groups begin for Preschoolers and Children at 6:00 p.m.
(for meeting rooms, please look under the Preschool & Children’s Ministry
headings below)
Student C-Groups begin at 6:00 p.m. in The Underground
Adults will begin a study on Rob Bell’s book “Love Wins” at 6:00 p.m. in Kaffe
Bona
Adults will also be involved in the Momentum: Financial Peace study at 6:00
p.m. in the Fellowship Hall
Celebration Choir Rehearsal will be at 7:00 p.m. in the Choir Suite

(b) Sunday, September 11
Missions begin for Students (TAG) at 5:00 p.m. in The Underground
Preschool, Children’s & Youth Choirs begin at 6:00 p.m.
(for meeting rooms, please look under the Preschool & Children’s Ministry
headings below)
Adults will be involved in the Momentum: Financial Peace study at 5:00 p.m. in
the Fellowship Hall

3. The Pastor’s First Glance Class, two sessions, will begin on Sunday, September 11, and conclude on Sunday, September 18. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and would like to take a closer look at our fellowship of believers, please make your reservation for the September sessions by calling Deron Spoo ’s office, 918-594-5019, to make a reservation. The class will meet in the Church Parlor at 9:45 a.m. and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo .

4. A beginning American Sign Language Class will start on Wednesday, September 14, and continue through November 16. The class will meet in Room 700 South from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. There is no charge for the class, but you will be able to purchase a book if you need one. Emphasis will be on conversational sign language and religious signs. Everyone is welcome to join us in learning the third most used language in the United States – which you can put to immediate use with the Deaf members of our congregation. Plus, it’s just fun!

5. SIGN Choir begins on Wednesday night, September 14, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., in Room 707 South. Sign Choir is a great opportunity to begin learning and applying sign language. Songs will be worked through step by step. Later, there will be opportunities to perform the songs and you can decide if you want to do that or not; it's not required. One of the favorite activities is "Christmas Caroling" for deaf people. Many people that can hear have the opportunity to hear Christmas Carols throughout the Holiday Season. We want to bless persons who are deaf with the same opportunity – they love it! There will be other opportunities to minister with music throughout the year. Please join the group on the 14th.

6. The FBC Men’s Ministry has pre-purchased 100 tickets for the premiere of the movie Courageous. The movie will premiere Friday, September 30, 7:00 p.m., at the Cinemark 17 Theater (Hwy 169 and 71st Street ). Tickets are available to FBC members at a price of $6.00 for a package of two tickets. Tickets may be purchased in the Detroit Lobby beginning this Sunday, September 4.

7. Leading the Way Capital Campaign Update! As of the end of August, we have given $3,555,471 towards our pledges totaling $4,065,949. We are just $510,478 from reaching our goal.

8. Women’s Bible and Book Studies: Ladies, please look under the Women’s Ministry banner below for information concerning the five Bible and Book Studies being offered this Fall.

Calendar Highlights for September
4 Promotion Day in SS, Elevate & LIFE Groups
No PM Activities / No CrossOver
5 Labor Day / Church Offices & Caring Center Closed
6 First Steps Program Begins
7 Children’s Mission Groups Begin
Mission Committee Meeting
8-9 FBC Staff Calendar Planning Retreat
9 Student Ministry Overtime
11 First Glance Class #1
Bible Memory Awards & 1st Grade Bibles-AM Services
The Springs 2nd Anniversary Celebration
College Lunch
Evangelism Committee Meeting
TAG for Students Begins
Children’s & Youth Choirs Begin
Momentum: Financial Peace University Begins
13 Caring Center & Community Ministries Committee Meeting
14 DivorceCare Begins
15 Finance Committee Meeting
18 First Glance Class #2
VIP Orientation
WMU Council Meeting
19 Deacons’ Meeting
21 Encore for Senior Adults Begins
21 & 28 Stephen Ministry Overview/Interviews
25 Momentum Class #2

Children’s Ministry
1. Wednesday, September 7, Mission Groups begin for all boys and girls, Grades 1-6
a) Girls, Grades 1-6, in Girls in Action will meet in Room 329 North
b) Boys, Grades 1-6, in Royal Ambassadors will meet in Room 319 North

2. Sunday, September 11, Choirs begin for all boys and girls, Grade 1-6
a) Grades 1 & 2 boys and girls will meet in Room 304 North
b) Grades 3 & 4 boys and girls will meet in Room 329 North
c) Grades 5 & 6 boys and girls will meet in Room 327 North
d) Handchimes for Grades 1-6 will meet in Room 310North

Missions
FBC’s Mission Action Project for September focuses on Operation Christmas Child: Samaritan’s Purse. In 1993, the first shoe box gifts were collected for young war survivors in Bosnia , and since then, over 70 million gift-filled boxes have been distributed to children in over 100 countries. Every box represents a precious child of God in need of a Savior. In addition to gifts, each box contains a Gospel booklet in the child’s own language. Through the follow-up discipleship program, over 2 million boys and girls have accepted Christ. Here is how you can help:
Empty shoe boxes, rubber bands, and labels (colored printed labels available online also) will be available behind the Security Guard’s desk, in front of the Adult Library and Children’s Library, in the Detroit Tower lobby, and in the Student Center lobby.
Label each box as to boy or girl and age—2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Tape the label to the top of the box.
Fill the box with a variety of items that will bring delight to a child! A detailed list is available with the boxes. Place the provided rubber bands around the filled box and bring them to the mission action collection bins by the Security Guard’s desk in the Detroit Entrance or in the foyer of the South Education Building .
Wonderful volunteers will wrap our gifts, so no wrapping is required. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift! The deadline for item collection will be Sunday, November 6. For more information, contact Maribeth Dean at 481-5834 or check out www.samaritanspurse.org!

Preschool Ministry
1. Wednesday, September 7, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., our Mission Groups for Preschoolers will begin:
a) Babies thru 1’s will meet in Room 111 North (Ground Floor)
b) Preschool 2's will meet in Room 233 North
c) Preschool 3's will meet in Room 234 North
d) Pre-Kindergarten will meet in Room 202 North
e) Kindergarten will meet in Room 205 North

2. Sunday, September 11, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., our Preschool Choirs will begin:
a) Babies thru 1’s will meet Room 111 North (Ground Floor)
b) Preschool 2's will meet in Room 233 North
c) Preschool 3's will meet in Room 234 North
d) Pre-Kindergarten will meet in Room 204 North
e) Kindergarten will meet in Room 207 North

