A Word from Mike.....
Many are wondering if the solar eclipse (Apr. 8) has any prophetic meaning. A couple of things to consider: First, eclipses are not unusual. Though they may not happen frequently, they do happen regularly. A total solar eclipse is a spectacular event, but it is simply part of the magnificent working of the universe, all ordained and ordered by God the Creator. Second, such events only have prophetic significance if they are clearly connected with biblically revealed predicted events. I don’t know of any place in scripture that specifically mentions an eclipse as a definite sign of end-time events. The scriptures do tell us that there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars in relation to such events, but a normal solar eclipse by itself is not a clear sign of the end, since they have been happening throughout history. Fourth, any connection with eschatological happenings will only be known after the fact…if there are any. If other biblically predicted occurrences follow, then, we might consider it to be significant as part of God prophetic calendar. Unless or until more happens, we simply are to watch and wait, as the church has been instructed to do since the first century. One day it all will happen; maybe soon, maybe not. Either way, God is in control of it all, and we need to rest in Him.
Whether we might be in the last days or not, only God knows, but we as the people of God always need to be sensitive to ministering most effectively in the times in which we live. ‘Business as usual’ must never be the priority for ministry. If we want to be relevant and have Kingdom impact, we should continually reassess what we do and how we do it. With that as a backdrop, I will be leading a one day study and discussion on Monday, April 29 from 9:00 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. at the HBA office, about how we might minster more effectively now…and how we might better prepare for the future. We will also provide lunch. This, by the way, is not about church renewal or church growth, per se; it is about taking a fresh look at the biblical teachings and practices that the writers saw as basic for the church. It just might surprise us at some of the things we will uncover. I trust it will be thought-provoking, and I expect lots of interaction and discussion. Please let us know if you plan to attend so we will know how many to expect. This event is free and is everyone, so please spread the word.
The schedule will be as follows:
SESSION 1 9:00-10:15 The Context of the NT and the Early Church
BREAK 10:15-10:30
SESSION 2 10:30-11:45 The Main Things of NT Life and Ministry
LUNCH 11:45-12:30
SESSION 3 12:30-1:45 Living the Main Things in the 21st Century Church at Ease
Break 1:45-2:00
SESSION 4 2:00-3:30 Living The Main Things in Difficult Times
Hope you can come, bring someone with you, and be ready to participate!
Additionally, I will be starting another ministry study group/class in the southern part of the HBA for those interested in growing in their knowledge and skills for ministry. This is NOT for vocational ministers only; it is open to anyone who might like to attend. This group will begin by addressing issues such as: How We Process Information, Handling Scripture as Accurately as Possible, How God Made Us to Function in Specific Individual Ways, and Applying Biblical Truth Directly to Life and Ministry. We will be meeting on Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m. at FBC, Dumas.(will begin April 3, 2024) The late hour is to accommodate for church mid-week services, and to avoid people having to be out for another night during the week. I think this is going to be a great time of fellowship and challenge. If you would like to participate, come join us.
Blessings!!
MM
