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August 5, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
The Answer for a Discouraged Soul
Last Sunday evening, we began walking through Psalm 42 and considered the subject “Thirst for God.” The Psalmist described his longing for God with these familiar words: “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” We were reminded that the greatest evidence of spiritual health is not that we believe in God, but that we continually desire God. The Psalmist did not just want relief from his circumstances. More than anything else, he wanted renewed fellowship with the Living God! Tonight, we will return to Psalm 42 and continue into Psalm 43 as we consider the subject “The Answer for a Discouraged Soul.” Although the Psalmist genuinely thirsted for God, he was also deeply discouraged. He was separated from the house of God, overwhelmed by sorrow, mocked by his enemies and struggling with what appeared to be the silence of God. Again and again, he asked himself: “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?” But he did not allow discouragement to have the final word. He answered his troubled soul with this declaration: “Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him.” That repeated statement forms the heart of tonight’s message. Biblical hope is not pretending that everything is fine. It is not ignoring pain, denying sorrow or refusing to admit that we are struggling. Biblical hope is the confident expectation that, even when our soul is cast down and God seems far away, He is still faithful and we must praise Him. The Psalmist teaches us that we do not have to just listen to our discouraged hearts. We can speak truth to them. We can remember God in the middle of the storm. We can bring our hardest questions to Him. We can ask Him to send out His Light and Truth. And we can trust that the God who sees our discouragement is still able to lift our soul. You may be walking through a difficult season tonight. Your soul may feel heavy. Your prayers may seem unanswered. You may know what the Bible says while still struggling with what you feel. Psalm 42 and Psalm 43 give us a message for moments like these: You may be cast down, but you have not been cast away. You may feel overwhelmed, but you are not outside the reach of God’s lovingkindness. You may be walking through the night, but morning is coming. You may not understand the road, but His light and truth will lead you. Come prepared tonight with your Bible open to Psalm 42 and Psalm 43. My prayer is that God will strengthen discouraged hearts and teach each of us to say with confidence: “Hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Can't make it tonight? Watch Live HERE!The Answer for a Discouraged Soul
July 21, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
No Other Gospel: A Study of Galatians
As I have studied and preached through Galatians, the Lord has done a work in my own heart. One of the truths that has encouraged and challenged me most is Paul’s statement: Galatians 6:14
But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. Paul was saying that because of the cross, his relationship with the world had completely changed. The world and its system had lost their appeal to Paul, and Paul was no longer considered anything of value by the world. Paul found something greater, the cross of Jesus Christ. This was not a new truth for Paul. Earlier in Galatians, he wrote: Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me. Paul understood that the cross was not just the place where Jesus died for him; it had become the defining reality of his entire life. His old identity, ambitions, righteousness, and confidence had been crucified with Christ. He was no longer living to establish his own worth. Christ was now living through him. That truth has caused me to examine my own heart. What still holds too much appeal for me? Whose approval am I seeking? In what accomplishments am I tempted to glory? Do I find my identity in what I have done, what I possess, what others think of me, or in what Jesus Christ accomplished upon the cross? The Gospel does not just bring us to the cross for salvation and then allow us to move on to something else. We begin at the cross, we live under the shadow of the cross, and we will glory in the cross for all eternity. There is no other Gospel, and there can be no other object of our glory than Jesus Christ and His finished work. Individual Sermon Summaries The series includes the following fifteen messages: 1) When the Gospel is at Stake — Galatians 1:1–10
We open this series by uncovering the urgency behind Paul's letter to the Galatians. Paul confronts a dangerous distortion of the true gospel that had taken root in the churches of Galatia, and this message sets the stakes for the entire study: when the gospel is altered, everything is lost. 2) Called into Grace — Galatians 1:1–10
Returning to the same passage in the evening service, this message focuses on Paul's warning to a young church drifting from the gospel that had called them. Though the Galatians had received grace, they were tempted to abandon it, and Paul's astonishment becomes the church's own caution. 3) The Power that Changes Everything — Galatians 1:10–16
This message examines the testimony of the Apostle Paul, whose radical conversion stands as undeniable proof that the gospel of Jesus Christ does not merely improve a life—it transforms it entirely, from the inside out. 4) Only the Gospel — Galatians 1 (focus verse 1:24)
Continuing through Paul's early testimony, this message shows that only the gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to truly and radically change a life, as those who once persecuted the faith glorified God in Paul because of him. 5) Living What We Say We Believe — Galatians 2:11–21
Paul's public confrontation of Peter at Antioch exposes the gap that can form between what believers profess and how they actually live. This message challenges the church to close that gap, holding fast to the truth that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone. 6) Who is Living Your Life — Galatians 2:16–21
Building on Paul's confrontation of Peter, this message moves believers beyond simply knowing the gospel to truly living it, anchored in Paul's declaration: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me." 7) The Danger of Spiritual Self Reliance — Galatians 3:1–9
Paul confronts the Galatians' drift toward self-effort, reminding them—and the church today—that the Christian life begins, continues, and grows by grace through faith, never by human striving. 8) Redeemed and Adopted — Galatians 4
Paul reminds believers of the fullness of the gospel: through Jesus Christ, believers are not only redeemed from the bondage of sin and the law, but adopted into the family of God as sons and heirs. 9) Don't Go Back — Galatians 4:8–11
Paul issues a passionate warning to believers tempted to return to spiritual bondage after tasting the freedom found in Christ. Having been set free, the church is called never to look back. 10) Until Christ be Formed in You — Galatians 4 (focus verse 4:19)
Paul's travail for the Galatian believers reveals that the gospel does far more than save from judgment—it transforms believers into the likeness of Christ. This message calls the church to ongoing spiritual formation, not mere profession. 11) Free to Serve — Galatians 5:1–15
The freedom Christ purchased was never meant to become an excuse for self-centered living. This message shows that true Christian liberty is found in loving and serving others, not indulging the flesh. 12) The War Within — Galatians 5:16–21
The greatest battle every Christian faces is not one found in the headlines, but the war raging within the heart. Paul reveals the constant conflict between the flesh and the Spirit that marks the believer's daily walk. 13) Evidence of True Freedom — Galatians 5:16–26
What does true freedom in Christ actually look like? This message shows that the Christian life is not about trying harder or merely avoiding sin—it is about Christ living His life through the believer, evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit. 14) Restoring Grace — Galatians 6:1–10
Paul reminds the church that a Spirit-filled congregation is not made up of perfect people, but of believers who lovingly restore one another in a spirit of meekness, bearing one another's burdens. 15) No Other Glory — Galatians 6:11–18
In Paul's closing words, the series reaches its conclusion: there is no other glory than the cross of Jesus Christ. As Paul contrasts empty religion with true faith, the church is reminded one final time that no other gospel—and no other glory—will do. From beginning to end, Galatians reminds the church that the gospel is not to be added to, altered, or abandoned. It stands alone as the power of God unto salvation, and it alone sets the believer free to walk in the Spirit, free to serve, free to restore one another in grace, and free to glory in nothing but the cross. We invite you to watch or listen through the full series at the link below.
No Other Gospel — Study of GalatiansWhen the Gospel is at Stake
June 24, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Marked Pages: More Than an Offering Plate
I have recently been reading material to help me get a better grasp on what biblical giving looks like in modern economic times. When I read the Old Testament, I find God's people bringing offerings that often look very different from what we see today. They brought grain offerings, firstfruits, livestock, produce from their fields, and various other sacrifices. Their giving reflected the way they earned a living and the resources God had entrusted to them. That raises an interesting question: What does biblical stewardship look like in today's world? As I studied this subject, I came across a resource that identified three primary "pockets" from which believers give today. The concept challenged me because most Christians are familiar with one of these pockets but rarely consider the other two. I wanted to pass this thought along because it is something worth contemplating, praying about, and engaging in as faithful stewards of God's blessings. The principle is simple: everything God entrusts to us is meant to be stewarded for His glory. Psalm 24:1
The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. We are not owners. We are stewards.
God blesses His children not merely so they can possess resources, but so they can manage those resources in a way that honors Him. The purpose of blessing is that it is stewarded by God's children for His glory. 1) The Earned Income Pocket This is the pocket most of us immediately think about when the subject of giving arises. Earned income is the money we receive through our labor—our paycheck, salary, wages, commissions, or business income. For many believers, faithful stewardship begins here. As God provides through our work, we return a portion to Him through regular, cheerful, and sacrificial giving. When we place an offering in the plate, support missions, or give toward a ministry need, we are often giving from our earned income pocket. This type of giving is important, biblical, and should be practiced consistently. Yet it is only one aspect of stewardship. 2) The Capital Pocket The capital pocket includes assets that have accumulated over time. These may include savings accounts, investments, stocks, retirement funds, real estate, land, business interests, valuable collections, or other resources God has entrusted to us. Many believers carefully consider giving from their income while never considering how God might use their accumulated assets. Throughout Scripture, God's people gave not only from what they earned, but also from what they possessed. There are seasons when God may lead a believer to use a portion of their savings to advance a ministry project, support a missionary, assist a family in need, or invest in a kingdom opportunity. The question becomes: Are our assets serving God's purposes, or are they simply sitting idle? The capital pocket reminds us that stewardship extends beyond our weekly paycheck. 3) The Estate Pocket The estate pocket concerns what happens to our resources after we enter eternity. Every believer will one day leave behind possessions, property, investments, and accumulated wealth. Most people spend considerable time planning how those assets will be distributed among family members. Yet few consider how their final act of stewardship can impact the work of God. One statement I encountered that every believer should consider including in their will is this:
"After all my bills are paid, I want 10 percent of my estate (a tithe) to go to ______ Church." What a powerful testimony of stewardship. Estate giving is not about neglecting family responsibilities. Rather, it is recognizing that everything belongs to God and intentionally including His work in our final plans. For some believers, this may involve leaving a percentage of their estate to their local church. For others, it may include missionaries, Christian schools, camps, or ministries that have played a significant role in their spiritual lives. Estate planning allows us to continue investing in God's work even after we have gone home to be with the Lord. A Stewardship Mindset When most people hear a message about giving, they immediately think about what is in their wallet or checking account. Yet biblical stewardship is much broader than that. God has entrusted us with income. God has entrusted us with assets. God has entrusted us with an estate. Each of these represents an opportunity to honor Him. The goal is not simply to give more. The goal is to recognize that everything belongs to God and to ask, Lord, how would You have me steward what You have entrusted to me? Whether from our earned income, our accumulated capital, or our eventual estate, every gift becomes an opportunity to invest in something that will outlast this world. After all, we cannot take any of it with us—but we can use it now and direct it wisely so that it continues to bring glory to God long after we are gone. These are simply a few thoughts from my recent reading. I am thankful to be part of a church that is sensitive to the Lord and gives in a way that honors Him. God Bless, Pastor Braley Highlighted Reading:
Not Your Parent’s Offering Plate by Cliff Christopher & Mike Slaughter As with any book outside of Scripture, Pastor Braley does not endorse every view or conclusion the author presents. The Bible alone is our final and infallible authority — Scripture alone holds that distinction.