Women’s Ministry
There are five Bible and Book Studies, offered at six different times, for women this Fall. Prices vary from $12 to $17 and scholarships are available. Childcare will be offered on all studies except the DownPour study. For childcare reservations, please contact Cindy Seay in the Preschool Ministry Office, 918-594-5028, or email cseay@tulafbc.org. For additional information about the studies, please contact individuals leading the study.
On September 7 – “Loved by God”, by Liz Curtis Higgs, will be held every Wednesday, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., beginning September 7. This seven week course will be led by Jill Willey, with possibly a second study, in Room 410 North. Does the Lord love us when we fail him? When we run in the wrong direction? Is God’s love enough? Liz answers those vital questions in a unique, heart-changing way, bringing to life the ancient stories of Jacob and Leah for 21st Century women. Her research is thorough and her style is appropriate for women at all ages and stages. Liz has one goal in mind: reaching women’s hearts with God’s life-changing love. For more information, please email jilwilley@aol.com.
On September 7 – “A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place ”, by Beth Moore, will be held every Wednesday, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., beginning September 7. This eleven week course will be led by Pam Rader in Room 410 North. The study is taken primarily from the Old Testament book of Exodus and it takes you on a journey into why God would choose to live in a wilderness tabernacle made by human hands. You will explore the parallels between the physical tabernacle and the tabernacle of the human heart in this fascinating account of the building of the tabernacle, the significance of its intricate design, its pivotal role in God's eternal plan, and its variety of meanings for women today. For more information, please email pkrader@tulsaconnect.com.
On September 8 – “DownPour, He Will Come to Us Like the Rain”, by James MacDonald, will be held every Thursday, 12:00 Noon to 1:00 p.m., beginning September 8. This twelve week course will meet Room 410 North. This study can provide an absolute soaking of God’s Spirit for your walk with Him. Maybe you are experiencing a season where your relationship with God seems empty and dry. Does your heart long for an encounter with God that will refresh your love for Him and saturate you with more joy than anything you have known before? You can experience spiritual renewal and victory. Consider your dry spell over and bring on the downpour. There is no childcare for this study.
On September 14 – “Bravehearts”, by Sharon Hersh, will be held every Wednesday, 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., beginning September 14. This eleven week course will be led by Dell Coutant in the new Small Conference Room (former bride’s room) off the Detroit Entrance. Within every woman is the desire for extraordinary relationships. There is the craving for intimacy and interconnectedness, companionship and camaraderie. Yet most women eventually begin to wonder if they want too much. What is behind this yearning? Does it have a purpose? In this study, you will see how your deepest longings can lead you to rich relationships and give you the courage to love with abandon. For more information, please email dellanna@aol.com.
On September 20 – “Always True: God's Promises When Life Is Hard“, by James MacDonald, will be held every Tuesday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., starting September 20. This seven week course will be led by Susan Jacobs at CenterCross Church at 61st & Mingo. The study will lead to an understanding of the nature of God’s promises, which are always true whether in good times or during trials in the believer’s life. During an extended season of personal crises in his life, James discovered that God’s promises are always true and that we can trust God to be faithful to His word no matter what we face. These universal promises are based on biblical truths and principles that will provide hope to all believers who face hardship. For more information, please email jsjacobs53@msn.com.

Snacks for September

September 4th - Elmore and Remke

September 11th- Langley and Grizzle

September 18th - Folks and Dale

September 25th - Osborns and Hassells

Praises and Prayer Requests for the Week of August 28th

PRAISES

Matt Shoush (David and Amy Dale's friend) is free of oxygen for the first time in 4 years. Continue to pray for Matt as he heals from a double lung transplant.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Ingrams - Terry's dad is having his gallbladder removed Wednesday morning at 8 am at Hillcrest. He expects to be home by 2.
Cindy's Uncle Kevin is going through intense chemo for three weeks for an aggressive form of leukemia.

Elmores - We learned on Sunday night that some very dear friends, that have been married 36 years, are getting a divorce. We've been friends almost 30 years and our kids grew up together. John told Debbie, out of the blue a couple of weeks ago, that he didn't love her anymore and was done with their marriage. He refuses any counseling and will be moving out of their house on Thursday. I will be driving to Edmond on Friday to be with Debbie, who is visiting their youngest daughter. Please pray for the Stevensons and for me as I try to comfort my friend who is stunned, scared and broken hearted!

'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' Psalm 34:18

Praises and Prayer Requests for the Week of August 21

PRAISES

Allison and baby Luke Walden are now home from the hospital and doing well. We'll start meals for them next week.

Sarah Smith is now employed!!

Janna Bendure's broken finger will now bend. Pray it continues to heal completely.

Matt Shoush (friend of David and Amy Dale) is doing amazingly well from his double lung transplant. Pray for continued healing and for his brother and sister as they care for him.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Ingrams - Terry's dad, Randy, was taken by ambulance to Hillcrest overnight for severe pain. They are running tests to try to find out what the problem is. They think it might be his gall bladder. Cindy's Uncle Kevin was diagnosed with leukemia late last week. Please pray for effective treatment and peace for Kevin and the family as they go through this journey. Also Cindy's classes at Midwestern Seminary have begun. She will be getting her degree online so there are many adjustments for their family. Pray for Cindy to have strength and wisdom to balance life and also pray for Terry and the children as they adjust to this change.

Zacharys - Tiffany's brother, TJ, does not think he got the teaching job he interviewed for last week. Please pray for God's intervention for him to get a job soon and that TJ will have peace and perseverence as he is getting very frustrated.

Remkes - Amber is traveling all week for work. Pray for safety in her travel and for things to go smoothly at home. Pray for Brad and Davis to have a great time together while Amber is away.

Rogers - Susan continues to recover from shoulder surgery with several hours of physical therapy daily. Pray for minimal pain and for her to regain full use of that shoulder. Pray for her family to have patience and understanding while she is recovering.

'This is the confidence we have in approaching God; that if we ask anything according to His will, he hears us.' 1 John 5:14

Praises and Prayer Requests for the week of August 14th

PRAISES

Waldens - Baby Luke Connor Walden was born on Monday afternoon. Mommy and baby are doing great!

PRAYER REQUESTS

Smiths - Sarah's job hunt continues. Pray for an upcoming interview this week.

Bendures - Janna asked us to continue to pray for her broken finger to heal properly and bend correctly.

Dales - Their friend, Matt Shoush, received a double lung transplant Saturday. Please pray for healing and for Matt's sister, Katie, as she will be caring for him during his recovery.

