These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17:11

Is the Word of God important to you? I hope so. God always commends his people for being dedicated to His Word in daily reading, systematic study, research and discussion of God's truths. Perhaps some of you have been frustrated that we do not have our Evening Service or that our adult Sunday School classes have been forced to move into homes (no space available). I want to remind you that the Sunday School hour is not the only time we should have available for study of the Word together. We want to encourage all of God's people to be good students of the Word. We also want to encourage small study and fellowship groups that meet during the week for study of the Word and prayer for one another. If you have never studied the Bible before here are some good opportunities.

Online Bible Study
"The Intertestamental Period" - An in depth study of the 400-year period between the Old and New Testaments. You will gain a clear understanding of the history of the Jews, understand the role of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, and God's dealings with men like Alexander the Great. Learn the origin of the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Septuagint, and the Jewish Calendar. There are eight lessons. This is an ideal way for shy people to get into a study group, or for those that have odd hours or little time to go to meetings. Learn more on our web site and register soon.

Thursday Pastor's Class
The Intertestamental Period" - This classroom study begins Thursday, January 12, 2006, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the middle classrooms 4 & 5. Sign up early, class size is limited to around 15 students. There is no cost. This is a pre-course to the pastor's Leadership Academy known as S.E.A.N. (Seminary by Extension to All Nations.) We will be studying the Intertestamental Period, just like the online class. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the Word, get to know new people in the church, and get to know your pastor close up. Register early!

Daily Devotional Guides
31 Daily Devotional Thoughts on The Names of Christ. Available January 1, 2006 on our church web site. In February we begin a new series on the Gospel of Mark featuring "Powerful Encounters With Jesus Christ." Then in March we will be guided through intimacy with God in prayer; and finally in April we will examine Stewardship, the Discipline of Joyful Giving. Join us online. Look for the Christmas Bulb Emblem and click on it.

Through the Bible in 2006
There are many ways to read the Bible through in a year. We offer an interesting and unique system of reading the Scriptures, so that you don't easily get discouraged. We begin with the New Testament in 100 days. That means by the end of March, you will have read all of the New Testament. Then the Old Testament is divided logically by topics. Pick up a copy of the Bible reading schedule in the narthex, church office, or online. Another great way to encourage your Bible reading is to do it together with others and track your progress on a Bible Tree, each leaf represents a book of the Bible read. There are a total of 66 books.

Leaning on Jesus,


Rev. Richard W. LaFountain
Senior Pastor