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  • Through the Years with Billy and Ruth Grahm
Hugh's News

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Lighten Up With Laughter

10/31/2017

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​A young lady came home from a date, rather sad.

She told her mother, "Anthony proposed to me an hour ago."

"Then why are you so sad?" her mother asked.

"Because he also told me he is an atheist. Mom, he doesn't even believe there's a Hell."

Her mother replied, "Marry him anyway. Between the two of us, we'll show him how wrong he is."
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Two kinds of farmers--Stingy and Lavish Planters of their seed

10/31/2017

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PictureThe Rev. Dr. Hugh H. Morgan, Founder, CEO, Editor of Hugh's News, Inc.
​2 Corinthians 9:6-9
Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. 7 I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving. 

8 God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you're ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. 9 As one psalmist puts it,

He throws caution to the winds,
giving to the needy in reckless abandon.
His right-living, right-giving ways
never run out, never wear out. 
(from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

Today is the first day of November. I believe that Eugene H. Peterson expresses my belief about giving. I want you to have plenty of time to think it over, and make up your mind about what you will give this month to Hugh's News, Inc.

This year is our 20th year of producing Hugh's News. God has sustained this electronic news service by His divine grace and financial provision through the generous and well-thought out giving by you my treasured readers. Hugh's News receives no financial support from the IPHC. Although Hugh's News serves the ministries of the IPHC, Hugh's News is a separate non-profit evangelistic corporation with a board of directors to whom I am accountable. 

We have only two months to the end of 2017--November and December. We need your prayers and financial giving as God directs you to make it through to the end of this year. Your financial support is needed now. You can be a lavish planter and receive a lavish crop.

The seed you hold in your hand will determine your harvest as you give it. As you let it go, God takes it and blesses it so you will receive a bountiful or lavish harvest.

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Who is Russell Board--Let me tell you!

10/31/2017

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PictureMissionary/Writer/Author Russell Board
Russell Board was born in Christiansburg, Virginia. He grew up there, married his high school sweetheart, and joined the IPHC through her.

He earned a B.A. degree in Philosophy and Religion at Radford University, and an M.A. degree in Philosophy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Russell and Sandra were called into missions while he was in graduate school. They were ordained in the Cornerstone Conference, and sent out by World Missions in 1984. After a stint of training in London, They spend a year in Paris and three years in Rome working in church planting. Meanwhile they relocated to Japan in 1989, and have lived there ever since. Russell took on the role of the Continental Director for Asia/Pacific in 2002. 

​There you have it in a nutshell.

It is my hope that your love, esteem, and deep appreciation for Russell Board will be enhanced as you read his writing about 40 Days with Jesus. We have a treasure in these powerful and soul-searching chapters. We are more than a quarter along in our reading. My how time flies! 

If you like what you are reading, please let me know and I will publish your response so that others will know how you feel and how you have received these teaching of Jesus as explained by a Bible scholar and Biblical theologian.

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"WISDOM" BY RUSSELL BOARD

10/31/2017

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Today, Wednesday, November 1, 2017, is the eleventh in a series of chapters in Russell Board's book entitled, 40 Days With Jesus.

You will not be the same after reading each of these inspiring and informative chapters. They are concise and comprehensive chapters and you will be captivated by each one.

​Stand by for the eleventh chapter entitled,​ "Wisdom":

WISDOM
Matthew 7:1-29  


Verses 1-6

These days Jesus’ injunction to “judge not” is often used to silence anyone who dares to criticize another’s actions. Jesus’ Words are taken as a blanket prohibition against judging others, as if the Lord were a moral relativist who affirmed the right of individuals to determine for themselves the ethical standards for their lives. This is not the Jesus portrayed in the Gospels, and such a reading of verse 1 is belied by the rest of the passage, never mind the dozens of other statements He made about right and wrong, good and evil.

In this very chapter, Jesus calls His hearers “evil” (verse 11), affirms that many are on the path to “destruction” (verse 13), denounces “false prophets” (verse 15), urges us to judge people by their “fruits” (verses 16, 20), and declares that many of His supposed followers will be rejected as “workers of lawlessness” (verse 23). These are not the words of a man who categorically prohibited all judging.

Indeed, Jesus elsewhere tells us, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24). This requires a willingness to make sure our own motives are right before we criticize someone else. Hypocrisy undermines right judgment.

Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:1-2 parallels that in Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” “Judge not” can be taken to mean “Extend forgiveness.” God expects the beneficiaries of His mercy to extend mercy to others. Those who refuse to forgive cannot expect God to forgive them.
  
In general, Jesus’ dealings with the publicly despised “sinners” of the day (prostitutes, tax collectors, drunkards) were characterized by understanding, compassion, forgiveness and a desire to lead them into a better way of life. He always managed to convey love for the sinner without condoning sin. On the other hand, Jesus’ harshest Words were reserved for the self-righteous, holier-than-thou attitude manifested by the Pharisees. It wasn’t that the “sinners” were somehow living in a way morally superior to the Pharisees, but that the “sinners” were all too aware of their failings, while the Pharisees were blind to their own faults. Jesus tailored His approach to the needs of His hearers.

We do well to watch out for our own “inner Pharisee.” We are all too prone to focus on the faults of others while overlooking our own. It’s a lot easier to reprimand others than it is to rectify our own failings. Perhaps at some level we hope that pointing out the flaws of others will make us look better in comparison. But we can never build ourselves up by tearing others down.

Verses 7-12

Jesus encourages us to ask
, seek and knock, offering assurance that our efforts will be rewarded. However, be advised: these are not bland, passive verbs. Earnestness and perseverance are required. A perfunctory request, a half-hearted hope, a distracted prayer -- these are not what Jesus has in mind. The verbs might well be translated keep petitioning, keep pursuing, keep pounding -- don’t give up!

God is not a vending machine for dispensing goodies on demand. Like any caring father, He may sometimes turn down a request for our own good, in order to give us something better instead. He may also determine that we aren’t ready to handle whatever it is we are seeking, and need time to develop greater maturity. Waiting can test the depth of our longing: is it a passing fancy, or a heartfelt hunger? Waiting can also test our tenacity, and enhance our appreciation for the gift when it comes.

Verses 13-29

​The parable of the wise and foolish builders presents a striking and memorable image. Two things we should be careful to note: first, the rain, flood and winds slammed into both houses with equal force. Jesus makes no promise that those who follow Him will be spared all the trials and tribulations of life. This world is a difficult and dangerous place, and its storms will strike every life sooner or later. Followers of Christ are not exempt from trouble, but they have the resources to see them safely through the fiercest tempest.


Second, laying a solid foundation for life comes from putting the teachings of Christ into practice. The foolish man heard the Words of Christ as well as the wise man, but he failed to do anything about it. Reading the Bible daily and listening to dynamic sermons every Sunday won’t help when the storms come, unless the Word is taken to heart and applied in daily life. It is not hearing or even believing, but doing what Christ says that makes the difference.

However, we will find that following the way of Christ means “going against the flow.” The majority are content with adopting whatever standards of conduct are approved by their peers, or portrayed in the media. But Jesus issues a warning against following the crowd. The road to destruction is thronged with carefree travelers. But there will be no comfort in having lots of company for those who find themselves at a dead end. It is much wiser to live to please God rather than people, since He will be the final judge.

Meditation: What can I learn from Jesus about loving sinners without condoning sin? Where in my life do I find it hard to “go against the flow?”

Prayer: Lord, help me to stand up for truth and righteousness, without becoming self-righteous. Help me not just to admire Your words, but to put them into practice. Help me to follow You day by day.

PictureRussell and Sandra Board
Russell Board and his wife, Sandra, are career IPHC missionaries. They are currently serving in Asia, and living in Saitama, Japan. Russell serves as the Director of Missions for Asia/Pacific IPHC World Missions Ministries.

Russell is as prolific writer and is no stranger to IPHC church members.

Russell wrote Sunday school Adult Student curriculum for One Accord Resources for use by IPHC and other Pentecostal denominations for 15 years. He also wrote Adult Teacher curriculum from time to time.

The book he wrote for new believers was revised in 2012 and reprinted in a new format under the title GROW. It is available here: 
http://lifespringsresources.com/grow-maturing-believers-through-the-truths-of-the-christian-faith

Presiding Bishop Doug Beacham and Russell Board co-wrote an e-book called CHRISTMAS BEFORE AND AFTER, where Russell penned 25 readings for Advent and Doug wrote 12 reading for the Twelve Days of Christmas. It is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Before-After-Doug-Beacham-ebook/dp/B00A7XJ3LC/ref=sr_1_5?