'Bear one another's burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ.' Galations 6:2

August Study Topic: DO UNTO OTHERS
The past couple of months we have been looking at the freedom of seeing God as the owner of everything (June) and that freedom and effect on our lives (July). When we open our hands to let go of our things, our hands are free to serve as God calls us (August). The lesson writers for this month say "Our society promotes individualism and encourages us to look out for number one. But the Bible teaches us to put others first. In this unit, we’ll study practical ways to do this by looking at some of the “one another” passages in the New Testament."
Following last week’s great discussion on Love, this week, we will discuss Forgiveness. This can be a very difficult subject. A good book I can recommend on the topic is “Forgive and Forget” by Lewis B. Smedes.
Our study will cover theses three points:
1. Christ Is the Example (Colossians 3:12-13)
2. Love Is the Motive (Philemon 8-16)
3. Restoration Is the Goal (Philemon 17-22)
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. Hope to see you Sunday. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

ANNOUNCEMENTS

This Saturday is our Back to School event at Anderson Elementary! If you didn't sign up to come and still want to, by all means please come. Children are welcomed and it will be a great opportunity to have them be blessed to help other children. Be at Anderson Elementary a little before 2 and we'll give out backpacks, jeans and school supplies until 5. If you have any questions, call Brenda at 918-760-6505.
Anderson Elementary (K-5)
1921 East 29 Street North
Tulsa Oklahoma 74110

For Sunday, August 14:
– Regular Morning Schedule
– Pastor’s First Glance Class #2 at 9:45 a.m.
– Deadline to sign up for the Annual Men’s Retreat, August 19 & 20
– CrossOver at 5:00 p.m.
– No Other PM Activities on Sundays in August

MEN: The deadline is this Sunday! FBC’s Annual Men’s Retreat will be held at Tulakogee on August 19 & 20. The theme, “Goin’ Deep into the Depths of God”, is inspired by I Corinthians 2:10 and Dr. Calvin Miller will be our featured speaker and Ken Holland will be the musician. There will also be both golf and fishing offered. Sign-up by going online at www.tulsafbc.org or at the table set up in the Detroit Entrance this Sunday.

The Pastor’s First Glance Class concludes this Sunday, August 14. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and would like to take a closer look at our fellowship of believers, this class is for you. The class will meet in the Church Parlor at 9:45 a.m. and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo.

Community Improvement Day is coming up on Saturday, August 27. Our church family will be serving in multiple locations throughout Tulsa during the morning and afternoon. Projects will include improving school campuses, landscaping, painting, cleaning, covering graffiti, picking up trash, and other acts of kindness. We strongly encourage parents and children to serve together and there will be a number of “family friendly” projects for parents with children. For reservations, sign up in your Adult LIFE Groups or call the Community Ministries Office at 918- 594-5073.

LADIES: Please look under Women’s Ministry below for information concerning the four Bible and Book Studies being offered this Fall.

Wednesday Nights in August at FBCT:
a) Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, have Team Kid in Room 207 North – Team Kid ends August 31
b) Children, Grades 1-6, have Team Kid in Room 319 North – Team Kid ends August 31
c) Students have Ichthus in The Student Underground – Ichthus ends August 24
d) Adults have The Bible in 90 Days program in Kaffe Bona – This program ends August 31

Calendar Highlights for August
No Sunday Evening Activities in August – except for the
Leaders’ One Day Training Event on August 28, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
17 Children’s Summer Day Camp Ends
18 Finance Committee Meeting
19-20 FBC’s Men’s Retreat at Tulakogee
21 Preschool Worship – Big Church Event
22 Deacons’ Meeting
24 WMU Council Meeting
Student Ichthus Ends
25 First Steps Program’s Open House
27 Community Improvement Day, 9 am to 3 pm
28 FBC’s Leaders’ One Day Training Event for all LIFE, Elevate &
Sunday School Leaders
31 Preschool & Children’s TeamKid Ends
Student C-Groups’ Kick-Off Night

Missions
FBC’s August Mission Action Project helps support our Prayer Shawl & Lap Quilt Ministry. This wonderful ministry supplies handmade shawls and quilts to our members, going through difficult periods in their lives, by providing them with a physical symbol of God’s love which they can wrap themselves in or touch to feel His presence. You can help restock the supplies needed by those who volunteer in this ministry. A prayer shawl requires 500 yards, usually 5 large skeins of the same color, of “heavy” yarn. The ministry also needs quilt batting, “fat quarters”, remnants, and/or 2 yard lengths of 100% cotton fabric for quilt backing. These items may be placed in the Mission Action containers which are located around the church. Beginners and new volunteers to the ministry are always welcomed. For more information, please contact Sharon McDaniel at 918-459-4968.

Preschool Ministry
In August:
a) The Big Church Event, for families with Pre-K & Kindergarten children, will be held on Sunday, August 21, from 12:00 Noon to 1:30 p.m. Parents, this will be an introduction to Preschool Worship, Big Church and an orientation for the First Grade Sunday School. Lunch will be served in Fellowship Hall at noon and there will be games in the Student Center. For reservations, please call the Preschool Ministries Office, 918-594-5028, by Thursday, August 18.
b) Summer Day Camp is for all boys and girls who have completed Kindergarten through Grade 6. Summer Day Camp will end on Wednesday, August 17.
c) Wednesday nights are for TEAM KID, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. All boys and girls, 3’s through Pre-K, will meet in Room 207 North. TeamKid will end on Wednesday, August 31.

Women’s Ministry
There are four Bible and Book Studies being offered to women this Fall. Prices vary from $12 to $17 and scholarships are available. Childcare will be offered on all studies except the DownPour study. For childcare reservations, please contact Cindy Seay in the Preschool Ministry Office, 918-594-5028. For additional information about the studies, please contact individuals leading the study.
a) “Loved by God”, by Liz Curtis Higgs, will be held every Wednesday, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., beginning September 7. This seven week course will be led by Jill Willey, with possibly a second study, in Room 410 North. Does the Lord love us when we fail him? When we run in the wrong direction? Is God’s love enough? Liz answers those vital questions in a unique, heart-changing way, bringing to life the ancient stories of Jacob and Leah for 21st Century women. Her research is thorough and her style is appropriate for women at all ages and stages. Liz has one goal in mind: reaching women’s hearts with God’s life-changing love. For more information, please email jilwilley@aol.com.
b) “A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place”, by Beth Moore, will be held every Wednesday, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., beginning September 7. This eleven week course will be led by Pam Rader in Room 410 North. The study is taken primarily from the Old Testament book of Exodus and it takes you on a journey into why God would choose to live in a wilderness tabernacle made by human hands. You will explore the parallels between the physical tabernacle and the tabernacle of the human heart in this fascinating account of the building of the tabernacle, the significance of its intricate design, its pivotal role in God's eternal plan, and its variety of meanings for women today. For more information, please email pkrader@tulsaconnect.com.
c) “DownPour, He Will Come to Us Like the Rain”, by James MacDonald, will be held every Thursday, 12:00 Noon to 1:00 p.m., beginning September 8. This twelve week course will be led by Terry Moore in Room 410 North. This study can provide an absolute soaking of God’s Spirit for your walk with Him. Maybe you are experiencing a season where your relationship with God seems empty and dry. Does your heart long for an encounter with God that will refresh your love for Him and saturate you with more joy than anything you have known before? You can experience spiritual renewal and victory. Consider your dry spell over and bring on the downpour. For more information, please email tessamoore27@hotmail.com. There is no childcare for this study.
d) “Always True: God's Promises When Life Is Hard“, by James MacDonald, will be held every Tuesday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., starting September 20. This seven week course will be led by Susan Jacobs at CenterCross Church at 61st & Mingo. The study will lead to an understanding of the nature of God’s promises, which are always true whether in good times or during trials in the believer’s life. During an extended season of personal crises in his life, James discovered that God’s promises are always true and that we can trust God to be faithful to His word no matter what we face. These universal promises are based on biblical truths and principles that will provide hope to all believers who face hardship. For more information, please email jsjacobs53@msn.com.

