Tuesday, May 31, 2011

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.

Friday, May 27, 2011

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

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FBCT HOME NIGHT
Join Homebuilders for Home Night at Adam and Emily Green's, Sunday, June 12th, at 4 PM. We will share a meal and communion. This is a family event.

1. For Sunday, May 29:
No PM Activities in observance of the Memorial Day weekend
2. The Church Offices and Caring Center will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of the Memorial Day weekend.
3. Summer Wednesday Nights at FBC:
a) TEAM KID is now meeting every Wednesday night, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, will meet in Room 207 North and Children, Grades 1-6, will meet in Room 319 North.
b) Adults will begin The Bible in 90 Days program on Wednesday, June 1. This summer, we will be reading the Bible in chronological order. This will be the “like” passages in different books of the Bible together in the order of events. Join us as we meet in Kaffe Bona from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The reading schedule: June 1: Genesis 1-11; June 2: Job 1-15; June 3: Job 16-29; June 4: Job 30-42; June 5 Genesis 12-25; June 6: Genesis 26-36; June 7: Genesis 37-50.
4. The next sessions of the Pastor’s First Glance Class will be held on June 5 and 12. 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 June sessions 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 .
5. Our Summer Adult Bible Study begins Sunday, June 5, with the study of Ephesians, led by Bob Post. Ephesians has been called the “Crown of Paulism” and the “Queen of the Epistles.” There may not be any other part of the New Testament that has a more contemporary relevance for today than does the letter of Ephesians. It takes us from theory to practice; from doctrine to duty; and from what God had done to what we must do. Many commentators indicated that it is the highest reach of New Testament thought. The study will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday evening, 6:30 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday evenings, and 12:00 Noon on Wednesday. Sunday evening will feature an All-Church Fellowship following the study. A complimentary pizza supper will precede the Monday study and an ice cream social will follow the study time. There is no cost and no Bible study book to purchase to participate in this event. Adults of all ages are encouraged to join our study. Study guides will be available each evening.
6. FBC’s VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL, The Big Apple Adventure, is coming June 27 to July 1. Vacation Bible School is for all boys and girls who have completed Kindergarten through Grade 6. Preschool VBS is provided for babies through Pre-K for our volunteers. Sign up to be a Tour Guide (teacher) in your Adult LIFE Group or call Debbie or Sabrina in the Church Office, 918-587-1571, for more information.
Wednesday Night Meal for May June 1:
Chicken & Rice Casserole, Peas & Carrots, Buttered Roll and Cherry Supreme Cake
Children’s Ministry
1. Parents: Summer Day Camp will begin Tuesday, May 31, and go through Wednesday, August 17, for children who have completed Kindergarten through Grade 6. The hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, please call the Children’s Ministry Office, 918-594-5028, or go to the Day Camp brochure on our website, www.tulsafbc.org.
2. Kid’s Kamp, for all children who have completed Grades 3 though 6, will be held June 13-16 at Camp Tulakogee . The cost is $155 per child. For more information or to register, please call 918-594-5028.
Missions
1. This Sunday, May 29, is the last call for you to help the Owasso Baptist Children’s Home, the focus of May’s Mission Action Project. Let’s help the Children’s Home get ready for summer by bringing beach towels and flip flops in various sizes. The children look forward each year to these gifts from FBC. You may place these items in the marked Mission Action containers that are placed around the church. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 918-481-5834.
2. 2. A Mission Opportunity for You! There will be a mission trip to San Juan de Los Logos, Mexico , July 18-23. Participants will be leading Vacation Bible School for both children and adults and the cost will be $500 per person. If you are interested, or would like more information about this opportunity, please contact Kristin White at 918-594-5073 or email her at kwhite@tulsafbc.org.
Women’s Ministry
Starting in June, three Bible and Book Studies will be offered by our Women’s Ministry.
All three of these classes will not meet the week of Vacation Bible School , June 27 to
July 1. The studies are:
a) When Life is Hard: Turning Trials to Gold by James MacDonald. This seven week course will meet on Wednesdays, June 8 to July 27, from 9:30-11:30 a.m., in Room 410 North. Based on James MacDonald's personal struggles during a season of trials, this study focuses on Biblical truths that provide encouragement, hope, and answers to enduring those difficult times. The course, $12 per person, will be led by Jill Willey (contact jilwilley@aol.com). For child care, please call 918-594-5028. b) Fingerprints of God by Jennifer Rothschild. This seven week course will meet on Wednesdays, June 8 to July 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., in Room 410 North. This Bible study for women exposes the wonder of God’s touch upon our lives. Participants will discover that when they experience God’s touch, they will recognize six things: honor, intimacy, shelter, guidance, redemption, and refinement. The course, $11 per person, will be led by Cheryl Baber (contact Chb1999@cox.net). For child care, please call 918-594-5028.
c) Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering by Angela Thomas. This seven week course will meet on Thursdays, June 9 to July 28, at 12 Noon, in Room 410 North. This study will encourage women to rekindle their hearts by returning their lives to God. How can an imperfect life with blemishes and scars reflect back to God a true gratefulness for His love? Jesus knows you are not perfect, but He also knows that you are made perfect in Him, if only you will come and surrender to Him daily. The course, $10 per person, will be led by Terry Moore (contact tessamoore27@hotmail.com ). No child care is available.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Prayer Requests for the Week of May 22nd