40 Days with Jesus is available through LifeSprings here: http://lifespringsresources.com/40-days-with-jesus-encountering-jesus-in-the-gospels

Also, the Kindle version is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/40-Days-Jesus-Encountering-Gospels-ebook/dp/B074G2NFDZ/ref=sr_1_3

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Daylight Savings Sunday, November 5, 2017

10/31/2017

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PictureMove your clock one hour backwards Saturday night
Move your clock or clocks one hour backwards on Sunday night

Daylight Savings Sunday, November 5, 2017

Remember to set your clocks back one hour on Saturday night. 

We will regain that hour we lost last spring. 

It's really easy to remember. In the spring we spring forward, and we move our clocks forward one honor. In the fall, we fall back and move our clocks one hour backwards.

That way  you will be on time for Sunday school and morning worship service.

​Invite someone to Sunday school and morning worship at your church this Sunday.

​

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The Emmanuel Singers, under the Direction of Trés Ward, will sing at Christian Life Worship Center in Athens, Sunday, November 5

10/31/2017

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For those attending our church from out of town, Christian Life Worship Center, formerly Tarkenton Memorial Church, is located one mile north of the Athens Perimeter or Loop 10, just off US Highway 129.

​The address of the church is 125 Kathwood Drive, Athens, GA 30607.

Pastor Terry Kesling extends an enthusiastic welcome to all who would like to hear the Emmanuel Singers. It has been reported that this year's singers are the best in many years under the direction of
TRÉS WARD. 


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Will You Receive the Benediction?

10/31/2017

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Micah 6:8  What our Lord requires of each one of us

8 He has shown you, O man, what is good;
And what does the Lord require of you
But to do justly,
To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God? 
NKJV

Micah 6:8
8 The Lord God has told us
what is right
and what he demands:
"See that justice is done,
let mercy be your first concern,
and humbly obey your God."
CEV (Contemporary English Version)

Micah 6:8

8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, and to love kindness and mercy, and to humble yourself and walk humbly with your God? 
AMP

Micah 6:8

8 Human being, you have already been told
what is good, what Adonai demands of you — 
no more than to act justly, love grace
and walk in purity with your God. 
CJB (Complete Jewish Bible)





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Lighten Up With Laughter

10/30/2017

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When a close friend of a woman learned that she was planning to marry a man 15 years younger than she.

This close friend accused her of being a cougar. 

Immediately she retorted: Why not! My last two husbands were cheetahs.
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​​​​Bishop Doug Beacham will be speaking at the Wittenberg 2017 Congress in Berlin Today, Tuesday, October 31, in the afternoon

10/30/2017

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PictureBishop A. D. Beacham, Jr., General Superintendent, IPHC
Bishop Doug Beacham, the General Superintendent of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church, will be speaking today, Tuesday, October 31 in the afternoon (Berlin time) at the Wittenberg Congress on the topic: "Reformation Networking for a Global Impact - Convergent Synergy."
​
Berlin is six hours ahead of us. So, we can see and hear our bishop in the evening next Tuesday, October 31.

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​​​​You can see and hear the Wittenberg 2017 Congress via Live Streaming

10/30/2017

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​ear Visionary Leader,​

We cordially invite you to make plans to watch the Wittenberg 2017 Congress Livestream on October 30-November 1, 2017. We will be hosting this historic congress in Berlin and in Wittenberg, Germany. Our first, five sessions will convene at the Maritim Berlin Hotel and our last session will take place at the famous Castle Church, where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Thesis on the door. 

We encourage you to register now and make plans to join us. When you choose to register, you will have access to all of the video sessions until December 31, 2017 and receive 3 FREE downloadable books. That's right! If your schedule does not permit you to catch all of it live, then you can watch at your leisure until the end of the year. We desire for everyone possible, no matter where they live in the world, to be able to be apart of The Wittenberg 2017 Congress. Sign Up Today!

Until The Last Person Has Heard,

Leonard Sweet      James O. Davis      Kenneth C. Ulmer

You may Click Here to register for Live Streaming
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​​Homecoming 2017 at Southwestern Christian University, November 3-4, 2017

10/30/2017

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Finally, the week has arrived when alumni and friends of Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, OK will converge on our beautiful campus for the 2017 Homecoming

Official word has been sent to me that three men will be honored on Saturday evening, November 4, for the Vision 4 Education Banquet at 6:30 p. m.