June 13, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Sunday Setup: Is Christ being formed in you?
Tomorrow we'll be in Galatians 4 and wrestle with a powerful question: Is Christ being formed in you? Many believers spend their lives measuring spiritual growth by church attendance, Bible knowledge, or religious activity. But Paul points us to a deeper question—not simply whether Christ is in us, but whether Christ can be seen through us. In Galatians 4:19, Paul writes:
My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you. As you prepare for worship tomorrow, consider: Is my faith centered on what Christ has done or what I am trying to do? Can others see the character of Jesus in my attitudes, responses, and relationships? What might God be asking me to surrender so that Christ can be more clearly reflected in my life? Am I living as a child of promise or slipping back into spiritual bondage? The Gospel does more than save us from judgment—it transforms us into the likeness of Christ. Take a few moments tonight to read Galatians 4:12-31 and ask the Lord to prepare your heart. We look forward to worshiping together tomorrow as we explore Paul's passionate prayer: "Until Christ be formed in you." Can't make it tomorrow? Watch Live HERE!Can't make it tomorrow? Watch Live HERE!
June 12, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
GriefShare is coming to Faith Baptist
Grief is one of the heaviest burdens a person can carry. Whether you have lost a spouse, a parent, a child, a sibling, or a dear friend, the pain of that loss can feel overwhelming, and far too often, it feels very lonely. You may be sitting in the seat on Sunday morning with a smile on your face while your heart is quietly breaking. If that is you, we want you to know: you do not have to walk through this alone. We are thrilled to announce that Faith Baptist Church will be launching a GriefShare ministry beginning Tuesday, September 1. This is a ministry we have been praying about, and we believe God's timing is perfect. Matthew 5:4
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. What Is GriefShare? GriefShare is a 13-week, Christ-centered support group designed to walk people through their grief journey with compassion and biblical truth. Each week features a video seminar with respected Christian counselors and pastors, followed by small-group discussion and personal workbook exercises to help participants process what they are going through. Every session addresses the real challenges that come with grief, the loneliness, the anger, the questions, the sleepless nights — and points you back to the One who is "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3). At its heart, GriefShare points to Christ as the ultimate source of healing. That lines up perfectly with who we are as a church and what we believe God's Word teaches about comfort, hope, and restoration. Why This Ministry Matters In any church family, individuals are silently struggling with the pain of losing a loved one — some may have lost a spouse, a parent, a child, another relative, or a close friend. The grief does not end after the funeral. It does not stop after a few weeks. Many people suffer in silence for months and even years, not knowing where to turn. GriefShare provides a safe space where individuals can process their grief, share their stories, and find support from others who understand their pain, not just to help them move through grief, but to offer biblical hope and encouragement. That is exactly the kind of ministry the local church is called to provide. Is This for You? If you have experienced the loss of a loved one, recently or even years ago, we warmly invite you to come. You do not need to have it all together. You do not need to know what to say. You simply need to show up, and we will walk through it together, with God's Word as our guide and our church family by your side. GriefShare is also open to friends, neighbors, and coworkers in our community who are hurting. This is a wonderful opportunity to invite someone you know who needs the comfort that only Christ can give. Psalm 147:3
He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. When: Tuesday, September 1 - Tuesday, November 24, 2026
Location: Faith Baptist Church — Fairless Hills, PA
Time: Tuesday Nights at 7:00 p.m.Register Here We love you, Faith Baptist family. If grief has found you in this season of life, we want to be right there with you. Feel free to share this with anyone you know who may need a place of healing and hope. Interested in serving in GriefShare? GriefShare groups don't run themselves — they run because someone in the church was willing to say yes. Leading a GriefShare group does not require a counseling degree or a personal expertise in grief. It requires a heart for hurting people, a willingness to show up faithfully week after week, and a love for the local church. GriefShare provides all the training and materials a leader needs. Your role is to facilitate — to create a safe, consistent place where people can be honest and where God's Word has room to work. Paul's words in Second Corinthians describe this kind of ministry beautifully:
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. If you have walked through grief yourself, that experience is not a disqualification. God does not waste our sorrows. He redeems them, and often uses them to open doors of ministry that nothing else could open. If you sense the Lord leading you to serve in this way, we want to hear from you. Group leaders will go through a brief GriefShare orientation before the ministry launches in September, and pastoral support will be available throughout the 13-week cycle. Serve Team Schedule:
Sunday, July 19, 2026 - Interest Meeting
Wednesday, August 5, 2026 - Worker Training To express interest in serving, let us know HERE! This is a meaningful opportunity to serve your church family in one of the most tender areas of life. Don't talk yourself out of it — reach out, and let's have a conversation.
May 30, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
Josiah: Lost and Found
There’s a moment in Josiah’s life that we need to slow down and really see. In the middle of repairing the temple, something is discovered that had been missing for a long time: 2 Chronicles 34:14
And Hilkiah the priest found a book of the law of the LORD given by Moses. “Found a book of the law of the Lord…” This wasn’t a new book. It was a neglected one. Josiah grew up in a nation that still had a temple, still had priests, and still had religious activity. But somewhere along the way, the Word of God stopped being read. That decline really started years earlier under Manasseh: 2 Kings 21:2
And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD… For decades, idolatry filled the land and false worship became normal. And when that happens, the Word of God gets pushed aside. You can have religion without the Word—and still be far from God. By Josiah’s time, Judah still looked like a nation with spiritual structure, but it had drifted far from truth. That’s what happens when Scripture is ignored: idols take over, conviction fades, compromise feels normal, and people keep going through the motions. If the Word doesn’t rule, something else will. The greatest tragedy wasn’t that the Law was lost—it was that nobody missed it. Then in our text, everything changes. In the middle of repairs, someone opens something that hadn’t been opened in a long time: 2 Chronicles 34:14
And Hilkiah… found a book of the law of the LORD. At that moment, everything shifts. Because when the Word of God comes back into the light, it doesn’t just sit there—it speaks. Psalm 119:130
The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. And when the Word comes back, idols go out. Josiah doesn’t just read it and move on—he responds. He starts tearing things down: high places, idols, everything that had taken God’s place. Why? Because the Word always demands a response. Exodus 20:3
Thou shalt have no other gods before me. And real faith always shows up in real change “Faith… if it hath not works, is dead…” (James 2:17) The same problem still shows up today. We may not be bowing to carved statues, but idols are still everywhere. Anything that takes first place in our lives can become one—success, entertainment, social media, relationships, comfort, even good things that become ultimate things. And Scripture warns us plainly: 1 John 5:21
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Because idols don’t just sit there—they compete for your heart. Jesus said: “Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” (John 8:34) Sin always looks like freedom, but it never delivers it. It promises life—but produces bondage. It promises joy—but leaves emptiness. It promises more—but always takes more than it gives. Sin promises freedom… but delivers chains. Josiah’s story is really a “lost and found” story. The Word wasn’t gone—it was just buried under years of neglect. And when it was found again, it changed everything. The same is still true today. “When the Word of God is found again, it never leaves things the same.” Because the real question isn’t whether God is still speaking… it’s whether we’re still listening. So, where is your Bible and how did it speak to you today? This post expands on a key point from a recent sermon and is intended to further encourage your study and reflection on God's Word. While this post explores one aspect of the message, the full sermon provides the broader context, and practical application.
We invite you to watch the complete sermon below.Watch the full sermon now!
May 27, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Honoring our Missionaries: Dr. Dave & Jill Smith
Matthew 25:21
...well done, thou good and faithful servant... After 55 years of faithful ministry, Faith Baptist Church is rejoicing with Dr. Dave and Jill Smith as they step into a well-deserved retirement from active missionary service. At their request, we recently sent our final support check to the Smiths, and with it goes with our deep gratitude and love. Supporting missionaries is one of our great privileges as a local church, and it has been an honor to partner with Dave and Jill in the work of the Gospel. Over more than five decades, Dr. Smith has faithfully preached the Word of God, loved people well, and carried the message of salvation to the world. In every role, he has served with humility and an unwavering commitment to biblical truth. And none of it was done alone, Jill has been right beside him every step of the way, modeling a Christ-centered marriage and a faithful ministry partnership that is a blessing and an example to us all. Dr. Smith's ministry has meant something very personal to our church family here at Faith Baptist. During a season of transition between pastors, before the Lord brought Pastor Braley to us, Dr. Smith was an incredible help and a steady, encouraging presence. He stepped in with grace and faithfulness at a time when our church needed it most, and we have never forgotten it. That kind of servant-hearted ministry is a mark of a man who truly loves the Lord and His people. Dr. Smith's own heart for those of us still in the race says it best — his desire is that each of us would finish well, that we would one day stand before our Lord and hear those precious words: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." What a testimony. Thank you, Dr. Dave and Jill Smith, for your steadfast faith, your sacrificial service, and your devotion to Christ. Faith Baptist Church loves you and is grateful to God for every year He worked through your lives. 2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
May 20, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Summer Bible Study Modules
One of the great blessings of our church family is the opportunity we have to continue growing in our walk with God together. This summer, we are excited to offer several Summer Modules designed to strengthen our faith, sharpen our witness, and help us better serve others for the cause of Christ. These classes are more than simply additional studies—they are opportunities for spiritual growth, practical ministry training, and deeper connection within our church family. I want to encourage every member to prayerfully consider being part of one of these modules this summer. We're offering three special 3-week Bible Study Modules designed to help you grow, learn, and connect. Each module meets on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m., and you'll choose one of two available session windows: Session A: June 17, June 24 & July 1
Session B: July 15, July 22 & July 29 Browse the three modules below. Introduction to American Sign Language Taught by Mrs. Laura Braley & Mrs. Christina McHenry Session A Location: Room 10
Session B Location: Conference Room Join us for an introductory ASL class designed for church members who want to learn how to better connect with the Deaf community and share the love of Christ through sign language. Each weekly session will include: A review of fingerspelling An introduction to conversational and biblical ASL signs Learning to sign John 3:16 Signing along to one of our church's popular worship songs Participants will also gain insight into Deaf culture and the history of the Deaf community and the church. Did you know? Of the estimated 150–250 million Deaf people in the world, only 2% are followers of Jesus Christ. An alarming 98% of Deaf people are currently missing the blessing of eternal life with Jesus — making Deaf people one of the largest unreached and unengaged people groups in the world. Through this class, we hope to inspire awareness, compassion, and a heart for Deaf ministry. Snapshots of Revival Taught by Pastor Chad Braley UPDATED
Session A Location: Teen Room
Session B Location: Auditorium Throughout this study, we will examine moments in Scripture where God transformed lives, homes, and even nations through people who were willing to let revival begin in them personally. Revival has never started with crowds—it begins in individual hearts surrendered to God. Our prayer is that this study will challenge and encourage us to seek the Lord in a deeper and more personal way. Reaching the Religious Taught by Bro. Michael Poapst UPDATED
Session A Location: Auditorium
Session B Location: Teen Room In a day when many people are religious yet still without a true relationship with Christ, this class will help believers learn how to lovingly and biblically point people to the truth of God’s Word. Brother Mike is a serious student of the Scriptures and will do an excellent job helping us understand how to handle the Word with both grace and truth, allowing the Bible to do the work in a person’s heart and life. I truly believe these Summer Modules will be a tremendous encouragement and help to our church family. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to grow in truth, strengthen our witness, and allow God to continue working in our lives throughout the summer months.