'The Lord has heard my plea and the Lord will answer my prayer'
Psalm 9:2

PRAISES

Hassells - Their son, Kalen, had an MRI last week due to some dizziness/vision issues and the MRI was clear. Please pray they are able to find an accurate cause for Kalen's problems.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Let's pray often for the victims of the Joplin tornado yesterday. Many have died and many have lost everything they owned. FBC is collecting donations of water, packaged trail mix/peanuts, oranges, and pocket sized packages of hand santizer which will help with immediate needs of rescuers as they help those affected so greatly.

DelPratts - Nikki's mom, Marcella Tiger, has a blockage in an artery in her neck. Please pray for a successful, speedy solution to this dangerous issue.

Bendures - Janna asked us to continue to pray for those she did a story on this week who are living in storage units. Pray they will be able to find jobs and be able to get other living arrangements.

Ingrams - Terry's dad, Randy, is struggling with back pain. Pray that he'll be able to get some relief soon.

- Cindy's mom, Jonalyn, is recovering from knee surgery and her Grandma Jan is recovering from a stroke.

Gambles - Brant and Melissa (former class members) have a 2 year old daughter, Ginny, who is suffering with bone pain as a result of a genetic disorder she suffers from. Pray the doctors will be able to ease Ginny's pain and for peace for Brant and Mel.

Elmores - Our friend and fellow FBC member, Vicki Peters, has asked us to pray for her faithfully for the next few weeks. For those of you that don't know her, Vicki was driving a truck last November that was involved in an accident with an semi truck that resulted in the death of her best friend Reta. Reta's 2 year old, Bella, was in the truck but survived relatively unharmed. Vicki is being sued by Reta's parents on a variety of claims and she will be having several court dates in the next few weeks. She is still deeply grieving the death of her friend and having to deal with this battle with Reta's parents is overwhelming many days. Please pray for God's peace and His provision for Vicki during this days of deep trial. She is running out of money to defend herself. Vicki loves Bella like her own and has not been allowed to see Bella so that is yet another heart break she is having to deal with.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Take the Lead: Pursue God’s Agenda
Why is a leader’s agenda so important?


Read 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Galatians 1:6-10, 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%204:1-5,%20Galatians%201:6-10,%201%20Thessalonians%202:7-12&version=NIV


A leader will only go as far as his or her agenda. That’s why it’s so important to have the right one. No matter how good an agenda might be, if it’s not God’s, it will fall short. Today’s lesson is about staying focused on God’s agenda.
Recognize Your Accountability (1 Corinthians 4:1-5)
Trust God’s Gospel (Galatians 1:6-10)
Stay Connected to the Church (1 Thessalonians 2:7-12)
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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Don't forget, Homebuilders Party this Saturday Night!

1. Plan to join us for HOME NIGHT Sunday, June 12th at Adam and Emily Green’s.

2. Sunday, May 22:
a) Recognition of Graduating Seniors – 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.
b) Senior Graduates’ Brunch – 9:45 a.m.
c) Momentum Class final meeting – 5:00 p.m.
d) Youth Choir in Concert – 7:00 p.m.

3. TEAM KID has begun meeting every Wednesday night, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Preschoolers, 3’s through Pre-K, will meet in Room 207 North. Children, Grades 1-6, will meet in Room 319 North.

4. There will be no afternoon or evening activities at the church on Sunday, May 29, in observance of the Memorial Day weekend. The Church Offices will be closed on Monday, May 30.

5. Adults will again be participating in The Bible in 90 Days program on Wednesday nights this summer. This summer, we will be reading the Bible in chronological order. This will be the “like” passages in different books of the Bible together in the order of events. Join us as we begin this on Wednesday, June 1, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall.

6. Ladies: Three Bible and Book Studies are being offered this summer by our Women’s Ministry. All three of these classes will not meet the week of Vacation Bible School , June 27 to July 1. The studies are:
a) When Life is Hard: Turning Trials to Gold by James MacDonald. This seven week course will meet on Wednesdays, June 8 to July 27, from 9:30-11:30 a.m., in Room 410 North. Based on James MacDonald's personal struggles during a season of trials, this study focuses on Biblical truths that provide encouragement, hope, and answers to enduring those difficult times. The course, $12 per person, will be led by Jill Willey (contact jilwilley@aol.com). For child care, please call 918-594-5028.
b) Fingerprints of God by Jennifer Rothschild. This seven week course will meet on Wednesdays, June 8 to July 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., in Room 410 North. This Bible study for women exposes the wonder of God’s touch upon our lives. Participants will discover that when they experience God’s touch, they will recognize six things: honor, intimacy, shelter, guidance, redemption, and refinement. The course, $11 per person, will be led by Cheryl Baber (contact Chb1999@cox.net). For child care, please call 918-594-5028.
c) Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering by Angela Thomas. This seven week course will meet on Thursdays, June 9 to July 28, at 12 Noon, in Room 410 North. This study will encourage women to rekindle their hearts by returning their lives to God. How can an imperfect life with blemishes and scars reflect back to God a true gratefulness for His love? Jesus knows you are not perfect, but He also knows that you are made perfect in Him, if only you will come and surrender to Him daily. The course, $10 per person, will be led by Terry Moore (contact tessamoore27@hotmail.com ). No child care is available.