In addition to honoring Wallace Hamilton for his steadfast service to SCU over the years as the chief financial officer, two other men will receive honors.

Bishop James D. Leggett will receive the Dan Beller Legacy Award and Laban West will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. Congratulations to these two extraordinary servants and Men of God. 

​Homecoming at Southwestern Christian University is a wonderful time to connect with friends and former classmates of our alma mater and to renew old relationships.

Let us pray for all who will be traveling to Oklahoma City and to Bethany in particular.
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"Treasure" by Russell Board

10/30/2017

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Today, Tuesday, October 31, 2017, is the tenth in a series of chapters in Russell Board's book entitled, 40 Days With Jesus.

You will not be the same after reading each of these inspiring and informative chapters. They are concise and comprehensive chapters and you will be captivated by each one.

​Stand by for the tenth chapter entitled,​ "Treasure":

TREASURE
Matthew 6:19-34

Where is the best place to invest your money? When it comes to the stock market, countless investors have learned the hard way that the possibility of great gain is matched by the risk of great loss. Some financial advisors recommend buying real estate, others gold or silver. Of course, many of us simply struggle to make ends meet, with little or nothing over at the end of the month to save or invest.

Jesus offers investment advice that applies to rich and poor alike. “Treasures in heaven” are guaranteed never to lose value, regardless of inflation or economic downturns. And unlike other annuity funds, these pay dividends that never cease.

Think about it: acquiring “treasures on earth” always brings more worry, with problems of upkeep, storage, repair, insurance, depreciation, and the risk of damage, loss or theft. And no matter how much we have, it is never enough; we always seem to think we need more. Perhaps the fact that we are never satisfied with what we have is a clue that true contentment is not found in accumulated wealth.

To be sure, there is nothing wrong with possessing nice things. But we are in big trouble if things begin to possess us. If our hearts are wrapped up in things that are doomed to decay and disintegrate, then heartbreak is inevitable.

It is interesting that prosperity does not seem to weaken our tendency toward anxiety. Few of us actually have to worry about where our next meal is coming from. And although we might not know what we will wear tomorrow, this is because we have a closetful of things to choose from.

Still, we worry. And we are right to do so, if our security is based upon what is in our refrigerator, closet or bank account. The cure for this anxiety is not in piling up more stuff, but in recognizing the true source from which all good things come. God is our provider, whether we realize it or not. Once we do realize it, we can receive what He provides with gratitude and joy, without grasping and clinging like orphans who have no Father to care for them. We cannot know what tomorrow holds, but we know who holds tomorrow.

These days it isn’t the poor who seem most anxious about what they are going to wear, but rather the trendy who continually change wardrobes to match the style-of-the-season. The massive multi-billion dollar advertising industry bombards us with images and messages aimed at persuading us to make this or that purchase, based on deceptive promises of success, happiness and fulfillment. But nothing we can buy in the store or online is going to meet the deepest needs of the soul.

Whether it is designer clothes, the latest model car, or the newest technological gadget, it is easy to get caught up in the game of keeping up with the world’s changing fashions. But how many of us are equally concerned with keeping up with what God is doing in the world?

All of us direct our efforts toward achieving and preserving that which we value most. Our gaze is focused upon this treasure, and it determines the direction and quality of our lives. If we pursue vain and empty things, we will lead vain and empty lives. We must take great care to set our hearts upon what is of true and lasting value.

The Kingdom of God is not just a future hope; it is a present reality. Indeed, although invisible to those who have yet to be awakened from spiritual death, God’s Kingdom is more lasting, more significant and more real than the political, economic and entertainment activities that dominate the newspapers and airwaves.

Let us not be distracted by illusions and trivialities. We are stewards of the wealth, time and talents God has given us, with the opportunity to use them to further the work of His Kingdom in this world. What could be more important?

Each of us sets the priorities for our own lives; no one dictates them to us. No doubt as Christians we all want to see God’s will done in our homes, our churches, our families, and our neighborhoods. But can we honestly say that this is first priority for us, the number one desire of our hearts? Or do we devote the better part of our energy to the pursuit of other things, while seeking the Kingdom of God in our spare time?

Meditation: Judging by the way I spend my time, my efforts and my money, what is the treasure that I value most?

