Here's a closer look at what's happening around RBM this month!
Letter from the RBM National Representative
Greetings in the name of our wonderful Lord Jesus!
Hope! For many of us living in winter’s climes of cold, snow, and ice, we hope for spring. We yearn for the sweet smell of gentle rain showers, early flowers peeking their way upward through the soil, warm days, light jackets, the promise of God’s creation coming back to life.
Hope! “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, . . . He was buried, and . . . He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). We who know Christ—and churches that are built on the truth of the gospel—have hope. Hope that is sure and settled.
The writer of Hebrews notes, “Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us” (Hebrews 6:17–18).
We possess the sure promise of God—hope—that He has saved us from sins.
We possess the sure promise of God—hope—that He gives grace today.
We possess the sure promise of God—hope—that Jesus “will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation” (Hebrews 9:28).
This Easter month understand your hope, live your hope, and build your future upon this hope.
Jesus Christ is risen from the dead! He is risen indeed!
In His grace,
David E. Strope, D.D.
Interim National Representative
March Pulse Ministry Updates
DAVID STROPE, Interim National Representative
In February, my time was mostly consumed by preparing for and participating in Regular Baptist International’s ministry in Liberia, West Africa.
Prior to serving in Liberia, my wife, Debbie, and I joined Matt Olmstead, director of Regular Baptist Press, and his wife, Rhoda Jane, at Faith Baptist Bible College’s Refresh conference January 31–February 3. RBM and RBP filled a display table, presenting their many resources available to churches, individuals, and church associations. Debbie and I enjoyed the preaching and fellowship, gaining new contacts and reacquainting ourselves with old friends.
On February 9 it was my privilege to speak in FBBC’s chapel. I preached from Hebrews 13:9 on “Established in God’s Grace.” It was a most enjoyable opportunity, and the students at least appreciated that I ended chapel early!
February 11–26 I traveled to and ministered in Monrovia, Liberia. Joining me were Josh Robinson, pastor of Altoona (Iowa) Regular Baptist Church, and James Kester, pastor of Sahuaro Baptist Church, Tucson, Arizona, and member of the Council of 18.
Our first three days in Liberia we went up-country to Gbarnga. On the way we stopped to see one of the early mission stations that Baptist Mid-Missions constructed in that region. And what a joy it was to visit local churches and their pastors. We saw the work God has done through generations in building His church in Liberia.
Liberia has been torn by civil war and tribal conflict that lasted from 1989 to 2003. Many churches were nearly put out of existence, but the Body of Christ now thrives. While poverty is overwhelming, believers’ joy that God provides is evident.
Even as was true in the book of Acts, persecution and difficulty in Liberia brought not the demise of the church but its growth. God’s pattern of significant church growth seems to be trial and difficulty, not ease and prosperity. Even in North America, as our day grows darker spiritually with increased opposition, perhaps God is building His church by His unique, infinite wisdom.
Over 100 pastors, evangelists, and deacons attended a pastors’ training seminar February 15–17 at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Monrovia. Organizers of the seminar were hoping for good attendance, and the number of attendees surpassed their expectations. James, Josh, and I handled the teaching responsibility, instructing many who have no theological training and reminding those with training of Scripture’s truths.
Sprinkled throughout the seminar were Q & A sessions addressing many questions. Primary among these questions were those that dealt with charismaticism and church discipleship. Charismatic influences and the “health, wealth, and prosperity gospel” are profoundly and negatively affecting the churches, particularly the younger generation. Much instruction is needed for both pastors and church members.
While we received profound thanks for our ministry, our thanks was to this church and the attendees—for their gracious hospitality, teachable hearts, and enduring faith through such difficult times in their country.
A Bible conference took place February 19–25. James, Josh, Bill, Kathy, and I spoke throughout. The conference theme was “Arise and Rebuild” from Nehemiah 2, ending with a compound theme: “Arise and Rebuild with Joy by Grace!”
Each day began with two hours of prayer, followed by a Sunday School teaching time for men, women, and young adults, and then an over-two-hour preaching session. The preaching sessions included not only preaching but also testimonies, Bible recitation, singing by Liberian choirs, and many announcements and encouragements.
