27 May The Shepherd’s Staff – May 2022

At the time of scribing this newsletter the elders were preparing and praying for the upcoming small group leadership training. The two classes, scheduled to take place on April 24th and May 1st, are being provided to equip each small group leader with insight on elder support, resource considerations, leader responsibilities, and functions to fulfill our church’s mission and vision in our small groups.

As part of our study of an Alexander Strauch book entitled Acts 20: Fierce Wolves are Coming; Guard the Flock, the elders recently discussed the persecution that Christians have endured since Jesus’ ascension. We recognize that persecution still exists around the world today. Even though we tend to be shielded by the martyrium that is taking place elsewhere, we do recognize the many ways that the church is being singled out for following Jesus. A profession of faith can even be considered “hate speech” by certain people. Just as Scripture describes the hate and rejection of Jesus Christ during his incarnation, we need to be aware that we are likely to endure the world’s hate and rejection as well. Strauch says “our knowledge of Scripture and our faith will determine our attitude and responses to such persecution.” Peter describes our response to such persecution well in 1 Peter 5:6-9:

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:6-9

What can we do to prepare for persecution?

1) humble ourselves before the Lord; 2) cast our anxieties on Him; 3) be alert and sober minded; 4) remain firm in our faith; and 4) continue to be bold and unashamed of the gospel…to name a few.

Please keep our fellow believers around the world in your prayers as persecution persists and be assured that Jesus promises that his Church will prevail:

10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:10-11

• Bo Sink
• Joe Hayworth
• Eric Hilton
• Steve Cranford
• Kevin Logan
• Jay Payne
• Vince Brown
• Daniel Rich
• Jon Sloan

“The Lord bless you and keep you; 

the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Numbers 6:24-26