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You to provide for my needs; help me not to be fooled into chasing after what is of little value; and help me to invest in the lasting glory of Your eternal Kingdom.

PictureRussell and Sandra Board
Russell Board and his wife, Sandra, are career IPHC missionaries. They are currently serving in Asia, and living in Saitama, Japan. Russell serves as the Director of Missions for Asia/Pacific IPHC World Missions Ministries.

Russell is as prolific writer and is no stranger to IPHC church members.

Russell wrote Sunday school Adult Student curriculum for One Accord Resources for use by IPHC and other Pentecostal denominations for 15 years. He also wrote Adult Teacher curriculum from time to time.

The book he wrote for new believers was revised in 2012 and reprinted in a new format under the title GROW. It is available here: 
http://lifespringsresources.com/grow-maturing-believers-through-the-truths-of-the-christian-faith

Presiding Bishop Doug Beacham and Russell Board co-wrote an e-book called CHRISTMAS BEFORE AND AFTER, where Russell penned 25 readings for Advent and Doug wrote 12 reading for the Twelve Days of Christmas. It is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Before-After-Doug-Beacham-ebook/dp/B00A7XJ3LC/ref=sr_1_5?

40 Days with Jesus is available through LifeSprings here: http://lifespringsresources.com/40-days-with-jesus-encountering-jesus-in-the-gospels

Also, the Kindle version is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/40-Days-Jesus-Encountering-Gospels-ebook/dp/B074G2NFDZ/ref=sr_1_3?

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​How to Successfully Forward Hugh's News without loosing or being Unsubscribed or Deleted

10/30/2017

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Forward Hugh's News to a friend

​My webmaster, Mel Tinney, who resides in Pepin, WI, has come up with a solution to a problem that has been happening to some of our subscribers. When you forward Hugh's News using your email address, in some cases the recipient of your email with that forward which has our newsletter inadvertently has unsubscribed you from Hugh's News.
     
It was not their intend to do that, but we have had enough of such unfortunate incidences that we want to bring a halt to that from happening to anyone now or in the future.
     
You can now use this link at the top of each newsletter rather than forwarding your personal eMail which will prevent people from unintentionally unsubscribing you.
     
If you know of anyone who tells you that they are no longer receiving Hugh's News, please tell them to go to Hugh Morgan's website: www.hughsnews.com, and subscribe once again. It is rather easy to do. We only ask two questions: Your Name and Your eMail Address. 

​We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused you, and implore you to bear with us, and accept our apology in the spirit of humility in which we appeal to you. Losing any subscriber through glitches and technological accidents brings grief to the editor, Hugh Morgan. We really need your help. We want to thank you for helping us solve this problem of subscriptions.
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​​​​​Now is the time to encourage your friends and family members to subscribe to Hugh's News

10/30/2017

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Right Now, is the best time to tell somebody about this new series of Russell Board's book, 40 Days with Jesus. If they are not a subscriber to Hugh's News this is a good time to encourage them to subscribe.

Have them go to our website: www.hughsnews.com.

​Have your friend Click on Subscribe. Only two questions will be asked: the person's name, and email address. Immediately, your friend will receive an email to which he or she must respond to complete the process. The company we use seeks to avoid Spam complains and Spam violations. They want to make sure this person is not a robot, and that he or she wants to receive Hugh's News in his at his or her email address. When the subscription is complete I will be notified and I will send a personal email welcoming your friend to Hugh's News.

Thank you for ministering to your family and friends in this way.
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​​You may plant a seed into the ministry of Hugh's News that will produce a Harvest

10/30/2017

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Picture Hugh H. Morgan, Founder, CEO, Editor of Hugh's News
The Bible says, "While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease" (Genesis 8:22, KJV).

My father and mother purchased a small farm east of Birmingham when I was in high school. My father and I, along with my brother-in-law cleared up an acre of land by cutting down hardwoods and pines, and splitting the wood into sizes for our fireplace and wood stoves. We used a two-man cross-cut saw. We knew nothing about today's chain saws.

My dad gave me the responsibility of plowing up the new ground and planting corn seed to produce stalks with large ears of corn for our hogs, and some for our family table. I did not have a John Deere Tractor, rather, I used a mule and a turn plow. I have had my shins hit many times by ricocheting live roots from under the surface of the ground left after we cut the trees down. Without any fertilizer in such fertile ground, plus adequate rain God gave me a hundred fold return. I learned first hand about sowing and reaping.

