I am still rejoicing over a successful and inspiring meeting in Springfield. As usual, President Mark Milioni and the entire staff at BBC went beyond the call of duty to ensure a warm and inviting time together.
The food and fellowship at Monday Evening’s outdoor party were, and it seemed the people didn’t want to leave. I loved the energetic worship during all the services. Nate Harmon always gives us his best and sets the table for each of the speakers.
I thought the preaching was exceptional and passion filled. Every speaker on Monday and Tuesday talked about winning their neighbors and friends to Christ. This emphasis on leading others to Jesus was something we all needed to hear. Personal evangelism is the obvious common thread behind the growth and success of these pastors and their churches. It is my honor and joy to work alongside an Executive Committee that is so deeply committed to the purposes of God.
It is always a highlight to see new missionary approval and the celebration of long-term service. Our Mission Office presented these things with dignity and enthusiasm. I honestly believe we have the greatest missionaries in the world and it’s a blessing to be involved in missionary endeavors of the BBFI.
I want to commend BBC for honoring the Goodman family at the graduation service. This couple personifies what Baptist Bible College tries to produce as they have spent their lives selflessly and ably ministering to a local congregation. They extended their service to our entire fellowship at every opportunity. It was great to hear Jim Goodman deliver a brief, but immensely impactful, commencement address.
Finally, it was my blessing to address our fellowship on Wednesday evening. During the message, I identified several areas I believe we need to begin a discussion. Currently, we gather three times each year. I think this causes our attendance to be somewhat diluted. Budgeting the time and funds for three meetings is difficult.
Our governance structure revolves around state representatives with each state fellowship selecting a delegate. At first glance, this may seem effective and efficient. However, the involvement of our state reps is limited, and this has proven to be a system that is broken. Our missionary force has more at stake in our fellowship than anyone else. It mystifies me they are not allowed to vote in our fellowship business nor are they given any representation.
At this point, I am not proposing anything. I merely state we need to discuss these issues. In the days ahead I am working on ways we can open the conversation and collect some useful ideas. Please pray with me about these things!