First Baptist Church of Midway

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Three succinct, beautifully poetic verses from I Thessalonians, one of Paul's earliest letters, are found in the last chapter of his message to Thessalonica, a church he planted early in his ministry. Yet, in their simplicity and strength, these three verses perfectly summarize the bedrock of Paul's message, which he gives his life to share throughout the New Testament.

Pau''s appeal and encouragement to these early Christians is as relevant today as it was in 50 A.D., when he wrote out of concern for the life challenges these Christians faced. Just like the Thessalonians, we are reminded that our responsibility is to reflect Jesus faithfully, and lovingly, to the believers and non-believers of our community, as we demonstrate our hope and faith in His return.

As it was then, we too face cultural and social pressures that contradict the life God wants for us. But Paul reminds us that we receive the gospel of Jesus Christ not just as words, but also in power through the Holy Spirit. We invite Jesus into our lives and receive His Holy Spirit as our strength and guide in leading God-honoring lives amidst a culture that too often pulls us in the opposite direction.

Just as the Thessalonians matured in their sanctification despite Paul's absence, so must we take responsibility for our individual spiritual maturity, healthy church growth, and discipleship of our local body through our faith in Christ Jesus.

Which brings us back to Paul's three beautiful, purpose-filled verses: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

October 16 - Trustee Meeting at 7 PM

October 17 - Quarterly Business Meeting in lieu of Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study at 7 PM

October 23 - GROW Meeting at 7 PM

October 28 - Stephen Philippi Missionary to Bangladesh will be our guest speaker

November 3 - Fall Festival at Hopper's home, more details to come.

We have been approached by an individual who wants to help our church to be proactive in being prepared for the future. Recently there was a chance to purchase the house behind the church, but we were not in any position to purchase it. They have since taken it off the market, but will most likely be putting it back on the market in a year or so. This anonymous person has offered to match up to $5000 each month (from May through December) that would be given to the parsonage fund over and above your regular offerings. This is a great opportunity to get prepared to purchase some needed property for parking since our church is landlocked. Please consider donating some money towards this fund so we can be better prepared for this possible opportunity. We have raised $7,185! Praise the Lord!!