Praises/Prayer Requests for the week of August 7th

'For in the day of trouble, He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.'
Psalm 27:5

PRAISES

Zacharys - They lost their power for several hours Saturday night and a kind neighbor, gave them a power cord from his house until their power was restored.

Elmores - Our nephew, Michael, has detoxed from whatever drug he was on and has secured a full time job with benefits back home in Arkansas. He has begun to put a little weight back on and is determined to get his life back on track. We are so very grateful for God's mercy and protection for Michael during this very scary time.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Rogers - Susan is scheduled to have surgery on her shoulder on August 19th. She cannot be on any kind of pain meds until the surgery. She said the dr wants it to be inflammed when he does the surgery so he'll know exactly what to repair (oww!!!) Pray that the pain will be manageable until then and that the surgery will be a complete success.

Ingrams - Terry is trying to sell his truck. Please pray for a buyer soon.

Terrills - Allison and Steven have asked to pray for Mike Huckaby, a friend's step-dad, who suffered severe chemical burns to his eyes, nose, mouth, throat and lungs. He is in in ICU and is not doing well. Pray for comfort for Mike and his family and for God's mercy on him.

Snacks for August

August 7th - Terrills and Goodwins

August 14th - Grizzles and Greens

August 21st - Zacharys and Ingrams

August 28th - Hassells and Remkes

Prayer Requests for the Week of July 31st

'The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; His ears are open to their cries for help.' Psalm 34:15

Janna Bendure - Janna broke her finger. Please pray it will heal correctly and quickly!

Grant & Alicia Schwabe - Please pray for them to find a new owner/renter for their old house.

Susan Rogers - Susan is scheduled to have surgery to repair her shoulder on August 19th. She cannot take any more pain medicine between now and then. She had been having to double up on her meds because the pain has been so bad. Please pray for God's divine intervention to ease her pain, allow her to be able to sleep and to have peace and comfort as she waits for the surgery date.

Please pray for the President and our national leaders to make reasonable, responsible decisions for the good of our nation instead of for their own political careers.

Also please pray for some relief to this unbelivable heat and for the blessing of some rain.

All-Church Information

1. For Sunday, July 31:
– Regular Morning Schedule
– CrossOver at 5:00 p.m.
– Student Ministry House Party at 6:00 p.m.
– No Other PM Activities

2. The next First Glance Class starts on Sunday, August 7, and concludes on Sunday, August 14. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and would like to take a closer look at our fellowship of believers, please make your reservation for the July sessions by calling Deron Spoo’s office, 918-594-5019, to make a reservation. The class will meet in the Church Parlor at 9:45 a.m. and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo .

3. The annual Back-to-School Style Show & Brunch, benefitting the Owasso Baptist Children’s Home, will be held on Saturday, August 6, at the Renaissance Hotel. Tickets are $17 per person for this event which starts at 10:30 a.m. For more information, please call Janice Turner at 918-970-6990.

4. Mission Trip Deadline! The final date to turn in deposits and applications for the Guatemala Mission Trip in October will be next Sunday, August 7. If you would like to help with Vacation Bible School, Happy Feet and Medical Clinics, please return the paperwork to Bryan Intemann, or to the Church Office in the Detroit Tower, by the August 7.

5. Calling All Men: August 19 & 20 will be this year’s Annual Men’s Retreat at Tulakogee. The theme, “Goin’ Deep into the Depths of God”, is inspired by I Corinthians 2:10. Dr. Calvin Miller will be our featured speaker and Ken Holland will be the musician. There will also be both golf and fishing offered. For more information, or to register, please contact Kristin White at 918-594-5073, or email kwhite@tulsafbc.org.

6. Wednesday Nights at FBCT:
a) Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, have Team Kid in Room 207 North
b) Children, Grades 1-6, have Team Kid in Room 319 North
c) Students have Ichthus in The Student Underground
d) Adults have The Bible in 90 Days program in Kaffe Bona

Missions

This Sunday is the last Sunday for you to help with our School Supply Stock-Up, the July Mission Action Project! Since school starts in August, we will be collecting school supplies in July. Please try to bring these items to the church as soon as possible, so that we can have them ready for distribution before school starts. You can bring notebook paper, spirals, crayons, pencils, pens and boxes of tissues. These much needed and much appreciated supplies are distributed to children in our church’s adoption of some area elementary schools. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 918-481-5834.

Free to Be . . .
A LOVING SERVANT
Through freedom in Christ, we have the opportunity to serve.
Read Galatians 5:13–6:10
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:13–6:10&version=NIV

Prayer Requests for 7/24

Pray for these needs and concerns this week:
Nathan Chasteen -- Job/School
Matt Bearden -- Job
Sarah Smith -- Job
Finn -- Having his first cavity filled
Aaron Whitaker -- completing basic training

ANNOUNCEMENTS

All-Church Information
1. For Sunday, July 24:
– Regular Morning Schedule
– Deron’s Bible available to sign for the Time Capsule
– Quarterly Business Meeting at 5:15 p.m.
– 30th Anniversary Reception for Larry Merideth at 6:00 p.m.

2. Time Capsule Update! As many of you already know, Deron is preparing a new Time Capsule to go back into the cornerstone of the church just prior to completion of the renovation. He plans to include the Bible he has been preaching from for the past two or three years in that capsule. He has made this Bible available for church members to circle their favorite Scripture and sign their name. Some of you have already availed yourself of this opportunity. This Bible will be available in the Detroit Entrance Foyer this Sunday morning, July 24, if you care to add your Scripture and name into this Bible before it goes permanently into the Time Capsule later this summer.

3. The next August sessions of the Pastor’s First Glance Class will be held on Sunday, August 7 & 14. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and would like to take a closer look at our fellowship of believers, please make your reservation for the July sessions by calling Deron Spoo’s office, 918-594-5019, to make a reservation. The class will meet in the Church Parlor at 9:45 a.m. and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo.

4. Caring Center Needs: Our Caring center is in desperate need of men’s summer t-shirts and short sleeve shirts in all sizes, especially big ones (XXL and bigger). The storage tubs at the Caring Center are empty and the racks are REALLY getting sparse. This excessive hot weather is quickly draining the supplies. Also remember that there is a need for all kinds of hygiene items: toothbrushes, razors, deodorant and toilet paper. The Caring Center can use the little travel size stuff left over from your stays at hotels and motels.

5. The annual Back-to-School Style Show & Brunch, benefitting the Owasso Baptist Children’s Home, will be held on Saturday, August 6, at the Renaissance Hotel. Tickets are $17 per person for this event which starts at 10:30 a.m. For more information, please call Janice Turner at 918-970-6990.

6. Calling All Men: Our Annual Men’s Retreat will be held on August 19 & 20 at Tulakogee. For more information, see the blog, or to register, please contact Kristin White at 918-594-5073, or email kwhite@tulsafbc.org.