Liberian time is very flexible. For example, evening sessions were scheduled for 7:00 Liberian time, but the last session on February 24 actually began at 8:20 p.m. and ended after 11:00 p.m.!
Our team’s ministry in Liberia concluded on Sunday, February 25 in the worship service of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where I preached from Acts 4 on “God’s Great Church.”
The team and I were thrilled and exhausted, encouraged and challenged by the Liberians’ sincere love of Christ and fidelity to the gospel in partnership with Regular Baptist International. One afternoon of the conference week I spent time answering questions and giving guidance as pastors seek to reform a Regular Baptist International partnering fellowship in Liberia that became defunct due to civil war in that country.
The Liberian believers expressed profound and repeated gratitude for our presence and ministry.
RBM Office Updates
Ministry continues in the RBM office, with Kerry Watkins capably leading our staff. Preparation also continues for the Regular Baptist Ministries Conference 2024. You will find the conference schedule, speaker bios, lodging information, registration, and more at garbcConference.org.
Matt Olmstead, director of Regular Baptist Press, has held several Town Hall meetings, seeking input from current and prospective customers. RBP finalized arrangements to make the Matthew volume of the New Testament Exposition Commentary (by Chris Miller) available for purchase on the Logos study system.
My Travel Schedule
March 7–8: Baptist Mid-Missions council meetings
March 10: Daniels Road Baptist Church, Fort Myers, Florida
March 17: Bethany Baptist Church, Naples, Florida
The Baptist Bulletin
Be sure to consume the upcoming Spring issue of The Baptist Bulletin. Its helpful, engaging articles will encourage, teach, and inform of key ministries in our fellowship.
Personal Notes
My trip to Liberia is at least my 11th trip to international ministry fields. Each occasion has brought me enrichment as I see God’s work not merely in my limited line of sight but around the world. The Liberian pastors and church members have much to teach North American pastors and church members.
Most of the pastors I visited in Liberia are paid nothing for their ministries, yet these pastors serve with diligence, joy, and fruitfulness. Many church members live in surroundings so humble they bring tears to outsiders’ eyes. In one remote village the team and I made the final part of our journey on foot to deliver a new wheelchair to a disabled mother. Each house is little more than a tin shack with a thatched roof and dirt floors. Yet how hospitable, how grateful, and how earnest the locals were in their expressions of love to us. Many of those villagers are members of the nearby Kornee Independent Baptist Church.
James, Josh, and I are also grateful for Bill and Kathy Brittain, who hosted and traveled with us. They labored tirelessly before and during our trip. To put it simply, they are the best! And so are a host of missionaries who have dedicated their lives to serving Christ in places like Liberia, where persecution is common and poverty persists.
Despite Liberia’s civil war and an unemployment rate that stands at 80 percent of the working population, churches partnering with Regular Baptist International have flourished. God is still building His church—many times through undesired and unexpected trials. And to imagine that we are “God’s co-workers” (2 Corinthians 6:2, NIV)!
It is my joy to represent Regular Baptist Ministries nationally and internationally and my thrill to serve Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory.
KERRY WATKINS, Head of Operations and HR Director
From an operational perspective, 2024 might be described as a year of repairing and building infrastructure. Most of the work being done is behind the scenes and not obvious or flashy but is necessary and will lay a good foundation for future years.
As an example, we have a team crafting a motto and core values. These will provide a clear purpose for our work, help the entire staff understand how we will work toward that purpose, and establish the culture RBM needs to move forward. We are also working on ways to improve our service delivery and other issues that will help us serve our churches in greater ways.
If your passion is working in the editorial field, then go to GARBC.org/careers to see if the editorial position posted there fits you. Maybe you know of someone who would fit the role. Please make that person aware of the opportunity. The hardest part of filling a position is getting the word out so qualified and interested individuals know about the opportunity.
This is not the only position you will see posted there. You will also see the position of GARBC national representative. Visit GARBC.org/national-representative-job-posting to learn about the position and to either nominate someone or apply. We are still interviewing candidates who potentially have the credentials and passion to lead the association. Please be praying as we work through this process. And pray for David Strope as he serves in this role on an interim basis.