May 15, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
What is "Continue" Discipleship?
If you've recently trusted Christ as your Saviour — or if you've been a Christian for a while but feel like you need a stronger foundation — the Continue discipleship program at Faith Baptist Church might be exactly what you need. What Is Continue? Continue is a biblically-grounded, one-on-one discipleship program designed to give new (and growing) Christians a solid footing in the Word of God. The program was developed by Striving Together Publications and written by Pastor Paul Chappell. It consists of fourteen weekly lessons that walk through the core doctrines and practical truths every Christian needs to know. Each lesson is built around a clear outline, thorough Scripture references, and built-in conversation starters to help open up honest, personal discussion. At the end of each lesson, there are five daily devotional readings to help develop the habit of getting into God's Word every day. Each session is designed to take about 45–60 minutes. What Topics Does It Cover? The fourteen lessons include: The Word of God Knowing God Who Is Jesus? Your Salvation Developing a Prayer Life Your Relationship with God's Word The Holy Spirit The Life of a Disciple The Local Church Your Place in Your Church Family Financial Stewardship Go and Tell the Good News Living in Light of Eternity Continue Every topic is practical, biblical, and tied to real Christian living — not just information, but transformation. How Does It Work at Faith Baptist? When you enroll in Continue at Faith Baptist, you'll be paired with an experienced believer from our church family who will walk through the lessons with you week by week. Discipleship is meant to happen in relationship — and that's exactly how Continue is designed. When does Discipleship happen? Discipleship happens best when it becomes a regular, intentional part of your life. In the Continue program, most pairs meet once a week at a time that works for both people — before or after a service, in a home, at the church, or even over coffee. The key is consistency and a setting where you can focus on God’s Word and honest conversation. But discipleship is more than just a scheduled meeting. It continues throughout the week as you spend time in God’s Word using the daily devotions, apply what you’ve learned, and stay connected with the person discipling you. It’s not just about completing lessons — it’s about growing in Christ day by day. In other words, discipleship isn’t confined to one hour a week. It’s a lifestyle of learning, growing, and following Jesus together. How Do I Sign Up? You can sign up and learn more below. The Continue book itself is available through the church office. Whether you're brand new to the faith or looking to get grounded in what you believe, we'd love to walk through this with you. Reach out to us — we'll get you connected.Sign me up!
August 18, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
A Bag with Holes
Haggai 1:6
He that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. There is a kind of financial frustration that is almost exclusive to those who follow God. It is the frustration of a person who works hard, gives to the Lord, and still cannot seem to get ahead. The harvest never quite matches the labor. The wages disappear before the month is out. There is always more month than money. And somewhere underneath the stress is a nagging question: Why isn't God blessing this? Haggai had a word for people who felt exactly that way. The returned remnant of Israel wasn't lazy. They weren't godless. They were back in the land, going through the motions of religious life, and their finances were still leaking. God put His finger on the reason: their priorities were disordered. They had been so focused on their own houses that they had neglected His. And the result was a bag full of holes, labor that produced nothing lasting, wages that vanished as fast as they came. It is worth asking whether the same diagnosis might apply closer to home. Start with the tithe. If you are not tithing, giving a faithful, intentional ten percent to the Lord through your local church, this is a direct and loving challenge to begin. Not because God is in need. "For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." (Psalm 50:10) He is not waiting on your contribution to balance His books. But He has ordained the tithe as an act of worship and an exercise of faith, it is a regular declaration that He is Lord over everything you earn, and He blesses the obedience of His people who take Him at His word. In Malachi 3:10, God extends an invitation: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." That is the only place in Scripture where God says to His people: test Me. He is not offended by your uncertainty. He is simply calling your bluff, inviting you to step out in obedience and see what He does. We are not under the Mosaic law. We stand under grace. But grace never lowers the bar, it lifts the heart toward it. If a tenth was the starting point for God's Old Testament people, what does it say about New Testament believers, who have seen the full revelation of Calvary, if they give less? Those who understand what Christ has done are not looking for the minimum, they are looking for ways to give more. So let this be a straightforward challenge: tithe.
Give your tithe this Sunday. Give it next Sunday. Make it the first thing you do with what God provides, not the last. Honor Him with the firstfruits, not the remainder. But the tithe is the beginning, not the end. This is where I must be honest with you.
A man can tithe faithfully on Sunday and dishonor God financially the rest of the week. He can put 10% in the plate and spend the other 90% in ways that reflect no prayer, no planning, no biblical conviction whatsoever, driven by impulse, shaped by covetousness, burdened by debt he did not have to carry. And then wonder why the bag still has holes. Here is the truth that biblical stewardship demands we recognize: the other 90% belongs to God too. Every dollar that passes through your hands, given, spent, or saved, is the Lord's money being managed by the Lord's servant. The tithe is an act of worship. But stewardship is a whole-life conviction. It covers the budget you make or refuse to make. The debt you take on or choose to avoid. The way you spend, the discipline with which you save, and the contentment, or lack of it, that drives your financial decisions day to day. 1 Corinthians 4:2
Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. God is not looking for financial success. He is looking for faithfulness. And faithfulness with money means holding all of it with an open hand, managing it with the same intentionality and prayerfulness you bring to the offering, because it all came from Him, it all belongs to Him, and you will give an account for all of it. So here is the full challenge: Tithe. Do it consistently, do it cheerfully, do it in faith, and trust God with the results. And then carry that same conviction into the rest of your financial life. Build a budget. Get out of debt. Spend with purpose. Save with wisdom. Ask before every major decision: Am I being a faithful steward of what God has entrusted to me? The goal is not a bigger bank account. The goal is a freer heart, one that holds money loosely because the question of ownership has already been settled. When you've acknowledged that it all belongs to Him, the anxiety of grasping loosens its grip. Contentment becomes possible. Generosity becomes natural. That is what God is after. Not a portion of your paycheck. All of you, surrendered, trusting, and faithful with everything He's placed in your hands. The windows of heaven are worth finding out about. Take Him up on it. Questions about biblical stewardship?
We'd love to walk through it with you. Join us Sunday at Faith Baptist ChurchPlan a Visit
August 7, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
Keeping the Spotlight on Christ
The piano is tuned, every word rehearsed, every voice ready, and still, the most important question a worship team member can ask has nothing to do with sound. Who is this for? Worship Is More Than Singing When most people hear the word "worship," they think of the songs sung before the sermon. But worship is much more than that. Singing, preaching, praying, and giving are all acts of worship, and every one of them can be offered to God in sincerity, or to self in pride. A pastor can study over a sermon to be admired for his insights rather than to feed the flock God has entrusted him with. A giver can drop an offering in the plate to be seen as generous rather than out of love for the Lord, a danger Christ addressed directly: Matthew 6:1
Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. A worshipper can lift hands or sing loudly not from a heart stirred by God, but from a desire to appear spiritual to those nearby. Wherever a person serves in worship, pulpit, platform, offering plate, or the seat, the same temptation is there: to turn an act meant for God into a performance for man. John the Baptist stood at the peak of his ministry, with crowds gathering and people following, and said this of Christ: John 3:30
He must increase, but I must decrease. That single sentence defines the calling of every person who serves on a platform. Any Ministry that puts attention on the servant instead of the Savior has already missed the point. The Danger of a Watching Crowd Scripture warns plainly about the pull toward performing for people rather than for God. In John 12, even some of the chief rulers believed on Christ, yet would not confess Him openly: John 12:43
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. A worship team stands in a uniquely exposed position. There is a congregation watching, a sound system amplifying, and a camera live streaming. None of that is wrong in itself, but it creates real temptation to serve the eyes in the room rather than the throne of God. The desire to be noticed or complimented can quietly replace the desire to glorify Christ, and the shift rarely announces itself. It creeps in through small compromises, a note held for effect rather than for the Lord, a subtle seeking of praise from people that outweighs the joy of pleasing God. The Standard Is the Heart, Not the Performance When Samuel was sent to anoint a king, he was reminded of an unchanging truth: 1 Samuel 16:7
For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. A congregation can only judge the outward appearance, tone, timing, technique. God alone judges the heart behind it. A technically flawless song offered in pride is not acceptable worship. A simple song offered in humility, aimed entirely at the glory of God, is. Paul gives the team the standard that settles every motive question: 1 Corinthians 10:31
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Keeping the Spotlight Where It Belongs Practical tips for the platform: Examine motive before rehearsal, not just during it. Ask privately whether preparation is aimed at excellence for God's glory or excellence for personal recognition. Refuse the compliment trap. Receive kind words graciously, but redirect the credit quickly and genuinely to the Lord. Guard against comparison. Comparing gifting, placement, or attention with other team members feeds pride and steals joy from service. Remember the unseen Audience. The congregation may never know the difference between worship and performance, but God always does. David wrote plainly:
Psalm 115:1
Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory. This posture David is highlighting, should be present in every faithful servant from any stage. We offer our skills without reservation, surrender the credit without exception, and Christ alone is left standing in the spotlight.