6. Wednesday Nights at FBCT:
a) Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, have Team Kid in Room 207 North
b) Children, Grades 1-6, have Team Kid in Room 319 North
c) Students have Ichthus in The Student Underground
d) Adults have The Bible in 90 Days program in Kaffe Bona

Calendar Highlights for July & August
24 FBC Quarterly Business Meeting at 5:15 pm
Larry Merideth’s 30th Anniversary Reception at 6 pm
25 Summer Fun Day for K-2nd Grade
25-28 VBS at CenterCross
30 Back-to-School Event at Central Fine Arts
31 No PM Activities
August
No Sunday Evening Activities in August – except for the
Leadership Training on August 28
1-3 1st & 2nd Grades’ Day Camp at Tulakogee
3 7th Grade Night at Ichthus
5 Encore: Serendipity
5-6 Middle School Retreat
7 Communion Service AM
First Glance Class #1 (#2 on 8/14)
Children’s New Christian Class
9 Caring Center & Community Ministries Committee Meeting
Student High School Lake Day
10 Mission Committee Meeting
13 Back-to-School Event at Local Schools
17 Children’s Day Camp Ends
18 Finance Committee Meeting
19-20 FBC’s Men’s Retreat at Tulakogee
21 Preschool Worship – Big Church Event
22 Deacons’ Meeting
24 WMU Council Meeting
Student Ichthus Ends
25 First Steps Program’s Open House
27 Community Care Night
28 FBC’s Leadership Training Conference for all LIFE, Elevate &
Sunday School Leaders
31 Preschool & Children’s TeamKid Ends
Student C-Groups’ Kick-Off Night

Wednesday Night Meal for July 27
Chicken Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Stewed Tomatoes, Rolls and Lemon Pudding Parfait

Missions
Help us with FBC’s Mission Action Project for July! School Supply Stock-Up – Since school starts in August, we will be collecting school supplies in July. Please try to bring these items to the church early in July so that we can have them ready for distribution before school starts. You can bring notebook paper, spirals, crayons, pencils, pens and boxes of tissues. These much needed and much appreciated supplies are distributed to children in our church’s adoption of some area elementary schools. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 918-481-5834.

Preschool Ministry
Parents:
a) Wednesday nights are for TEAM KID, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. All boys and girls, 3’s through Pre-K, will meet in Room 207 North.
b) Summer Day Camp is for all boys and girls who have completed Kindergarten through Grade 6. For more information, go to our website, www.tulsafbc.org.

Prayer requests for 7/17/11

Brad Bendure's mom, Roberta is having problems with dizziness. She has had 2 MRI's so far. Please pray for a diagnosis soon and then also for treatment and healing.

Adam & Emily Green are traveling this week so please pray for safe travels. We are also praising our Lord that Adam is doing great!

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Free to be . . .
A CHILD OF GOD
God wants you to be a part of his family.
Read Galatians 4
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%204&version=NIV

Back-to-School

Please put this date on your calendar and plan to volunteer during our annual FBCT Back-to-School drive. Homebuilders and Urban Life have been asked to assist families at Anderson Elementary again this year. We will be helping the kids pick out backpacks, clothes, and school supplies, working at registration, manning the popcorn machines, and serving lemonade and sno-cones. It will be a blessing and a lot of fun. Your kids are welcome to come along, too. We will be passing around a sign-up sheet. Please let us know if you want to participate. You do not need to stay the entire time.
Saturday, August 13th– 2:00p-5:00p
Anderson Elementary
1921 East 29 Street North
Tulsa Oklahoma 74110

FREE TO BE . . .
SAVED BY GRACE
The endless struggle between trying to earn salvation and accepting it.

Read Galatians 3:1-26
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:1-26&version=MSG

Do you remember the book, “Life’s Little Instruction Book?" Here are some sample entries from the self-titled web-site:
1. Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen every day.
2. Be brave. Even if you're not, pretend to be. No one can tell the difference.
3. Think big thoughts, but relish small pleasures.
4. Overtip breakfast waitresses.
5. Never deprive someone of hope; it might be all they have.
6. Never resist a generous impulse.
7. Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
8. Never go to bed with dirty dishes in the sink.
9. Leave everything a little better than you found it.
10. Call your mother.
How about a bucket list? Maybe you have one. Turning a milestone this year and I find my self at times reviewing my progress, and accomplishments. This type of lifestyle can be obsessive-compulsive. Or lesson writer says:
“We tend to view our walk with Christ as a series of religious tasks to perform, such as praying, reading the Bible, tithing, and serving in ministry. When we can check things off our spiritual to-do list, we feel like we’re being good Christians. This task-oriented approach to Christianity is legalism, and it’s not good.” This week we will take a look at Paul’s take on legalism.

1. Our Legalistic Tendencies (Galatians 3:1-3)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:1-3&version=MSG


2. Works Don’t Set Us Free (Galatians 3:10-14)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:10-14&version=MSG


3. Resting in Faith (Galatians 3:19-26)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:19-26&version=MSG


We still have a lot of legalisms, in our congregation, let alone the Southern Baptists Convention. Our lesson writer says: “No wonder we have such a hard time accepting that our relationship with God isn’t performance-based. When we understand that, through God’s grace, our salvation is based on faith in Him alone and we can’t do anything to earn or lose it, we’re set free from the checklists and works that enslave us.”
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. Hope to see you Sunday. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Men's Retreat

Transformed . . . by the renewing of your mind.
2011 FBC Tulsa Men’s Retreat
Date: Friday and Saturday, August 19 and 20
Location: Tulakogee Conference Center on beautiful Lake Fort Gibson near Wagoner, Oklahoma.
Featured Speaker: Dr. Calvin Miller. Author, Pastor, Professor, poet, storyteller, artist and friend, Dr. Miller is no stranger to FBC. He served as the beloved interim Pastor at FBC for a year and a half and is the mentor of our Pastor, Deron Spoo. Calvin is the author of over 40 books and is in great demand as a preacher and guest lecturer. We are extremely happy and fortunate to have Dr. Miller as our featured speaker. He will speak on the theme of “Into The Depths of God.”
Featured Musician: Ken Holland. Ken is Minister of Worship and Music at FBC Cabot, Arkansas. He is a native Tulsan and is a writer, composer, instrumentalist and vocalist.
Theme: Transformed. The theme is taken from Romans 12:2 and reminds us of God’s ultimate goal – our transformation into the image of Christ.
Lodging: Warren C. Hultgren Lodge. This new Lodge features motel type accommodations including private bath, individual beds for up to four per room, linens and towels. Each room has a beautiful view of Lake Fort Gibson. Participants are encouraged to plan rooming arrangements with Life Group friends.
Cost: $65 person for triple/quad occupancy, $70 double occupancy. A limited number of single occupancy rooms are available for $85. Cost includes three meals including opening night steak dinner.
Registration: Available online at www.tulsafbc.org. Brochures will be mailed to homes. Individuals may register and pay by mail, online, or at the display tables in the church in late July through mid-August. Registration deadline is Sunday, August 14.
Recreation:
Golf - Arrangements have been made to play at Pryor Creek Golf Course in nearby Pryor on Friday morning. Tee times will be announced at a later date. Payment is made at the course.
Fishing - Fishermen are encouraged to come early and enjoy a day on the lake. Bring your boat or fish from the dock available on site.
Schedule: Check in begins at 4:00 pm. Steak dinner begins at 6:00 pm. Opening session will begin after dinner. Two sessions will be held Saturday morning. The lunch meal will conclude the retreat.
Directions: Directions are clearly marked on the highway and instructions will be available on the printed brochure and online.

