Wednesday, May 21, 2014

News from the Illinois Baptist

Where there's a will
Just a few days ago, my wife, Beth, and I finally got around to doing something we had promised ourselves we would do for years. We updated our wills. Read more about IBSA Executive Director Nate Adams' thoughts on leaving a Christian legacy at IBSA.org.

Are we expecting too much or too little from the church?

Pastors meet a lot of people who are looking for a church. One of the most helpful questions to ask is, "What are you looking for in a church?" Unfortunately, most people do not filter what they looking for in a church through the Bible as much as through their previous experiences or personal ideals. Find out what Christians should be looking for in a church at ChurchLeaders.com.

Summer Worship University (SWU) is July 7-11

If your student loves music, acting, art, fun and fellowship, SWU is the place for them. SWU helps students to lead and participate in their home church's worship. They can learn to play an instrument, learn to "stomp," do interpretive movement, or get technical with training on sound boards and worship leading. Get registration information and learn more about SWU at IBSA.org.

Should a pastor use and iPad, iPhone, or print Bible to minister Scripture to people?

It is safe to say the early church fathers never had to tackle this question. However, it is certainly one we face now and has important implications to the fruitfulness of a pastor's ministry today. Get a basic template for considering the kind of means to use to minister God's Word to God's people at PracticalShepherding.com.

5 implications for churches as the Boomers retire

On January 1, 2011, the first Baby Boomer turned 65. In fact, on that day, 10,000 of them turned 65. And that pace of aging will continue until 2030, when every Boomer is 65 or older. The implications for churches are staggering. There are very few churches that will not feel the impact of retiring Boomers. Learn what this means for your church at ThomRainer.com.

It's not too late to sign up for Missions Spectacular!

Missions Spectacular is a fantastic opportunity for a one-day missions project for your family, youth group, church group or just yourself. For just $25 for adults and $7.50 for kids under 12, you will get a T-shirt, lunch and dinner plus some ministry supplies. To learn more about the projects in Decatur, Macomb, East St. Louis or the Gateway area on June 7, visit IBSA.org.

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