August 2, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Grandparents Day at Faith Baptist
Some gifts skip a generation. Others are meant to be passed down. On Sunday, September 13, 2026, our whole church family will pause together to give thanks for one of God's most precious gifts, the heritage of faith carried from one generation to the next. The Psalmist wrote, "One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts" (Psalm 145:4). That is the heartbeat of Grandparents Day at Faith Baptist. Faith is not meant to end with us. It is meant to be spoken, modeled, and handed down. Scripture reminds us how important it is: Proverbs 17:6
Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers. 2 Timothy 1:5
I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Timothy's faith did not begin with him. It was planted by a grandmother, watered by a mother, and it grew into a life the Lord used greatly. That same kind of legacy is being written in homes across our church family right now, whether through a grandparent who walked faithfully before you, or grandchildren who remind you why it all matters. Join Us This service will be centered around honoring that legacy, with the entire ministry family gathering together to celebrate. When: Sunday, September 13, 2026 What: A ministry-wide service honoring the gift of generational faith Send an Personal Invitation Beginning August 9, 2026, greeting cards will be available in the lobby for you to personalize and send to a grandparent or grandchild. Take some home, write a word of encouragement, and remind them of the faith that connects your generations. Whether your name is on the card as the one who prayed first, or the one still learning to pray, your legacy matters to the Lord, and it matters to us. Download this digital invitation Share with your grandparents or grandchildren!
July 30, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
What Does It Mean to Be a Church Member?
The word "membership" gets used for all kinds of things; gym memberships, subscription memberships. None of those come close to describing what it means to be a member of a local church. Church membership is not a card in your wallet or a name on a roll. It is a covenant commitment, made before God and before a body of believers, to walk together in the work of the gospel. At Faith Baptist Church, we believe church membership is an expression of a Christian's commitment to Christ and to the local church family. It reflects the pattern of the early church, where believers were devoted to one another in a way that went far beyond simply attending the same meeting. Membership is not a formality. It is a meaningful way of living out our faith together. Here is what that commitment looks like. We Commit to Attend Church Hebrews 10:25
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Acts 2:46
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Faithful attendance is not about filling a seat. It is about showing up for one another, being present to encourage, to be encouraged, and to stand together as the day of the Lord draws near. We Commit to Care for One Another 1 Peter 4:8
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Romans 12:15
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Caring for one another is central to what it means to belong to a church family. This kind of care is best built in smaller settings, which is why joining a Bible Study class is such an important step for every member. We Commit to Serve 1 Corinthians 12:7
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. Every member has been given spiritual gifts for the profit of the whole body. Membership is an invitation to use those gifts. During the membership interview, our pastoral staff and deacons are glad to talk through where you might serve and grow. We Commit to a Godly Life 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. We are called to live holy lives, not to earn favor with God, but because we have already been washed, sanctified, and justified. A holy life pleases God, helps our brothers and sisters, and brings honor to Christ. We Commit to Give Malachi 3:10
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. II Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. The tithe gives us a starting point rooted in the Old Testament pattern. The New Testament calls us further still; to give cheerfully, generously, and sacrificially, not out of a sense of obligation, but out of love for the Lord. We Commit to Keep the Peace Ephesians 4:2-3
With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Members are called to live out the gospel in their relationships with one another, choosing humility and patience over division, and unity over strife. We Commit to Pray Ephesians 6:18-20
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. We hope every member is praying daily for Faith Baptist, and especially for other members and our pastoral staff. One of the best ways to grow in this is to join us for our weekly prayer meeting each Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. Not a Formality, but a Family Church membership at Faith Baptist is not about adding your name to a list. It is about joining a family, a body of believers who have committed together to attend, to care, to serve, to live godly lives, to give, to honor leadership, to keep peace, and to pray for one another. This is the pattern we see in the early church in the book of Acts, and it is the pattern we want to live out today. Who Can Become a Member? Membership at Faith Baptist is open to anyone who can testify to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Specifically, we ask every prospective member to affirm three things: A clear testimony of salvation - a credible profession of faith in Jesus Christ alone, by grace through faith, as the only way of salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Believer’s baptism by immersion - having been scripturally baptized by immersion following salvation, in obedience to Christ’s example (Matthew 3:16; Acts 8:36-39). If you have not yet been baptized this way, our pastoral staff would love to talk with you about that next step. Agreement with our Statement of Faith - a willingness to affirm what we believe the Bible teaches, as outlined in our church constitution, and to walk in unity with this local body under that agreed understanding of Scripture. Membership is not reserved for the mature believer or the lifelong church attender. It is for anyone the Lord has saved who is ready to commit to walking this road together with this church family. The Process of Membership A) Meet with a Staff Member The first step is simple: reach out to one of our Pastoral Staff. We will schedule a time to sit down together, hear your testimony of salvation, walk through what membership means, and answer any questions you have along the way.Learn more about what we Believe B) Meet with a Deacon Next, you’ll meet with one of our deacons. This conversation continues the process, giving you a chance to talk through your baptism, your walk with the Lord, and where you might serve and grow as part of this church family — and giving our deacons the opportunity to know you and pray for you as you take this step.Learn about our Deacons C) Publicly Join Once these conversations are complete, you’ll be presented to the church family and publicly received into membership — usually during a Sunday service. This is a joyful moment where the whole church gets to welcome you and commit, alongside you, to walk together in the work of the gospel. Interested in becoming a member? We would love to talk with you about taking this next step. Reach out to one of our Pastoral Staff, and we will schedule a time to hear your testimony and walk through what membership means together.Want to Join? Let's Talk!
July 27, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
Finding God’s Presence Through Grief
Isaiah 43:2
When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. There are several words that stick out to me in this passage, the first one is not a word of comfort in the way we might first expect. The word is when. The Lord does not say, “If thou passest through the waters.” He does not offer a conditional promise, reserved only for those who might happen to face hardship. He speaks with certainty. The waters will come. The rivers will rise. The fire will burn. Believers are not exempt from grief and loss; they are a part of life in a world marked by sin. The context of Isaiah 43, God spoke this word to Israel in the hardship of exile, it reveals His character, that He does not abandon His people during trials but walks through it with them, is the same character He shows to every believer today. The Certainty of Grief Scripture never hides this reality from us. Job was a man described by God as perfect and upright, yet was not exempt from devastating loss. Job 14:1
Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself, though sinless, was not shielded from grief. He wept at the tomb of Lazarus, entering fully into the sorrow of those He loved. John 11:35
Jesus wept. If the Son of God was not exempt from grief, His people should not expect to either. The promise of Isaiah 43:2 is not that trouble will pass us by, but that when it comes, and it will, we do not face it alone. The Promise of Presence The second word worth noting in Isaiah 43:2 is through. God does not promise a detour around the waters or a shortcut past the fire. He promises to walk with us through them. This is not a passive presence but an active sustaining. The waters do not overflow. The flame does not kindle. Something is preserved in the midst of the trial, and that something is the soul of the believer, held fast by the hand of God. The psalmist understood this same truth when he wrote of walking through the darkest valley: Psalm 23:4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Notice again the word through. Not around. Not stuck within. Through. The valley has an end, and the Shepherd walks every step beside His sheep. A Present Help The Lord does not offer His presence only in joyful seasons. He identifies Himself as a refuge specifically during times of trouble. Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. For the believer walking through grief today, whether from the loss of a loved one, the weight of a difficult situation, or sorrow that has no easy explanation, this promise stands firm. The waters have not overtaken you.
The fire has not consumed you. The Lord who spoke this word to Israel is the same Lord who still upholds us now. A Place to Walk Through It Together Grief was never meant to be carried in isolation. Starting Tuesday, September 1, 2026, we will be launching a GriefShare ministry, a place where those walking through loss can find fellowship with others who understand, along with the steady hope found only in God’s Word.Learn more about GriefShare
July 6, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
How the Food Bank Connects People to the Gospel
When someone walks through the doors of our Food Bank, they may come for food, but that is never the end of the story we want to tell. Scripture is clear: God cares about the whole person, and He has called His church to meet real needs as a bridge to the greatest need of all, a right relationship with Him. Scripture Commands Us to Care The Bible does not treat compassion as optional. It is a direct command to God’s people. Galatians 6:10
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Proverbs 19:17
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction. Jesus Himself modeled this. He fed the five thousand before He preached to them (John 6:1–14). During his earthly ministry He healed bodies and was willing to touch the untouchable. Compassion was never separate from His mission, it opened the way for it. Physical Need Matters, But It Isn’t the Main Thing We take hunger seriously. Every box of food packed, every hour given, every family served through the faithful labor of our Food Bank serve team is an act of biblical love. But if we can’t stopped there, our purpose is bigger than groceries: The physical gift is temporary. It meets a need for a week. The spiritual need is eternal. Every person who walks through our doors has a soul that will live forever, somewhere. Matthew 4:4
Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. The Food Bank as a Gospel Bridge This is why every distribution includes more than food: A friendly, Christ-like welcome Scripture and gospel literature placed in every hand A genuine invitation to hear more, to visit a service, or to talk with someone about Christ We are not running a charity that happens to be at a church. We are a church using practical compassion to earn the right to speak, and then speaking. Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. What This Means for You Volunteer — Serving in the Food Bank puts you face-to-face with people God loves. Pray — Ask God to open hearts and give opportunities. Share Christ — A kind word and a gospel tract can outlast the groceries by eternity. The next time you see a Food Bank family drive onto our parking lot, remember: we’re not just filling a need. We’re planting a seed, and trusting God for the harvest.Sign-up to ServeDonate to the Faith Baptist Food Bank Need Help Putting Food on the Table? If your family is facing a hard season and could use some help, our Food Bank exists for exactly this, no judgment, no strings attached, just our church family ready to help meet a real need. We’d count it an honor to serve you, and we’d love the chance to get to know you along the way.Learn more about how to come and shop.