What occurs in the physical world also applies to the spiritual world as well.

The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8:

6 Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. 7 I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving. 

8 God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you're ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done.
(from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)
​
One of our IPHC missionary couples is planting a seed into the ministry of Hugh's News, by sending a monthly contribution. They related that it is through Hugh's News, as they travel to various countries to teach and conduct training conferences, that they keep abreast of what is happening in the IPHC, and it keeps them connected to the church.

Some few others are doing the same thing. Some have it sent by their bank on a monthly automatic check that is written. But we need at least 100 more people to do likewise.

It is through your faithful prayerful support and financial giving that Hugh's News remains a viable ministry. Your help is needed. And I am deeply grateful for everyone who gives to Hugh's News, Inc.

You may begin today planting seed into Hugh's News either by Credit Card or Check.
​
If you will Click Here on this hyperlink I have prepared for you, it will take you to the page that explains how to plant your seed by giving.

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The Reformation Changed Christianity Forever

10/30/2017

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The Protestant Reformation of the 16th century changed Christianity forever. Roused to action by the corruption and abuses they saw in the Roman Catholic church of the time, visionary pastors and leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin spearheaded a movement that transformed Christianity and eventually led to the emergence of the Protestant denominations that exist today.

The Reformers were guided by the conviction that the church of their day had drifted away from the essential, original teachings of Christianity, especially in regard to what it was teaching about salvation—how people can be forgiven of sin through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and receive eternal life with God. The Reformation sought to re-orient Christianity on the original message of Jesus and the early church.

The Five Solas are five Latin phrases (or slogans) that emerged during the Reformation to summarize the Reformers’ theological convictions about the essentials of Christianity.

The Five Solas are:
  1. Sola Scriptura (“Scripture alone”): The Bible alone is our highest authority.
  2. Sola Fide (“faith alone”): We are saved through faith alone in Jesus Christ.
  3. Sola Gratia (“grace alone”): We are saved by the grace of God alone.
  4. Solus Christus (“Christ alone”): Jesus Christ alone is our Lord, Savior, and King.
  5. Soli Deo Gloria (“to the glory of God alone”): We live for the glory of God alone.

Let’s have a brief look at each of these five points.

SOLA SCRIPTURA--The Scriptures are our ultimate and trustworthy authority for faith and practice. This doesn’t mean that the Bible is the only place where truth is found, but it does mean that everything else we learn about God and His world, and all other authorities, should be interpreted in light of Scripture. The Bible gives us everything we need for our theology.

Every word of the 66 books of the Bible is inspired by God’s Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit also helps us to understand and obey Scripture.

2 Peter 2:20, the Bible is about Jesus Christ and His role as God and Savior. Additionally, Romans 15:4 is 2 Timothy 2:16.

SOLA FIDE AND SOLA GRATIA--We are saved solely through faith in Jesus Christ because of God’s grace and Christ’s merit alone. We are not saved by our merits or declared righteous by our good works. God grants salvation not because of the good things we do, and despite our sin.

As humans, we inherited (from our ancestor Adam) a nature that is enslaved to sin. Because of our nature, we are naturally enemies of God and lovers of evil. We need to be made alive (regenerated) so that we can even have faith in Christ. God graciously chooses to give us new hearts so that we trust in Christ and are saved through faith alone.

God graciously preserves us and keeps us. When we are faithless toward Him, He is still faithful.

We can only stand before God by His grace as He mercifully attributes to us the righteousness of Jesus Christ and attributes to Him the consequences of our sins. Jesus’ life of perfect righteousness is counted as ours, and our records of sin and failure were counted to Jesus when He died on the cross.

Sola fide and sola gratia express the teaching of Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

SOLUS CHRISTUS--God has given the ultimate revelation of Himself to us by sending Jesus Christ, Colossians 1:15. Only through God’s gracious self-revelation in Jesus do we come to a saving and transforming knowledge of God.

1 Timothy 1:5. Because God is holy and all humans are sinful and sinners, 1 John 1:1 Hebrews 7:25 Romans 8:34. Neither religious rituals nor good works mediate between us and God. Acts 4:12 by which a person can be saved other than the Name of Jesus. Hebrews 7:23, and His sacrificial death alone can atone for sin.