Prayer Requests for the Week of July 3rd

Cindy Ingram - Cindy's brother, Brett, took some of the senior boys camping and offroading in Colorado this week. Please pray for safety and fun while they are there and also on the trip home.

Amber Remke - Amber asked us to pray for her friends, the King family. The husband died unexpectedly and they have 2 young children. Please pray for comfort for this family during this time of deep grief and loss.

Andrea Dolan - One of her friends died this week leaving behind a husband and 2 young sons. Pray for the Ketcher family as they struggle with the loss. Husband's name is Jessie.
Also Andrea asked that we pray for her boss' nephew, Jessie Schoenhofer, who had a motorcycle wreck this weekend. He has broken three vertebrae in his neck, broke his femur and a few ribs. He also has a collapsed lung so is on a ventilator. Please lift Jessie and his family to the Lord for peace, comfort and healing.

Allison Walden - Allison has six weeks left before baby 'W' is born. Please pray for her to have strength, be able to sleep and stay cool in this unbearable heat these last couple of weeks. Pray for their baby boy to continue to grow healthy and strong before his birth in August. Allison also asked us to pray for her sister in law who's dog has run away. Pray she will find him soon.

Scott Grizzle - Scott is trying to make a decision soon whether to run for a soon to be open City Council seat. Pray he'll have clear direction from the Lord on what His will is for him.

Camden Bearden - Camden went back to work last week after being on maternity leave only to find out on Friday that her position is being eliminated. Pray for Camden as she seeks His direction in His will for her life and her job situation.

David Dale - David has a co worker, Jordan Simon, who was critically injured in a motorcycle accident. Please pray for Jordan's healing and especially his salvation.

Elmores - Please pray for Jim's youngest nephew, Michael Briggs, as he struggles to detox from a drug addiction. Jim's sister and Michael's mom, Mary, went to Denver to bring him back to Arkansas and he was in very bad shape when she arrived. It took a week before they could even attempt the trip home. He is very gradually improving a little each day and they hope to get him into a doctor this week. Pray this will be a wakeup call for Michael that he needs to get back to walking with the Lord and turn away from this destructive behavior. Pray for Mary, too, as she seeks to help him find the professional help that he needs.

Thank you, Homebuilders, for being such faithful prayer warriors for each other and sharing each others burdens.

'We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort that God gives us.' 2 Corinthians 1:7

Free to Be . . .
Following last month’s look at materialism (and the chains that come with that to weigh us down), this month we will be taking a look at freedom. Of course. The name of this week’s study is “Selfless: Freedom in Christ leaves no room for selfishness.”
Read:
Philippians 3:17-21; 2 Peter 2:4-22
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%203:17-21;%202%20Peter%202:4-22&version=NIV
(Yes, NIV, published by Zondervan!)
Do you struggle with entitlement? How about people around you? People standing in line at the check-out counter? Our lesson writer says: “focusing on freedom can easily turn into a self-indulgent focus on ‘my rights.’ In this week’s session, we’ll look at what Peter and Paul wrote about the difference between self-indulgent ‘freedom’ and the personal rights of people truly free in Christ.”
1. Combatting Entitlement (2 Peter 2:10b-14)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Peter%202:10b-14&version=NIV
2. A Challenge to Change (2 Peter 2:15-19)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Peter%202:15-19&version=NIV
3. Freedom Exemplified (Philippians 3:17-21)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%203:17-21&version=NIV
In exercising our freedom, we will be faced will choices. Our lesson writer states: “Choosing the kingdom is at odds with our nature. It means allowing someone else to rule and lead our lives. It requires abandoning our will and control. But we do it because we know there’s a better way, and we know we can make a difference. Following Christ gives us a desire to change our ways and for the gospel to be known. And a life lived with that goal in mind is a life lived freely in Christ.”
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Men’s Retreat

SAVE THE DATE! FBCT Annual Men’s Retreat will be August 19th and 20th at Camp Tulakogee. More details to follow next week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. For Sunday, July 3:
– Regular Morning Schedule
– First Glance Class #1 at 9:45 a.m.
– All-Church Picnic at the Hillenburgs’ in Broken Arrow at 6:00 p.m.
– No CrossOver or other regularly scheduled PM activities

2. The First Glance Class meets this Sunday, July 3, and concludes on Sunday, July 10. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and would like to take a closer look at our fellowship of believers, please make your reservation for the July class by calling Deron Spoo ’s office, 918-594-5019, to make a reservation. The sessions will meet in the Church Parlor at 9:45 a.m. and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo .

3. Our Annual All Church Picnic will be held this Sunday night, July 3, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at the Hillenburgs in Broken Arrow . The directions are:
a) from Tulsa via the Broken Arrow Expressway (Highway 51) –
Take the BA Expressway East to the Lynn Lane exit (S 177th E Ave).
Take the Lynn Lane exit and go South on Lynn Lane for approximately 4 ½ miles.
Look for the picnic area on the right (West) side of the road.
The location is approximately 116th and Lynne Lane .
b) from Tulsa via the Creek Turnpike South Loop –
Take the South Loop East to the 161st / Elm Street exit. There will be a Wal-Mart at this exit.
Take the Elm Street exit and go South on 161st/Elm Street to 121st / Tucson .
Turn left (East) on Tucson and go approximately 1 mile to Lynne Lane/9th Street .
Turn left onto Lynne Lane and go approximately ½ mile to the picnic area on the left (West) side of the road.
The location is approximately 116th and Lynne Lane .

4. The Church Office, Caring Center and Children’s Day Camp will be closed on Monday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

5. Two First Family Nights in July!
a) Everyone is invited to Family Night at Camp Loughridge , 4900 W. 71st St. , on Sunday, July 10, at 6:15 p.m. Youth volleyball will begin at 4:00 p.m. and the Family Swim Time at the pool, including snacks, will start at 6:15 p.m. A Family Worship Time will follow that at 8:00 p.m. in the Amphitheater.
b) The whole family is invited to participate in Family Night at The Drillers on Sunday, July 17, at 7:05 p.m. We have reserved seat tickets for the baseball game, $5.00 per person that are now on sale. Our pastor, Deron Spoo , will throwing out the first pitch. Don’t miss it!

6. Sunday Nights in July at FBCT:
a) on Sunday, July 3 – All-Church Picnic in Broken Arrow at 6:00 p.m.
b) on Sunday, July 10 – Family Night at Camp Loughridge at 6:15 p.m.
c) on Sunday, July 17 – Family Night at The Drillers at 7:05 p.m.
d) on Sunday, July 24 – Quarterly Business Meeting at 5:15 p.m. and
30th Anniversary Reception for Larry Merideth at 6:00 p.m.