July 3, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
The Lord's Day: Why Sunday Worship Still Matters
Sunday keeps coming around.
The question is, what are we doing with it? In a world that treats Sunday like a bonus Saturday, errands, sports, sleeping in, catching up on anything but church, it is worth asking a simple question: Does it still matter to gather with God's people on the Lord's Day? The answer from Scripture is a clear yes. What does the Bible Say? The first day of the week carries special weight all the way through the New Testament. The Resurrection happened on the first day (Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1). Everything changed on that first day of the week. Death is defeated. Christ is alive. . The early church gathered on the first day. "And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them" (Acts 20:7). This was their pattern — not a suggestion, a practice. The offering was collected on the first day (1 Corinthians 16:2), showing that Sunday shaped the whole rhythm of their giving and worship life. The Lord's Day was not invented by tradition. It was shaped by the resurrection. Why Gathering Still Matters Some folks have come to feel that personal devotions at home, a podcast sermon, or a live stream is "just as good" as being in the house of God with His people. We'd push back on that idea, and here's why. 1. God commands it. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is" (Hebrews 10:25). The word "forsaking" implies people were already making excuses in the first century. The command stands because the need has never changed. 2. You need the body, and the body needs you. The church is not a service you consume. It is a body you belong to (1 Corinthians 12:27). When you are absent, something is genuinely missing. Your presence is a ministry, even when you don't feel like it. 3. Worship is formative, not just informational. Sitting under the preaching of God's Word, singing together, giving, praying with one another, these things shape you in ways a screen simply can’t. You are not just learning truth on Sunday. You are being formed by it as part of a church body. 4. It declares something to the world. When Christians make Sunday worship a clear, consistent priority, not squeezed around ball games and beach trips, it is a testimony. It says: Christ rose from the dead, and that changes everything about how I spend my time. Let’s be Real. We understand that life is genuinely demanding. Work is real. Illness is real. Seasons of hardship are real. This is not about guilt, it is about priority. Every follower of Christ has to ask honestly: Is the Lord's Day on my calendar as a firm appointment with God, or is it the first thing I move when something else comes up? Grace says: start fresh this Sunday. The doors of Faith Baptist Church are open, the Word will be preached, and our family will be glad you came. Join us for worship this Lord's Day. Sunday Schedule
10:00 a.m. - Bible Study Hour
Nursery, Faith Kids, Faith Teens, & Adult classes available.
11:00 a.m. - Morning Worship Service
Deaf interpretation available.
5:00 p.m. - Evening Worship ServicePlan your Visit
June 30, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
How to Continue the Lesson at Home
Dad and Mom — the lesson your child hears on Sunday is meant to keep working in your home all week long. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 charges parents to teach God's Word "when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." You don't need a curriculum or special training to do this — just a few minutes and the questions below. Use this guide every week to pick the conversation back up at the dinner table, in the car, or at bedtime. Find Out What They Learned Start by asking your child these three questions. They'll help you discover the lesson together, even if you weren't in the room: What was the Bible story about, and who was in it? Did your teacher give you a verse to remember? Can you say it? What's one thing you learned about God — or one thing He wants you to do? Their answers become your starting point for the rest of the week. Talk It Over Once you know the lesson, use these questions to go deeper at dinner or in the car: What did we learn about God, Jesus, or ourselves in this story? Why do you think God put this story in the Bible? What is one thing you can do this week because of what we learned? Make It Practical Pick one of these each week to help the lesson stick — no supplies needed: Retell it. Have your child tell you the story in their own words, like they're the teacher. Act it out. Take turns playing the characters from the Bible story. Draw it. Sketch the main scene together and talk through what's happening as you draw. Say it together. Repeat the memory verse a few times a day — try it as a family before meals or at bedtime. Live it out. Look for a moment during the week to point out when the lesson applies — "This is like what we learned on Sunday." Pray Together Use these prompts as a family, or let your child pray in their own words: Thank God for one thing from this week's lesson. Ask God to help our family live out what we learned. Pray for someone who needs to know Jesus as Savior. Read Together Keep God's Word in front of your family with a short daily reading. Questions about your child's class or how to use this guide? Reach out to the Faith Kids ministry anytime — we're glad to partner with you in raising your child "in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" - Ephesians 6:4
June 24, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
How to use Online Giving
Faithful giving is one of the most tangible ways we honor God and invest in the ministry He has entrusted to us here at Faith Baptist. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to be faithful. Faith Baptist Church uses Nucleus Giving as our secure online giving platform. You can give in minutes from your phone, tablet, or computer — and set up automatic recurring gifts so you never miss a week. How to Give Online You don't need an account to give — but creating one makes the process faster every time after and gives you a personal dashboard to track your giving history. Here's how to get started. Step 1 — Visit Our Giving Flow Access online giving through the launcher accessible on each page of our website and click the Online Giving button in the menu. Step 2 — Enter Your Gift Amount Type in the amount you'd like to give. You'll see available giving funds listed — choose the one that applies to your gift (General Fund, Missions, etc.). Step 3 — Choose Your Giving Frequency You can give as a one-time gift or set up a recurring gift on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly schedule. Recurring giving is a great way to stay consistent in your stewardship even when life gets busy. Step 4 — Select Your Payment Method You can give by credit or debit card, or connect your bank account directly (ACH). Giving by bank account is the simplest and most cost-effective option — the processing fee is just 25¢ per transaction. NOTE: When selecting Bank Account, there are two options, using Plaid or entering manually. If you don’t already use Plaid entering manually will make for an easier process. Step 5 — Complete Your Gift Enter your payment details, add an optional memo, confirm your contact info and submit. You'll receive a confirmation email right away. Want to Create an Account? Creating a free Nucleus Giving account lets you: View your complete giving history Access your annual giving statement for tax purposes Save your payment method so future gifts take just seconds Manage or update recurring gifts at any time To create your account: Go to the launcher and click Sign In Enter your email address and create a password Check your inbox for a verification email and click the confirmation link Once verified, click My Account to fill in your profile details Managing Your Online Giving Once your account is set up, you're in full control. From your personal dashboard you can: View past gifts and download giving records Update a recurring gift — change the amount, frequency, or payment method Cancel a recurring gift if needed Access your annual tax statement once it's been released by the church office Need Help? If you run into any trouble setting up your account or completing a gift, reach out to the church office — we're happy to walk you through it.Send us an EmailCall the Church Office 2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
June 22, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
Adult Bible Study Series: Faith that Triumphs
Every Sunday morning at 9:45 a.m., before the morning worship service, adults of all ages and stages of life gather at Faith Baptist Church to open God's Word together. Whether you've been walking with the Lord for decades or you're just beginning to explore what it means to follow Jesus, there's a place here for you. But Adult Bible Study is more than a class on a Sunday morning. It's one of the most consistent investments you can make in your spiritual growth — and it's better when you do it with others. Why Small Groups Matter The Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation. In Acts 2, the early church devoted themselves not only to the apostles' doctrine, but to fellowship — to doing life and faith together. When you study God's Word alongside others, something happens that can't happen on your own. Questions get asked that sharpen your understanding. Burdens that feel heavy alone become lighter when a group of believers prays over them together. "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend" (Proverbs 27:17). And perhaps most importantly, you become known — by people who notice when you're missing, check in during a hard week, and walk with you through whatever life brings. Bible Study classes are one of the primary places where that happens at Faith. If you've never joined one, this is the time to start. Our Adult Bible Study Classes Young Adults (adults 30 and under)
Taught by Bro. Matthew Beighle | Room 103
A community for adults under 30, working through life's big questions from God's Word and building real friendships along the way. Faith Families (adults in their 30s & 40s)
Taught by Bro. Brad O'Dell | Room 104
Practical, biblical teaching to strengthen marriages and family life for couples in this season of life. Cornerstone Couples (adults in their 40s & 50s)
Taught by Bro. Joe Sanfilippo | Room 107
Focused on applying faith to life's real challenges and deepening your spiritual roots together as a couple. Berean (all adults)
Taught by Bro. Will Duttry | Auditorium
A welcoming, open-to-all session in the auditorium offering foundational Bible teaching every week. If you're not sure where to start, this is a great place to begin. Ladies Bible Study (adult ladies)
Taught by Mrs. Laura Braley | Conference Room
An encouraging environment for women of all ages to grow spiritually and enjoy meaningful fellowship. Faith That Triumphs Overcoming Life's Challenges with Courage from God's Word Life is full of challenges — some expected, others completely unforeseen. In every season, we face decisions, uncertainties, and trials that test our resolve. But the God we serve never changes, and His Word gives us strength, direction, and hope for every one of those moments. Faith That Triumphs is a 10-lesson study designed to help you build a steadfast trust in God. You'll explore what it means to trust Him when life doesn't make sense, when provision seems scarce, in seasons of suffering, and in a world that increasingly opposes truth. Each lesson includes thorough Bible teaching, discussion questions, and real-life application to strengthen your walk with the Lord. This is a great time to join a class for the first time — or to invite a friend to come with you. A new study means a natural starting point, and Faith That Triumphs is the kind of study that's relevant to everyone, no matter where you are in life right now. No matter what you're facing — your faith can triumph. Join us beginning Sunday, July 5 at 9:45 a.m.
June 20, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Our Father’s Pattern
I've been thinking about Father's Day a lot this week. Partly because it's coming up, but also because I've been paying attention to the people around me. This Day Lands Differently for Everyone For some of us, today is a good day. Our kids are going to make us feel special, or we’re going to call our dad’s and mean every word of it. That's a gift. Don't take it for granted. For others, there's grief tied to father's day. Maybe you lost your dad, and this is the first Father's Day without him. Or the fifth, and people assume it gets easier. Maybe your relationship with your father is complicated in ways that are hard to explain. I'm not going to gloss over any of that. But I do want to point us all toward something that changes the way we see this day, no matter where we're coming from. God Set the Pattern First Here's what I keep coming back to: God the Father isn't a concept we invented to make sense of our earthly fathers. It's the other way around. Every good thing we associate with fatherhood, the love, the protection, the discipline that actually comes from care, it all originates in Him. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son." (John 3:16) That's a Father who loved at a cost. Who gave something irreplaceable. And it doesn’t stop there. Jesus paints a picture of the Father in Luke 15 who sees his son coming back from a long way off and runs to him.