7. Calling all Children: Hail a taxi and join us for our VBS Big Apple Adventure, June 27 to July 1. Vacation Bible School is for all boys and girls who have completed Kindergarten through Grade 6. Preschool VBS is provided for babies through Pre-K for our volunteers. Sign up to be a Tour Guide (teacher) in your Adult LIFE Group or call Debbie or Sabrina in the Church Office, 918-587-1571, for more information.

Calendar Highlights for May & June
22 2011 Senior Graduate Recognition & Senior Graduate Brunch
Momentum Course Ends
23-24 Day Camp Counselor Training
25 Student C-Groups End
27-28 BGCO Father & Son Event at Cross Timbers
29 Memorial Day Emphasis AM
No PM Activities
30 Memorial Day
Church Offices & Caring Center Closed
31 Children’s Day Camp Begins
June
1 Students’ Ichthus begins
3 Encore’s Serendipity
5 First Glance Class #1
Evangelism Committee Meeting
Mission Committee Meeting
Student Sunday Night House Parties
Adult Bible Conference (6, 7 & 8)
6 Summer Fund Day for K-2nd Grade
10-15 Youth Choir Tour
12 First Glance Class #2
Adult LIFE Groups HOME NIGHT & Communion Observance
12-13 WMU Convention in Phoenix , AZ
13-16 Kid’s Kamp for 3rd-6th Grades
14-15 Southern Baptist Convention in Phoenix , AZ
16 Finance Committee Meeting
19 FATHER’S DAY – No PM Activities
20 Deacons’ Meeting
20-25 Falls Creek Camp for Students (No Ichthus on 6/20)
24-7/02 CrossOver’s KAA Camp
26 Backpacks & Jeans Altar Call Sunday
WMU Council Meeting
Worship Ministry’s Night of Praise
27-7/01 Vacation Bible School (Caring Center Closed)

Wednesday Night Meal for May 25
Pepperoni Pizza, Tossed Salad, Garlic Cheese Breadsticks and Lemon Cheese Cake

Missions
1. You can help the Owasso Baptist Children’s Home which is the focus of our Mission Action Project for May. Let’s help the Children’s Home get ready for summer by bringing beach towels and flip flops in various sizes. The children look forward each year to these gifts from FBC. You may place these items in the marked Mission Action containers that are placed around the church. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 918-481-5834.
2. A Mission Opportunity for You! There will be a mission trip to San Juan de Los Logos, Mexico , July 18-23. Participants will be leading Vacation Bible School for both children and adults and the cost will be $500 per person. If you are interested, or would like more information about this opportunity, please contact Kristin White at 918-594-5073 or email her at kwhite@tulsafbc.org.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Prayer Requests for the Week of May 15th

'Hear me as I pray, O Lord; Be merciful and answer me.'
Psalm 27:7

What a privilege it is to come before His throne of grace knowing He hears us, He is merciful and He will answer. Thanks for praying often this week for these requests.

Hassells - Their son, Kalen, had an MRI on Saturday. Please pray that it is all clear and the doctors can figure out why he's having dizzy spells, etc.

Bendures - Janna asked us to pray for 16 year old, Kim, who has been missing since May 9th. Also Janna is doing a story this week on Fox News about some people living in a storage unit. Pray they will get some help as a result of her report.

Remkes - Amber's co worker, Julie, was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. She is undergoing aggressive treatment. Pray for healing.

Greens - Please pray for Adam to continue to well tolerate the trial drug for his brain cancer. Pray for complete healing.

Beardens - Matt has an art exhibit next weekend. Pray for sales and commissions to result.

Grizzles - Scott and Krystle will both be working Mayfest this week. Krystle requested we pray for good weather.

Ingrams - Cindy's mom is having knee surgery on Wednesday. Pray for a smooth surgery and a quick recovery.
Also, Taylor got sick last night but seemed better this morning. Pray it was just something she ate and that Logan won't get it. Finally, Cindy's grandma called her mother very early this morning thinking she was having a stroke. They called an ambulance and initial tests show she did indeed have a mild stroke. She had another mild stroke a few years ago. Pray that the doctors can effectively treat her and she'll have a quick recovery.