SOLI DEO GLORIA--Glory belongs to God alone. God’s glory is the central motivation for salvation, not improving the lives of people—though that is a wonderful by product. God is not a means to an end—He is the means and the end.

The goal of all of life is to give glory to God alone: “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).  As The Westminster Catechism says, the chief purpose of human life is “to glorify God and enjoy him forever.”


Justin Holcomb is an Episcopal priest and teaches theology at Reformed Theological Seminary and Knox Theological Seminary. Justin wrote On the Grace of God and co-authored with his wife Lindsey Rid of My Disgrace and Save Me from Violence. He is also the editor of Christian Theologies of Scripture. You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, and at JustinHolcomb.com.
   
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The Emmanuel Singers, under the Direction of Trés Ward, will sing at Christian Life Worship Center in Athens, Sunday, November 5

10/30/2017

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Picture
For those attending our church from out of town, Christian Life Worship Center, formerly Tarkenton Memorial Church, is located one mile north of the Athens Perimeter or Loop 10, just off US Highway 129.

​The address of the church is 125 Kathwood Drive, Athens, GA 30607.
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Daylight Savings Sunday, November 5, 2017

10/30/2017

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PictureMove your clock on hour backwards Saturday evening
Move your clock or clocks one hour backwards on Sunday night

Daylight Savings Sunday, November 5, 2017

Remember to set your clocks back one hour on Saturday night. 

We will regain that hour we lost last spring. 

It's really easy to remember. In the spring we spring forward, and we move our clocks forward one honor. In the fall, we fall back and move our clocks one hour backwards.

That way  you will be on time for Sunday school and morning worship service.

​Invite someone to Sunday school and morning worship at your church this Sunday.


​

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"17 Inches" -- You will not regret reading this

10/30/2017

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An excellent article to read from beginning to end.
 
Twenty years ago, in Nashville, Tennessee, during the first week of January, 1996, more than 4,000 baseball coaches descended upon the Opryland Hotel for the 52nd annual ABCA's convention.
 
While I waited in line to register with the hotel staff, I heard other more veteran coaches rumbling about the line-up of speakers scheduled to present during the weekend.  One name, in particular, kept resurfacing, always with the same sentiment — “John Scolinos is here? Oh, man, worth every penny of my airfare.”
 
Who is John Scolinos, I wondered.  No matter; I was just happy to be there.
 
In 1996, Coach Scolinos was 78 years old and five years retired from a college coaching career that began in 1948.  He shuffled to the stage to an impressive standing ovation, wearing dark polyester pants, a light blue shirt, and a string around his neck from which home plate hung — a full-sized, stark-white home plate.
 
Seriously, I wondered, who is this guy?
 
After speaking for twenty-five minutes, not once mentioning the prop hanging around his neck, Coach Scolinos appeared to notice the snickering among some of the coaches.  Even those who knew Coach Scolinos had to wonder exactly where he was going with this, or if he had simply forgotten about home plate since he’d gotten on stage.
 
Then, finally ...“You’re probably all wondering why I’m wearing home plate around my neck,” he said, his voice growing irascible.
 
I laughed along with the others, acknowledging the possibility.
 
“I may be old, but I’m not crazy.  The reason I stand before you today is to share with you baseball people what I’ve learned in my life, what I’ve learned about home plate in my 78 years.”
 
Several hands went up when Scolinos asked how many Little League coaches were in the room.
 
“Do you know how wide home plate is in Little League?”
 
After a pause, someone offered, “Seventeen inches?,” more of a question than answer. 

“That’s right,” he said  “How about in Babe Ruth’s day?  Any Babe Ruth coaches in the house?” Another long pause.

 
“Seventeen inches?” a guess from another reluctant coach.
 
“That’s right,” said Scolinos.  “Now, how many high school coaches do we have in the room?”
 
Hundreds of hands shot up, as the pattern began to appear.  “How wide is home plate in high school baseball?”
 
“Seventeen inches,” they said, sounding more confident.
 
“You’re right!” Scolinos barked.  “And you college coaches, how wide is home plate in college?”
 
“Seventeen inches!” we said, in unison.
 
“Any Minor League coaches here?  How wide is home plate in pro ball?”............“Seventeen inches!”
 
“RIGHT!  And in the Major Leagues, how wide home plate is in the Major Leagues?
 
“Seventeen inches!”
 