Doesn't wait. Doesn't make him grovel. Runs. That's the standard. And let’s be honest, it's a humbling one, whether you're a father or not. What Scripture Asks of Fathers The Bible isn’t vague. There are some clear expectations laid out, and I think they're worth looking at. Teach the Word.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 puts it right on the father's shoulders. Get the Word of God in your heart, then teach it to your kids. Not just at church. In the house. On the road. Morning and night. It's supposed to be a part of the fabric of your home. Nurture our children.
Ephesians 6:4 is a verse a lot of dads need to sit with. "Provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." There's a version of fatherhood that's harsh, critical, impossible to please, and Paul says that's not it. The word nurture here is tender. It's a long-haul. It's a slow, consistent work of shaping a child with care. Live with integrity.
Proverbs 20:7: "The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him." What your kids watch you do when things get hard, when money is tight, when you think nobody's looking, that's the lesson they will remember longest. Provide and lead.
1 Timothy 5:8 is blunt. A man who doesn't provide for his own household has, in Paul's words, denied the faith. That's more than a paycheck. It's stability, presence, spiritual leading. It's showing up. None of us does all of this perfectly. But the goal isn't perfection, it’s progressIt's faithfulness to the One who is. To all the Fathers If your family is celebrating you, receive it. You don't have to have everything figured out to be a faithful father. And if there are places where you feel like you've fallen short. Let it be a moment where you quietly say, Lord, I want to do better. Help me. That prayer matters more than you know. Honor is a command. But honor doesn't require a perfect relationship. It's a posture of the heart that says: God put this man in my life, and I'm going to recognize that. If your dad is still around, don't assume there's always more time. Tell him what he's meant to you. Even if it comes out clunky. Especially if it comes out clunky. If your missing your dad today, grief doesn't take weekends off, and it doesn't take Father's Day off either. This fathers day might carry a weight that's hard to describe to someone who hasn't felt it. You don't have to pretend otherwise. He sees what's missing. He draws near to it. He doesn't ask you to have it all together today.Bring the ache to Him. He can handle it. A Few Questions Worth Considering Wherever fathers day finds you, I want to leave you with a few questions, not to pile on, but to help bring some clarity: What is one quality of God as Father that you are most grateful for right now? How does it change the way you see your own life or your own relationships? If you're a father: Where do you feel God nudging you to grow? Thinking about the father in your life: What's one thing he did that, looking back, pointed you toward God, even if neither of you realized it at the time? If Father’s Day is hard: What's one truth about our Heavenly Father that you can hold onto, not to rush past the pain, but to carry with it? What's one step you can take this week, as a father, a child, or both, toward the kind of faithfulness Scripture calls us to? Father's Day is bigger than we give it credit for. It's a window into something God designed, the love of a father is meant to reflect the love of the Father. I'm grateful for every dad at Faith Baptist who is doing that work, imperfectly, but one day at a time. And I'm grateful for a Heavenly Father who meets all of us exactly where we are. Happy Father's Day.
June 16, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Bringing Your Week into the Seat
Psalm 34:1
I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Sunday morning comes around, the music begins, and we're invited to worship. But if we're honest, many of us arrive carrying the weight of a full week of discouragement. We slide into our seats and hope something in the service will flip a switch and put us in the right frame of mind. Here's an important truth: worship was never meant to be a switch we flip on Sunday. It's a fire we keep burning all week long. Worship Is a Way of Living, Not Just a Service to Attend The apostle Paul writes in Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Paul is helping us understand that the surrendered, God-honoring life you live Monday through Saturday is an act of worship. The Sunday gathering is meant to be a celebration of what has already been happening in your heart throughout the week, not the only hour you spend thinking about God. When we understand that, it changes everything about how we approach gathering together. What a Worshipful Week Actually Looks Like A heart that worships daily isn't a perfect heart. It's a directed heart, one that keeps returning its attention to the Lord through the ordinary moments of life. Here are a few practical anchors: 1) Start your mornings with God before you start them with anything else.
Before the phone, before the news, before the demands of the day crowd in, give the Lord the first moments. Even five minutes in the Word and a brief prayer sets the compass for the day. Psalm 5:3 says, My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. 2) Let thankfulness interrupt your day.
Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools of a worshipful heart. When something good happens, a safe drive, a kind word, a problem solved, pause and acknowledge the Lord. I Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to give thanks "in every thing." That's not just a Sunday discipline. That's a throughout-the-day discipline. 3) Bring your burdens to God as they come, not just when they pile up.
One reason we arrive at church distracted is that we've carried our worries all week without handing them over. Philippians 4:6 tells us to be "careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." When you pray through your troubles as they arise, you arrive on Sunday lighter, and readier to worship. 4) Let the Word speak into your situations.
When you're in a difficult conversation or an uncertain moment, ask: What has God already said about this? Meditating on Scripture throughout the week keeps your heart tethered to truth rather than tossed by circumstances. How Your Week Shapes Your Sunday Think of it this way, the heart you bring to your seat on Sunday is the heart you've been building all week. If you've been feeding on the Word, you'll recognize what's being preached. If you've been praying, you'll mean what you sing. If you've been walking in thankfulness, the hymns won't feel like a warm-up, they'll feel like a continuation. But if Sunday is the only time God gets your attention, it's hard to shift gears quickly. The music may feel unfamiliar. The sermon may feel disconnected. Not because anything is wrong with the service, but because the heart needs time to be moved. A Word of Encouragement If this describes where you are right now, arriving on Sunday running on empty, this isn't meant to heap guilt on you. It's meant to open a door. God meets us where we are. The same Lord who met a weary Elijah under a juniper tree (1 Kings 19:4-5) meets you in your seat, even when you've had a hard week and your heart is scattered. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23), and that includes Sunday morning. But don't settle for that being the pattern. You were made for more than a one-hour-a-week connection with your Creator. You were made to walk with Him, through the workday, through the kitchen, through it all. A Simple Challenge This Week Pick one daily anchor and practice it for the next seven days: A short passage of Scripture read each morning A prayer of thanks spoken out loud at lunch A moment of quiet before bed to reflect on where you saw God's hand that day Come Sunday, notice the difference in how you enter the service. You may find that worship doesn't begin when the music starts — it simply continues. Psalm 118:24
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Faith Baptist Church exists to connect people to Christ, grow them in truth, and lead them to commit fully to the Savior, and that mission doesn't pause between Sundays.
July 27, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Faith Teens August Newsletter
Dear Parents, It’s hard to believe we’re already wrapping up another great summer event. This past week, over 25 of our teens served alongside four church plants in three different cities during our Northeast Missions Trip. One of the biggest highlights for me was watching our students serve with joy and boldly invite people to church. It was encouraging to see God growing their faith and giving them confidence to share Christ. As we head into the school year, we're excited to kick off our Teen Discipleship series this Wednesday at 4:00 PM. I also want to highlight our Northeast Rally in September. Because the rally is about five hours away, it will take place Thursday–Friday this year, and students will miss two days of school. We can provide school excuse letters if needed. We only have 12 spots available, so if your teen would like to attend, I encourage you to sign up soon. Last year's rally was a tremendous encouragement to those who went, and we're looking forward to another great year. Upcoming Schedule Summer Discipleship- Begins Wednesday, July 29th This Wednesday we're kicking off our Teen Discipleship series! As we get ready for the new school year, we're going to spend the next four weeks looking at Four Lessons Every Teen Should Hear. We'll meet here at the church for games, snacks, fellowship, and a Bible lesson. We're looking forward to a great few weeks together and hope your teen can make it! Northeast Rally (Hosted by Emmanuel Baptist Church) 10th–12th graders are invited to join us for the Northeast Rally in Newington, CT, on September 17–18. We'll leave the church at 10:30 AM Thursday and return by 8:00 PM Friday. The cost is $110. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up soon!SIGN-UP HERE Have Questions? Contact Bro. Nick Brunoni
Cell #: 267.969.0156 - Email: nbrunoni@fbcfh.com
July 4, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Faith Teens July Newsletter
Dear Parents, It’s hard to believe it is already July, and our road trip to Pensacola Christian College and Teen Camp has already come and gone. Our week at camp was incredibly encouraging, with over 1,200 teens in attendance. Our students did an outstanding job throughout the entire experience—from the 18-hour car ride to adjusting to a new environment with so many teens at one camp. We truly saw God work in the hearts of our young people. Our goal in Faith Teens is not simply to provide experiences like camp, but to build a community of like-minded young people who are growing in their faith and learning to serve God together. As we move forward from camp and continue what God has started in our students’ lives, we are looking ahead to our next opportunity to serve together. Below, you will find details for our upcoming Northeast Mission Trip. Upcoming Schedule Northeast Mission Trip- July 20-23, 2026 Parents, we are just two weeks away from our Northeast Missions Trip, and we're looking forward to a great week together! Throughout the week, we'll be serving alongside local churches in three different cities over three days, allowing our teens the opportunity to make a difference in each community. The cost for the trip is $65, which includes admission to our Thursday fun day at Six Flags but does not include meals. Please have your teen bring money for food each day or pack a lunch. Sign-up HereDownload Trip Itinerary Summer Discipleship - Starting Wednesday, July 29, 2026 All 7th-12th graders are invited to a four-week discipleship program, taking place every Wednesday. We will meet in the Activity Center at 4 pm for games, snacks, and a Bible lesson. Have Questions? Contact Bro. Nick Brunoni
Cell #: 267.969.0156 - Email: nbrunoni@fbcfh.com
June 3, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Faith Teens June Newsletter
Dear Parents, Over the last month, we have been working hard at our Teen Work Days, which have been a huge success resulting in our students raising over $2,000 towards camp. Upcoming Schedule 90’s Night - Friday, June 5, 2026 All 7th–12th graders are invited to our 90’s Night! Come dressed in your best 90’s outfit—winner receives a prize. We’ll be heading to Hot Wheelz and Bowling after our service. Bring money for dinner. Departure: 5:00 PM from the church
Return: Midnight
Cost: $30 per teenSign-Up Teen Extreme Summer Camp - June 20-27, 2026 Parents, we are just two weeks away from Summer Camp and are looking forward to a great week together! On Sunday, June 7th, your teen will receive an updated itinerary and camp cost. Payment can be made by cash, check (written out to Faith Baptist Church), or online HERE (please mark as events).Download Trip Itinerary Be sure to reference the Camp Dress Code while you're packing! Getting Excited! Watch the recap video for 2025 Teen Extreme Camp HERE! Northeast Mission Trip - July 20-23, 2026 Have Questions? Contact Bro. Nick Brunoni
Cell #: 267.969.0156 - Email: nbrunoni@fbcfh.com
May 14, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
How the Bus Ministry Works — A Guide for New Riders