MARK JOHNSON, Treasurer and Controller
Registration is now open for the Regular Baptist Ministries Conference June 24–27! We are so excited to welcome you to Harvest Bible Chapel in Elgin, Illinois, where the RBM office has been located since late 2022.
Harvest’s facility will provide a spacious venue for this year’s conference, and we can’t wait to gather with you for fellowship, singing, and learning. For those with children and teens, we have a terrific program planned that will nourish them spiritually and provide fun opportunities in the community. If you are connected to an organization or business that serves Regular Baptist churches, consider joining us as an exhibitor to strengthen and expand your connections with ministry leaders.
You won’t want to miss this time of refreshment.
MATT OLMSTEAD, Director of Regular Baptist Press
The RBP staff is in full production mode as 2024 swings into high gear. Business is ramping up, and we are optimistic for a successful quarter. We’re planning to reveal some amazing new products at the Regular Baptist Ministries Conference June 24–27. Plan to attend!
Itinerary
March 1–2: Church Ministries Conference, Grand Rapids, Michigan
DARRELL GOEMAAT, Coordinator of Regular Baptist International
Regular Baptist Ministries is forging new and stronger relationships with our Regular Baptist International partners in Liberia. Last month David Strope, interim national representative of the GARBC, traveled with a team to Monrovia, where they participated in a pastors’ seminar and Bible conference. These events were hosted by Liberian pastors, including Philemon Gwelikporlusohn, president of the African Fundamental Baptist Mission and pastor of Highland Hills Baptist Church in Monrovia.
Joining David were Josh Robinson, pastor of Altoona (Iowa) Regular Baptist Church, and James Kester, pastor of Sahuaro Baptist Church, Tucson, Arizona, and member of the Council of 18. ABWE missionaries Bill and Kathy Brittain also assisted the team. The men shared the preaching duties, focusing on topics like local church polity, ordinances, theology, and Baptist distinctives.
In Myanmar and India, churches continue to struggle with civil unrest and persecution. In India, churches are also struggling with Hindu radical extremists, says Prasad Sakile, a pastor with the New Life Regular Baptist Society of Andhra Pradesh. Last month extremists interrupted an evening prayer meeting at one of New Life’s churches and beat the pastor and some of the church’s elders. “Please pray for this church, for [the] Lord’s guidance,” Prasad says.
Prasad’s own church celebrated its anniversary. Pastors of New Life’s churches attended. Anniversary events included the baptisms of six people who attend the church.
A good number of leaders who partner with Regular Baptist International plan to attend the Regular Baptist Ministries Conference this summer in Illinois. Please pray that these pastors and their family members will raise the funds to attend and that their embassies would grant them permission to travel.
MANNING BROWN, Director of Regular Baptist Chaplaincy
Physical readiness and resiliency are critical components to job performance. Just as critical is spiritual resiliency. Chaplains provide Christ-centered counsel, comfort, and care to ensure that people are ready to take on the toughest challenges. To find out how you can support Regular Baptist Chaplaincy or to become a chaplain, please visit RegularBaptistChaplaincy.org.
CLARE JEWELL, Director of Generate
Generate will evaluate several grants in early May. Please encourage pastors and churches to submit applications by April 1.
Please pray as we continue encouraging pastors and churches to focus on evangelism, disciple making, leadership development, and church planting. These are fundamental needs for churches. Pray that more and more churches will develop an outreach-focused, disciple-making culture.
Pray, too, that churches will reevaluate their metrics. In addition to counting those who gather and the money that people give, churches need to track the number of adults trusting Christ as Savior and being baptized, the number of people engaged in making disciples, and the number of leaders being equipped and sent out to pastor or plant churches. These efforts will fuel the health and reproduction of churches and their leaders.
Itinerary
March 3: Oak Park Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana
March 12: ABWE board meeting, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
March 17: Lakewood Park Baptist Church, Auburn, Indiana
March 24: Grandview Baptist Church, Grandview, Washington