“SEV-EN-TEEN INCHES!” he confirmed, his voice bellowing off the walls.  “And what do they do with a Big League pitcher who can’t throw the ball over seventeen inches?”  Pause.  “They send him to Pocatello!” he hollered, drawing raucous laughter.  “What they don’t do is this: they don’t say, ‘Ah, that’s okay, Jimmy.  If you can’t hit a seventeen-inch target?  We’ll make it eighteen inches or nineteen inches.  We’ll make it twenty inches so you have a better chance of hitting it.  If you can’t hit that, let us know so we can make it wider still, say twenty-five inches.'”
 
Pause.  “Coaches... what do we do when your best player shows up late to practice? or when our team rules forbid facial hair and a guy shows up unshaven?  What if he gets caught drinking?  Do we hold him accountable?  Or do we change the rules to fit him?  Do we widen home plate?"
 
The chuckles gradually faded as four thousand coaches grew quiet, the fog lifting as the old coach’s message began to unfold.
 
He turned the plate toward himself and, using a Sharpie, began to draw something.
 
When he turned it toward the crowd, point up, a house was revealed, complete with a freshly drawn door and two windows.
 
“This is the problem in our homes today.  With our marriages, with the way we parent our kids.  With our discipline.
 
We don’t teach accountability to our kids, and there is no consequence for failing to meet standards.  We just widen the plate!”
 
Pause.
 
Then, to the point at the top of the house he added a small American flag.
 
“This is the problem in our schools today.  The quality of our education is going downhill fast and teachers have been stripped of the tools they need to be successful, and to educate and discipline our young people.  We are allowing others to widen home plate!  Where is that getting us?”
 
Silence.
 
He replaced the flag with a Cross.  “And this is the problem in the Church, where powerful people in positions of authority have taken advantage of young children, only to have such an atrocity swept under the rug for years.  Our church leaders are widening home plate for themselves!  And we allow it.”
 
“And the same is true with our government.  Our so called representatives make rules for us that don’t apply to themselves. They take bribes from lobbyists and foreign countries.  They no longer serve us.  And we allow them to widen home plate! We see our country falling into a dark abyss while we just watch.”
 
I was amazed.  At a baseball convention where I expected to learn something about curve balls and bunting and how to run better practices, I had learned something far more valuable.
 
From an old man with home plate strung around his neck, I had learned something about life, about myself, about my own weaknesses and about my responsibilities as a leader.  I had to hold myself and others accountable to that which I knew to be right, lest our families, our faith, and our society continue down an undesirable path.
 
“If I am lucky,” Coach Scolinos concluded, “you will remember one thing from this old coach today.  It is this: "If we fail to hold ourselves to a higher standard, a standard of what we know to be right; if we fail to hold our spouses and our children to the same standards, if we are unwilling or unable to provide a consequence when they do not meet the standard; and if our schools & churches & our government fail to hold themselves accountable to those they serve, there is but one thing to look forward to ...”
 
With that, he held home plate in front of his chest, turned it around, and revealed its dark black backside, “...We have dark days ahead!”
 
Note: Coach Scolinos died in 2009 at the age of 91, but not before touching the lives of hundreds of players and coaches, including mine.
 
Meeting him at my first ABCA convention kept me returning year after year, looking for similar wisdom and inspiration from other coaches.
 
He is the best clinic speaker the ABCA has ever known because he was so much more than a baseball coach.
 
His message was clear: “Coaches, keep your players—no matter how good they are—your own children, your churches, your government, and most of all, keep yourself at seventeen inches."
 
And this my friends is what our country has become and what is wrong with it today, and now go out there and fix it!
 
"Don't widen the plate."
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John and Gina Shealy have just posted a comment on your blog post, "17 Inches" -- You will not regret reading this

10/30/2017

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So true! Thank you for the great reminder!

John Shealy is the Head Coach of the Clay Target Shooting Program at Emmanuel College. John and Gina, his wife, are an added blessing to Emmanuel College. It means so much to receive this affirmative response to this article, "17 Inches."

John is the youngest son of Kenneth and Roberta Robinson Shealy of Winterville, GA. Roberta is deceased. She was an exceptional Christian mother/grandmother, pianist, Bible teacher, and my friend. I was at Athens Regional Hospital in Athens, GA, when she died. Our loss is heaven's gain.

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