Have you heard about the Bus Ministry at Faith Baptist Church but weren't sure exactly how it works? This is a quick, simple guide to help you know what to expect. What Is the Bus Ministry? The Bus Ministry is one of the ways Faith Baptist Church reaches out to the community. We believe that every child deserves to hear the Gospel and the Word of God, and we know that not every family has a way to get to church on Sunday morning. So we come to them. Our buses travel through the local area each Sunday to pick up children and bring them to church — free of charge. Who Leads It? The Bus Ministry is led by Brother Nick Brunoni and his wife, Kisha. Bro. Nick and his family have been faithfully serving at Faith Baptist since 2015, and they and their team are dedicated to reaching people with the truth of the gospel. They are supported by a team of committed volunteers who love kids and take this ministry seriously. What Happens When Your Child Rides? Here's the simple flow of a Bus Ministry Sunday: The bus comes to your neighborhood at a set time and picks up your child. All riders are supervised by workers on the bus. When your child arrives at Faith Baptist, they are taken to a children's Sunday school class that is designed just for them — with songs, games, and a Bible lesson taught in an age-appropriate way. After the service, the bus brings your child back home, and our workers will walk them to your front door and make sure they are safely returned to a parent. Is It Safe? Safety is a priority. Our workers are vetted, trained, and committed to caring for every child as if they were their own. You can trust that your child will be in a safe, encouraging environment the entire time. How Do I Sign Up? If you'd like to get your child on the bus route, or if you have questions, we'd love to connect with you. We'd love to have your child with us this Sunday!Request Information
May 13, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Faith Teens May Newsletter
Dear Parents, Last week, we kicked off our Teen Work Days, which will continue through the end of the month. Each Wednesday, our teens will have at least three job opportunities as we work together to help lower the cost of camp for everyone. This coming Saturday, we’ll be doing car detailing, and there are still spots available for anyone who would like to sign up. Please help spread the word. I also wanted to clarify a few details for our Graduate Sunday on May 31st. During the 11:00 service, we will have a special time to honor our seniors and their families. Following the service, lunch will be provided for our FaithTeens and their families as we come together to celebrate our seniors. How to Sign Up:
To help us prepare, please click HERE to sign up for Car Detailing! Upcoming Schedule Graduation Sunday - May 31, 2026 Join us for Graduation Sunday as we celebrate the Class of 2026! Let’s come together as a church family to honor our graduates and rejoice in their hard work and accomplishments. Don’t miss this special service as we recognize them and pray over their future. Lunch for all FaithTeens and their families will follow. 90’s Night - Friday, June 5, 2026 All 7th–12th graders are invited to our 90’s Night! Come dressed in your best 90’s outfit—winner receives a prize. We’ll be heading to Skate Plex and Bowling after our service. Bring money for dinner. Departure: 5:30 PM from the church
Return: Midnight
Cost: $30 per teenSign-Up Teen Extreme Summer Camp - June 20-27, 2026 Parents, we are a little over a month away from camp! We are looking forward to a great week together. If you have any questions, please contact me directly. An updated itinerary will be coming soon. Have Questions? Contact Bro. Nick Brunoni
Cell #: 267.969.0156 - Email: nbrunoni@fbcfh.com
May 13, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Why Church Matters When You're a Teenager
Let's be honest — Sunday morning isn't always the easiest time to be a teenager. There are late Saturday nights, comfortable beds, and a hundred other things pulling at your attention. So why bother? Why does church actually matter during these years? Here's the truth: the teen years are some of the most important years of your life, not just for your future — but for your faith. 1) You're Making Decisions That Shape Everything The choices you make between 13 and 19 — who you spend time with, what you believe, how you handle hard things — lay a foundation that carries into adulthood. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Church isn't just something to do — it's one of God's primary means of building that foundation in your life. 2) You Need More Than Just Good Advice The world is full of voices telling teenagers what to think, who to be, and what to value. Social media, friends, entertainment — none of it is neutral. You need the Word of God and a community of people who are anchored to it. Psalm 119:9 asks, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?" The answer? "By taking heed thereto according to thy word." Church is where you get that Word — consistently, week after week. 3) You Need People Who Are For You One of the gifts God gives through the local church is relationships. You need older Christians who have walked through hard things and come out on the other side. You need friends your age who are genuinely trying to follow Christ. You need adults in your life who care about your soul — not just your grades or your schedule. That kind of community doesn't happen by accident; it happens in a church family. 4) Your Faith Is Yours to Own At some point, your parents' faith has to become your faith. Church is one of the main places that happens. When you sit under preaching, when you open your Bible in Sunday school, when you hear testimonies and pray with others — God uses all of that to grow something real in your own heart. To Our Teens at Faith Baptist We are glad you are here. We believe God has a plan for your life, and we want to walk alongside you as you discover it. Don't drift through these years — dig in. Come to Faith Teens. Bring a friend. Let this be the place where your faith gets roots.Learn more about Faith Teens Ministry
August 6, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Master Clubs Is Relaunching September 16
Faith Baptist Church is excited to announce the relaunch of Master Clubs on Wednesday, September 16. This ministry has long been a vital part of how our church disciples the next generation, and this season brings fresh leadership and a full return to the mission that makes it so special. What Is Master Clubs? Master Clubs is a Bible-centered discipleship program for children age three through sixth grade. Unlike programs built around community service or achievement, Master Clubs is built entirely around Christ. Children earn badges for Scripture memorization, Bible knowledge, and Christian service, all while learning to walk with the Lord in practical, age-appropriate ways. Each week includes: The Master Clubs key verse — "For one is your Master, even Christ" (Matthew 23:10) Singing and devotions to prepare hearts for the Word Table time, where children work with their leaders toward Scripture memory and badge work Group games and activities that reinforce the lesson in a fun, memorable way Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. New Leadership Bro. Brad and Jaime O'Dell have accepted the responsibility of leading Master Clubs. The O'Dells previously served in Master Clubs for over 15 years and bring that experience back with them after over a decade of leading our Worship Ministry. We are confident the Lord will use their experience to strengthen this ministry for your children. How to Get Your Children Involved If you have children age three through sixth grade, we would love to have them join us for the Master Clubs relaunch on September 16. No prior experience is necessary, and children are welcome to join even after the year begins. We are looking forward to what the Lord will do in the hearts of our children this year through Master Clubs.Register your Children Now!
July 16, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Songs Worth Singing
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. There is something powerful that happens when a congregation sings together. But not all songs do that well. And that is worth thinking about. This is not an argument for one style over another. It is not a case for the old against the new, or the traditional against the contemporary. It is simply an invitation to take seriously what Paul told the church at Colossae, that the songs we sing are meant to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly. The question worth asking is not how old is this song? It is how much of Christ is in it? God's Design for Congregational Singing Paul's instruction in Ephesians 5:19 gives us a remarkably broad category for worship music, “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” That breadth is intentional. Congregational singing should not be confined to a single style, era, or form. It should be rich, varied, and full, much like the Psalms themselves, which range from triumphant praise to gut-honest lament, from quiet trust to thunderous declaration. What unifies that variety is not style. It is substance. Every psalm, every hymn, every spiritual song is meant to carry the weight of truth and direct the heart toward God. When a song does that well, whatever its form, it belongs in the worship of God's people. What Great Songs Do Whether a song was written in the eighteenth century or last year, the best worship songs share certain qualities. They are worth looking for, and worth protecting. 1) They are anchored in Scripture. The greatest songs the church has ever sung draw their content from the Word of God. They are not vague impressions about a generic higher power. They are specific declarations about the God of the Bible, the cross of Christ, the grace that saves, the hope that holds. When a song is saturated with Scripture, it does more than entertain. It instructs. 2) They teach as they are sung. Paul connects singing directly to teaching and admonishing one another in Colossians 3:16. That means congregational singing is not a passive experience. It is a corporate act of edification. When the words are theologically grounded, the congregation is being built up every time they sing them, whether they realize it or not. 3) They engage both the heart and the mind. Paul's standard in 1 Corinthians 14:15 is clear, “I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” The best songs stir genuine emotion because they are rooted in genuine truth. Feeling and doctrine are not enemies in worship. They are meant to travel together. 4) They point to Christ, not to the experience of worship itself. There is a subtle but important difference between a song that says look at what God has done and one that says look at how I feel about God. Both have their place. But a steady diet of the latter can quietly shift the center of worship from the Savior to the worshipper. Songs that keep Christ at the center, His person, His work, His glory, do the most lasting good. The Gift of the Historic Hymns It would be a real loss to walk away from the great hymns of the faith, not because they are old, but because they are extraordinarily good at doing what congregational singing is meant to do. The men and women who wrote them were not simply poets. They were theologians with a pastoral burden. Isaac Watts wanted truth to be singable. Charles Wesley believed every doctrine deserved to be sung. Fanny Crosby, blind from infancy, wrote thousands of hymns because she had seen something with the eyes of faith that she could not stop putting into words. Open a hymn like And Can It Be and you will find the incarnation, the atonement, the new birth, and the assurance of salvation — all developed across five stanzas. Sing It Is Well With My Soul and you are singing words written by a man who had just lost his four daughters at sea. Those words have steadied grieving believers ever since, because they were already planted in the memory, already true. That kind of depth is a gift. And it is a gift worth passing on to the next generation, not as a museum piece, but as a living inheritance. The Value of Newer Songs At the same time, God has not stopped inspiring His people to write. There are songs being sung today that are rich in doctrine, saturated in Scripture, and genuinely Christ-centered. When a newer song meets that standard, it deserves a place in our worship just as much as any hymn written centuries ago. The issue was never the age of the song. The issue is always the content. A theologically empty hymn from 1750 does less for the congregation than a doctrinally rich song written last decade. What we are after is not the preservation of an era, it is the presence of truth. Why Balance Matters A healthy worship diet includes both old and new, and here is why: The older songs anchor us. They connect us to the faith of a long line of believers who trusted the same God before us. They remind us that we did not invent this faith, we received it. The newer songs remind us the gospel is still alive. They reflect a faith that is not frozen in the past but active in the present, still moving hearts, still producing fruit, still being proclaimed in every generation. Together, they give the congregation something full and balanced, a worship life that is rooted in history and alive in the present. Singing With Understanding When the lyrics appear on the screen, resist the urge to simply wait for the music to cue you in. Read the words first. Let them land as statements of faith before they become songs of worship. Ask yourself: What is this saying about God? Do I believe this? What is this calling me to remember or do? That simple habit turns singing from a passive activity into an act of genuine, engaged worship, which is exactly what God is after. John 4:24
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. A Word Before You Leave Your Seat The songs we sing together are not filler between the announcements and the sermon. They are a vital part of what happens when the church gathers. They teach us. They anchor us. They give us a shared language for expressing faith, grief, hope, and praise. They plant truth in us that surfaces at exactly the right moment, in a hospital room, in a sleepless night, when we need it most. So sing. Sing the old songs and mean them.