7. Wednesday Nights in July at FBCT at 6:00 p.m.:
a) Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, have Team Kid in Room 207 North
b) Children, Grades 1-6, have Team Kid in Room 319 North
c) Students have Ichthus in The Student Underground
d) Adults have The Bible in 90 Days program in Kaffe Bona

8. Another opportunity for service! Could you help out in the Welcome Center on Sunday mornings? We need people who can work either one Sunday a month or one Sunday a quarter. The shifts are 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., but can be split (8:30 to 9:30 or 9:30 to 10:30) if necessary. Contact Margaret Jones for more information.

9. Larry Merideth has been a minister with First Baptist Tulsa for 30 years. A reception in his honor will be held on Sunday, July 24, at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Please take a few minutes to send an e-mail with your thoughts, memories, or stories of Larry’s ministry to: kwhite@tulsafbc.org. Kristen has offered to compile these e-mails into a memory book for Larry that will be presented to him on the night of the 24th.

10. FBCT’s Mission Action Project for July involves School Supply Stock-Up. Since school starts in August, we will be collecting school supplies in July. Please try to bring these items to the church early in July so that we can have them ready for distribution before school starts. You can bring notebook paper, spirals, crayons, pencils, pens and boxes of tissues. These much needed and much appreciated supplies are distributed to children in our church’s adoption of some area elementary schools. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 918-481-5834.

Prayer Requests for the Week of June 26th

'The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results' James 5:16 NLT

Adam Green was diagnosed with a pulled ligament in his back. It should heal in 4 to 6 weeks. Pray for a speedier recovery and for Adam to not be in pain.

Jim Hall - Is still at St Francis having more tests run. They have ruled out a blood clot in his leg and are looking at an area in his chest. Pray for accurate diagnosis and speedy effective treatment.

Crossover Students are at Kids Across America camp this week. Pray that decisions will be made by the young people attending.

Sarah Smith - Pray for wisdom for career decisions.

Hassells - Debra's cousin, Anna, will be coming to live with them to attend college. Pray that all the changes and transistions will go smoothly and all of them will be blessed by the experience.

Ashlee Osborn - Her friend and mentor, Linda Scudder, has some health issues including a blog clot and cancer. Pray for God's grace and healing for Linda.

Camden Bearden - Camden's maternity leave ends today. Pray for an easy transition on her return to work tomorrow for she and her family. Also her stepmother, Jan, is having a mastectomy tomorrow. She has stage 4 breast cancer. Pray for skill for the doctors that they will be able to fully remove the cancer. Lastly, her cousin, Moe, is 17 weeks pregnant and was in a car accident yesterday. Another driver ran a red light and t-boned her car. Her placenta has partially detached and they have told her that she may lose her baby. Please pray that the Lord will protect her and the life of her precious baby.

Snacks for July

We need two people each week. We still need someone to help on the 3rd AND the 10th. (I made a mistake and had the Goodwins down on the 10th and 31st. They'll be in First Glance on the 10th so had to move them to the 31st)

July 3rd - Folks

July 10th - Grizzles

July 17th - Remke and Hassells

July 24th - Rogers and Wheelers

July 31st - Osborns and Goodwins

Coming up for next Sunday, June 26th

We will be having a diaper shower for Koehn Goodwin, newborn son of Trent and Tori this coming Sunday morning during our fellowship time. Bring diapers, size 2 or larger, and a package of wipes on Sunday morning.

This Sunday is Jean and Backpack Sunday for our Caring Center Back to School Event. Target has girls jeans on sale this week for $2.48!!! Boys jeans are between $7 and $8 on the clearance rack. PLEASE go shop and let's bring various sizes of jeans to bless school children as they go back to school in August!

Prayer Requests for the Week of 6-19

'But each day the Lord pours His unfailing love upon me and through each night I sing His songs, praying to God who gives me life.'
Psalm 42:8

Ingrams - Terry asked us to pray for God's guidance and peace.

Dales - Amy's dad, Billy Brawner, continues to recover from a broken neck. Pray for Billy and his wife, Sarah, as they make this journey together with the Lord. Pray for Billy's pain to be minimal and that his neck will completely heal.

Beardens - Camden and baby Lane are now sick with the same virus that Con came down with at our Home Night party. Pray for quick healing.

LIVING IN A MATERIAL WORLD:
HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?
Finding contentment in God’s grace and provision. Is less more? Are you buying what they're selling? Then what?
Read Philipians 4:10-20 and 1 Timothy 6:1-19
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%204:10-20,%201%20Timothy%206:1-19&version=NIV
Look at the spiritual goals that Paul suggests in order to find contentment.
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Prayer Requests for the week of June 12th

'Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord'
Psalm 27:14

DelPratts - Omar has a co worker, Sherrie, who is having some heart problems. Please pray for effective treatment for Sherrie.

Ingrams - Terry is very distracted with some issues that have arisen with a vehicle purchase. He also asked us to pray for his friend, Rod, who does the same kind of work as Terry and is having a stressful time dealing with some tractor issues.

Dales - Amy's dad, Billy Brawner, continues his recovery from a broken neck. He saw two different doctors back home in Texas today and they both agree with the Colorado doctors on the diagnosis and method of treatment. Billy will be in a neck brace for at least three months while his neck heals. The specific prayer requests per Amy today are that he will be able to manage his pain on half the amount of pain killers he has been receiving. The pain meds he has been on are highly addictive so his Texas drs have cut his dosage in half. Pray for Billy and his wife, Sarah, as they live this journey of recovery together. Amy and her sister will be returning to help out. Pray for safe travel for all. Praise to the Father for sparing Billy's life and also for His protection from paralysis due to his injury.

LIVING IN A MATERIAL WORLD:
WHERE IS YOUR TREASURE?
The counter-cultural concepts of foregoing the treasures of the world and serving God rather than money.

Read Matthew 6:19-34
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%206&version=NIV

Just for the record, I am not a hoarder. Now, take a quick mental tour of your closet, attic or garage. What items used to have great value to you but don’t any more? How can something be so necessary one minute and forgotten the next? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke to his followers about money and possessions, distinguishing between earthly treasures and heavenly ones. Consider the root of the word “treasures.” Translated, it came to mean a casket or a receptacle for valuables. Now what does that say about earthly treasures? Think about these two bumper stickers: (1) “He who dies with the most toys wins;” and (2) “He who dies with the most toys still dies.” As you read this week and prepare for our discussion on Sunday, consider these three points from our study:
1. Collect the Right Treasure (Matthew 6:19-21)
2. Select the Right Master (Matthew 6:22-24)
3. Reject Sinful Anxiety (Matthew 6:25-34)
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Here are our June Events:

Allison Walden's baby shower on June 11th from 10 to 12 at Brenda Elmore’s home.

