IBSA eConnection: Be a guest-friendly church, free Grant Norsworthy concert, BFI bonds, more

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Free Grant Norsworthy concert Friday

Got Friday night plans? See Grant Norsworthy and the House Band free in concert Friday, April 5 from 7-9 p.m. at the IBSA Building in Springfield. Also performing are The Singing Churchmen of Illinois with guest conductor Dr. Lavon Gray and accompanist Tammy Ratsch. E-mail DebbieMuller@IBSA.org for additional information.

Don't forget, the IBSA Worship Leaders' Retreat is April 5-6 at the IBSA Building. Visit IBSA.org to learn more.

'10 Commandments' for guest-friendly churches

The Bible is replete with admonitions of hospitality and servanthood. It's important for church members to understand that a servant-like spirit should also be manifested when we gather to worship. Guests are often uncomfortable, if not intimated, when they visit a church. We are to be gracious and sacrificial servants to them. Learn how your church can become more guest-friendly at BPnews.net.

Why 'insiders' are killing your church

If the problem is not strategy, theology or leadership, why aren't we reaching the lost? Jesus knew. When challenged about His own missional emphasis toward those on the outside of faith, He responded: "Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? Go figure out what the Scripture means: 'I'm after mercy, not religion.' I'm here to invite outsiders, not coddle insiders'" (Matthew 9:12-13, Msg). Read more at ChurchLeaders.com.

Cooperative Program Sunday is April 14

The Cooperative Program is the world's most effective system for missions giving. Through offerings from all our churches, the Cooperative Program produces about $190 million for missions work every year. Each time you give to your church, a small portion (whatever percentage your church chooses) goes through the Cooperative Program to the mission field, starting in Illinois and then to the whole world. Get our free CP e-book, video and more at IBSA.org.

Buy bonds now from BFI

The Baptist Foundation of Illinois has announced the availability of BFI Bond Issue 2013A, a bond issue of $1,000,000 sold in $1,000 increments. They are available from April 1-30 or until the issue is fully subscribed. BFI Bonds have a 3% coupon paid semi-annually and support Illinois Baptist church construction loans. Bonds may be purchased by Illinois Baptist churches or individual members. Get a complete prospectus and application at BaptistFoundationIL.org.

For additional information, call (217) 391-3116.

8 tips for short-term mission trips

As summer approaches, churches are preparing to send out teams for summer mission trips. Those who are going on trips typically go through some type of training, but as flawed individuals, it's more than easy to make some mistakes. Some are only minor and will lead to a good laugh and a great story to bring home; however, there are others that can have more collateral damage than meets the eye, and could prevent the work we do as missionaries from being effective. Get eight tips for making the most of your mission trip at ProjectTGM.com.

Interested in participating in missions this summer? Visit IBSA.org to learn about available mission opportunities.

Become an Illinois Baptist Disaster Relief volunteer

Illinois Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers stand on the front lines of ministry to those who are suffering due to natural and man-made disasters. Illinois Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers go into these situations and lend a helping hand while sharing God's love. Find out how you can become an Illinois Baptist Disaster Relief volunteer by participating in the April 19-20 training event in Virden at IBSA.org.

IBSA eConnection is a weekly electronic newsletter designed to provide Illinois Baptists with relevant, useful information and resources. We pray it enriches your ministry and helps your church to grow and minister.