Sing the newer songs and let them do their work.
Sing with your whole heart and your whole mind. And let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, not just while the music plays, but long after you leave your seat. 1 Corinthians 14:15
I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. At Faith Baptist Church, we are committed to worship that is rooted in Scripture, balanced in expression, and directed wholly to the glory of God — because the songs we sing shape what we believe.
May 17, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
God the Uncreated One
The Story This modern hymn - alternately titled "God the Uncreated One" and "King Forevermore” - was written by Aaron Keyes and Pete James. "'Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, he is faithful through it all' is a timely reminder for us. Our God, who was, is, and is to come, is actively working in our world. As beautifully as he hung the stars in space, he has faithfully been our strong fortress in every storm. We can trust his unchanging character because he has perfectly revealed himself to us in the cross, and powerfully defeated even death itself. The Eternal King is a God of love, leading his people into everlasting life. " (Aaron Keyes) Scriptural Application God the Father works his sovereign will in all things, at all times. What God designs, he brings into existence. We see this in his glorious creation, and we see it in his glorious plan of salvation. Before he made the world, God had already determined, in every meticulous detail, exactly how he would create a people for himself, saving them from their sins. Like the author of a book, God—the Uncreated One—stands outside “the laws of space and time,” working out his plans as history unfolds. He has known the end from the beginning, and that brings us great comfort as we trust in his promise that justice will roll as surely as Christ was raised from the dead. Each stanza in this hymn helps to draw our focus to one aspect of the triune God’s eternal reign. The first verse emphasizes His role as Creator. The scope of His glorious design of the universe ranges from the grand (he set the stars and planets in place) to the minute (he numbers every grain of sand). Yet God is not merely a Maker, but an Artist, for he has made his creation beautiful (“like chandeliers”; Ecclesiastes 3:11). When David marveled at the majesty of the heavens, he couldn’t help but wonder why a God who could make such wonders would care about us individually (Psalm 8:3-4), yet this same God “knows the heart of every man” (Jeremiah 17:10; Acts 15:8). And so with David, we acknowledge that “He is King forevermore,” and worthy of our praise (Psalm 8:9). Verse 2 contains a number of Old Testament allusions to the might and power of Almighty God. He is “our fortress and our strength” (Psalm 91:2); the “rock on which we can depend” (1 Samuel 2:2). He is “matchless in his majesty, power, and authority” (Jeremiah 10:6). He is the “never-changing” (Malachi 3:6) “Great I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Sovereign even over the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms (Job 12:23), He remains “faithful through it all” (Deuteronomy 7:9). The hymn’s third verse speaks of the incarnation, when this mighty God put on mortal flesh (Colossians 2:9). The ancient curse of sin (Genesis 2:17; Romans 6:23) was brought to bear on the sinless Savior, both Mighty God and the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Christ was lifted high (John 3:14) as our perfect, spotless sacrifice in order to secure our redemption (Hebrews 9:12). On the cross, Jesus cried out words from Psalm 22 (Matthew 27:46), a Messianic psalm which calls for help to a Father who is a rescuer of those who place their trust in Him (Psalm 22:5,19). The Son’s trust was not misplaced, and He was “rescued by the Father’s hand to reign as King forevermore!” In the final stanza, we focus on Christ’s victory over sin & death, and look forward to his perfect and righteous rule over all the earth. In that day, the cries of God’s people to see “justice roll” (Amos 5:24) will be answered, and, as we see in the Revelation, all the angels of heaven and all of the saints redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will sing together, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty” (Revelation 4:8, 5:13). He will reign as the “King of kings” (Revelation 19:16) and those who have been saved by grace through faith in Christ will experience the promised “joy in everlasting life” (Psalm 16:11) as we reign with him forevermore (Revelation 22:5). There’s a reason Revelation is filled with songs and singing. When we reflect on these glorious truths, how can we keep from singing? Praise be to the King of kings forevermore! Lyrics Verse 1
God the uncreated One
The Author of salvation
Who wrote the laws of space and time
And fashioned worlds to His design
The One whom angel hosts revere
Hung the stars like chandeliers
Numbered every grain of sand
Knows the heart of every man
He is King forever
He is King forever
He is King forevermore
Verse 2
God our fortress and our strength
The Rock on which we can depend
Matchless in His majesty
His power and authority
Unshaken by the schemes of man
Never changing Great I am
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall
He is faithful through it all
Crown Him King forever
Crown Him King forever
Crown Him King forevermore
Verse 3
Mighty God in mortal flesh
Forsaken by a traitor's kiss
The curse of sin and centuries
Did pierce the lowly Prince of Peace
Lifted high the sinless man
Crucified the spotless Lamb
Buried by the sons of man
Rescued by the Father's hand
To reign as King forever
Reign as King forever
Reign as King forevermore
Verse 4
King eternal God of grace
We crown You with the highest praise
Heaven shouts and saints adore
You're holy holy holy Lord
What joy in everlasting life
All is love and faith is sight
Justice rolls and praises rise
At the name of Jesus Christ
King of kings forever
King of kings forever
King of kings forevermore
Crucified the spotless Lamb
Buried by the sons of man
Rescued by the Father's hand
To reign as King forever
Reign as King forever
Reign as King forevermore
May 17, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
Show Us Christ
The Story “Show Us Christ reminds us that the purpose of preaching God’s Word is not simply to give insights for living, impress people with our knowledge, or to tell people they need to try harder. The primary goal is to display the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. The written and preached Word is meant to point us to the riches of the living Word. And because we need the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the glory of Christ in Scripture, it’s right and good that we ask God for help to do just that." (Bob Kauflin, writer “Show Us Christ”) Scriptural Application We sing about many aspects of our faith: giving glory to God, retelling the wondrous story of the Gospel, celebrating the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, expressing our love for God and dependence on His grace and mercy. They are all Scripturally-based songs, but how often do we sing songs that ask God to transform us by His powerful Word? This simple yet beautiful song is a humble prayer of preparation and begging God to impress His Word upon our hearts by the power of His Spirit in such a way that our lives bear the fruit of the Gospel as a response. At the heart of this prayer is the centrality of Christ. What great privilege we have as Christians on this side of the Cross, with the joy of seeing Christ as the fulfillment of God’s written Word (Matt 5:17) and the very Word of God in flesh (John 1:14). We should never take for granted the fact that God has chosen to reveal Himself to us in the Bible. Neither should we ever trust in our ability to properly understand His revelation apart from the discernment given by His Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14). The fact that the "experts" on the Old Testament missed the coming of the Messiah, despite devoting their entire lives to studying God's Word, should serve as a warning against coming to the Scriptures on our own terms. Yet God has promised that He Himself will give us understanding (2 Timothy 2:7). And so we pray for open eyes and hearts, both for ourselves and for others (Psalm 119:144; Colossians 1:9). We confess our need for God to give us the growth that we desire (Mark 4:14-20; 1 Corinthians 3:7), and to help our unbelief (Mark 9:24). We claim the unmatched ability of God's Word to make us wise (Psalm 119:130), to feed our souls (Job 23:12; Matthew 4:4), and to impart to us the riches of His knowledge (Romans 11:33). And when the Bible seems hard to understand and ever harder to apply, we must acknowledge that we have nowhere else to turn, and express our trust that God's Word will give us the direction and discernment we need in our lives. (John 6:66-68; Philippians 2:9-11). This is a perfect song to sing before hearing God’s Word preached. The truth is, we need God’s help to prepare our hearts, give us the ears to hear, and hearts to understand and apply His Word. With so many worldly voices competing for our attention, we must cling to God’s voice, spoken to us in His living Word. For as the disciples recognized: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” (John 6:68-69). Lyrics Verse 1
Prepare our hearts, O God, help us to receive
Break the hard and stony ground, help our unbelief
Plant your Word down deep in us, cause it to bear fruit
Open up our ears to hear, lead us in Your truth
Chorus
Show us Christ, Show us Christ
O God, reveal Your glory through the preaching of Your Word
Until every heart confesses Christ is Lord
Verse 2
Your Word is living light upon our darkened eyes
Guards us through temptations, makes the simple wise
Your Word is food for famished ones, freedom for the slave
Riches for the needy soul, come speak to us today
Bridge
Where else can we go, Lord?
Where else can we go?
You have the words of eternal life!
June 2, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Parent Perspective: Ayala Family
“As a parent of four children—two boys and two girls—who were actively involved in the youth group from 7th through 12th grade, I can say with confidence that I have never encountered a group of leaders who genuinely loved and cared for my children the way they did. Their commitment to faithfully teaching God's Word and preaching directly from the Bible provided a strong spiritual foundation, while also creating a safe and welcoming environment where each of my children felt valued and encouraged. Throughout the years, they partnered with my husband and me in helping to raise our children to know and love Jesus, reinforcing the biblical values we taught at home.” “We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact they have had on our family and for the Christ-centered investment they made in each of our children's lives.” - Jon & Evelyn Ayala Members of Faith Baptist Church since 2011Share your Faith Teens Testimony HERE! Every family has a story of God's grace and faithfulness. Have you seen the Lord working in the life of your teen or your family? We'd love to hear it. Your testimony could be an encouragement to another parent walking a similar path and a reminder of what God is doing through Faith Teens. Click below to share your Parent Perspective with our church family.
Copyright Faith Baptist Church 2026