Home Night on June 12th at Adam and Emily Green's at 4:00. The purpose of FBCT's church-wide Home Night is to meet in LIFE Groups to: (1) fellowship over a meal (we plan to eat by 5:00); and (2) observe the Lord’s Supper. We will also collect a benevolence offering that will be used to help the needy in our area. Also, we have been told that Deron is the staff member that will visit us that evening. If you have not already made plans, we hope you will feel welcomed to join us that night and let us know you are coming.

Thursday evening, June 16th, Beth Teel has invited the Homebuilders ladies to her house for a Garden tour and dessert fellowship. Please contact Brenda Elmore for more information.

Homebuilders Guys’ Dinner & Dominoes at John Folks’ home on Friday, June 24th, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Please RSVP to John Folks.

Diaper shower for Trent and Tori Goodwin and especially for baby Koehn on Sunday morning, June 26th. Please bring size 2 and larger diapers.

Prayer Requests for the Week of June 5th

Dales - Amy's dad, Billy Brawner, has been moved to a regular room from ICU in a Denver hospital, after suffering a broken neck in a motorcycle accident. Pray that Billy will be able to have some relief from the pain and lay still and be calm. Any movement causes him intense pain. Pray for Amy's mom, Sarah, who was scraped up and very sore for the accident that she will be able to get some rest. Billy does not want her to leave his side. And also pray for Amy and the rest of the family during this most difficult time.

Hassells - Please pray for Dakota Collins. He is a baby boy (a twin) born at 25 weeks and is in critical condition. He has been moved to Omaha, NE

Grizzles - Krystal may be changing jobs (for a better one) Pray for God's hand in the details.

Austin Ingram - The Ingrams were guests this week and Austin has ask for prayer in his job search.

Wheelers - Maggie has an appt after they return from Florida to try to get to the root of her headaches. Pray for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment

Greens - Lindsay Green's father passed away last week. Pray for comfort for them all in the midst of their grief.

'I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.' Psalm 86:12

LIVING IN A MATERIAL WORLD:
WHAT DO YOU OWN?
According to scripture, absolutely nothing.

To start thinking about this Sunday, watch this 8 minute YouTube video called "Seven," by Jen Hatmaker:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXClW85yQsE

Read 1 Chronicles 29:1-20
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Chronicles%2029:1-20&version=NIV

"My Precious! O my Precious!" To you fans of J. R. R. Tolkien's “The Lord of the Rings,” think of the character Gollum who was completely consumed with the magical ring. And then Froddo Baggins, that had inherited the ring. Over time the ring consumed its owner to the point that he no longer owned the ring, but the ring owned him.

Our lesson writer this month states “All in all, we tend to view ownership as a natural, positive element of life. The problem is, we've fooled ourselves into thinking we're actual owners. In reality, God is the bona fide owner of everything on earth and in heaven, and while He allows us to possess some things in life, He remains the source and ruler of those possessions. This notion stands in stark contrast to the world's illusion of self-sufficiency, but it's crucial to understanding wealth, possessions, and God's plan for both.”

This week we will look at a biblical view of ourselves, our things, and our God.
1. God Owns Everything (1 Chronicles 29:10-11)
2. God Gives Us What We Have (1 Chronicles 29:12-16)
3. God Examines Our Hearts (1 Chronicles 29:17-20)

Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Reading the Bible in 90 Days

Start the Summer Reading Challenge today! Meet Wednesday nights at FBCT Downtown in the new Commons area next to Kaffe Böna at 6 PM to join others for a discussion of the week's readings. For a chronological reading plan, go to: http://www.tulsafbc.org/images/content/chron_guide.pdf

Prayer Requests for the week of May 29th

'Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever! Amen' Ephesians 3:20

Grizzles - They are traveling to Las Vegas; please pray for safe travel and no terrorists!

Wheelers - They are traveling to Florida and ask for safety in flying with the girls.

Greens - Adam flies back to UCLA on Wednesday. Pray for safe travel and for complete success in his treatment for his brain cancer through this drug trial he is participating in. Pray he will be able to continue to tolerate the drug.

Langleys - Pray for travel safety for Court and Derek on their anniversary trip and also for Finn while they are away. Courtney has an interview for court she'd like us to pray about. Also one of her co-workers wife has tick fever.

TAKE THE LEAD: INVEST IN OTHERS
How can I make the most impact with the influence God has given me?

Read:
Acts 9:1-31; 11:19-30; and 15:36-41
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%209:1-31;%2011:19-30;%2015:36-41&version=MSG

This month we are looking at leadership. As we have discussed, we each have positions of leadership in our homes, jobs, and in the Kingdom. We've looked at courage, influence, picking up God's agenda, and walking with God. This week we'll wrap up the study and talk about the messy part of leadership: investing yourself in others. Our lesson writer says: "If you are who you need to be, if you're leading for the right reasons, and if you're chasing God's purposes for your life, then the most important thing you can give to others is yourself."

1. INVEST RELATIONALLY (ACTS 9:26-27 HCSB):

26 When he arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to associate with the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, since they did not believe he was a disciple. 27 Barnabas, however, took him and brought him to the apostles and explained to them how Saul had seen the Lord on the road and that He had talked to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus.

Relationships are risky, but they're worth it.
What are the risks we face in relationships?

2. INVOLVE OTHERS (ACTS 11:19-26 HCSB):

19 Those who had been scattered as a result of the persecution that started because of Stephen made their way as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, Cypriot and Cyrenian men, who came to Antioch and began speaking to the Hellenists, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord's hand was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 Then the report about them was heard by the church that was at Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to travel as far as Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged all of them to remain true to the Lord with a firm resolve of the heart, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And large numbers of people were added to the Lord. 25 Then he went to Tarsus to search for Saul, 26 and when he found him he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught large numbers. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch.

One of the miraculous things about the church is that it's formed by people like you and me.
What can this passage teach us about teamwork within the church?

3. RECOGNIZE POTENTIAL (ACTS 15:36-41 HCSB):

36 After some time had passed, Paul said to Barnabas, "Let's go back and visit the brothers in every town where we have preached the message of the Lord and see how they're doing." 37 Barnabas wanted to take along John Mark. 38 But Paul did not think it appropriate to take along this man who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone on with them to the work. 39 There was such a sharp disagreement that they parted company, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed off to Cyprus. 40 Then Paul chose Silas and departed, after being commended to the grace of the Lord by the brothers. 41 He traveled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Sometimes spiritual leaders need to fight for the underdog.
What does this passage teach us about restoring people to ministry despite their past failures?

Our lesson writer says: "Relationships allow us to recognize how God is working in others. Relationships allow us to join God where He's working. They allow us to encourage others to look beyond their pasts so they can see their potential for future success. Relationships are a key measure to our ministry success. They're messy, but they're also rewarding."
How are you doing in your investments? Take time right now and check on them. If you haven't yet made your contacts in your Care Group, what are you waiting for? Make the investment.
Remember, today and always, in Joplin and all parts of the world, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship - Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers