January 30th, 2012

Spring Meadows Student Ministry

This is a 6-month (Aug 2011-Jan2012) summary of our work with students at Spring Meadows. You'll find student-written prayers, event recaps, teaching content, baptism stories, and lots of pictures for a full report. We hope you find this as a useful resource communicating some of the ways we are trying to effectively accomplish this mission... MISSION:The Student Ministry of the Spring Meadows Church of Christ is committed to creating environments to teach the gospel, baptize, and train disciples of Jesus Christ. Again, here are some of our specific objectives in accomplishing that mission... Create Environments. Our gatherings are intentional times and places where teenagers come to find the excitement of the Christian life. We want every young person to feel positive, welcome and excited about connecting with God and others. Teach the Gospel. Our teaching points all glory to Jesus Christ, and the authority of His Word. We see the gospel as the center of all we say and do. Our gratitude for the gospel drives us, compels us and empowers our work. When the gospel is put at the heart of all our relationships, marriages, ministries, and daily pursuits, we see Gods beautiful plan for unity and peace among His people. Baptize. In the New Testament, baptisms always follow gospel preaching. We desire to see the same result as we share the good news with our students and their friends. Students will know baptism as our acceptance of God's offer of life in thedeath, burial and resurrection of Jesus. Train Disciples. We want students to know what a true disciple of Christ looks like. What they do. What they dont do. Here the spiritual disciplines of repentance, prayer, Bible study, and worship are emphasized. Capitalize on Family. We believe in Gods design for spiritual development of children. Therefore, we resource and equip families to be the spiritual leaders of the children that God has called them to be. Carry Out Mission. The ultimate mission of the church and the goal of our life is to reflect the light of Gods glory in this world. We pray all our works glow with the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Cor 4:6)

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Connor Pratt Prayer for Spring Meadows Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Middle School student, Connor Pratt joins hands in The Prayer Project for the sake of youth and families at Spring Meadows Dear God, Thank you Lord for loving & blessing us. Thank you for all the things you have done for us. Each of us has a special need; & you help us to see that need and then help us to make good decisions. Most of all we need you, your word, your love & strength to go through all the trials that we face. Thank you for giving us a certain peace of mind that no terrorists will come through our door and try to kill us for our religion. We ask that you help those in need. Le t everybody stand for you & praise you name through troubling times. Let our elders make the best decisions for the congregation. Please let us jump on things that need to be done like locking up, cleaning up, and putting chairs up or down to help this congregation. Help us to help each other either by email or face to face. Let us have too many volunteers rather than too few. Thank you for this congregation & let us work to bring more people to you. In Jesus Name, Amen Thank Connor for his prayer by leaving a comment or writing him atpratt4@charter.net. Join us through the month of August as we immerse the Spring Meadows youth and families in prayer, asking for Gods continued blessing. Our ultimate desire is that each prayer would concentrate our focus, motivating and mobilizing families for the glory of God. Submit your prayer to scott@smcoc.net and join hands with us!

January 30th, 2012

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Courtney Gaines Prayer for Spring Meadows Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Dalton Bennett Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

High School student, Courtney Gaines joins hands in The Prayer Project for the sake of youth and families at Spring Meadows Dear Father, Thank you for the many blessings of each day. Thank you for the opportunities that are given to us to serve, to learn, to embody your spirit. Thank you for the community we live in. Thank you for its prosperity and the perfect opportunity to reach out to others, and to be an example. Thank you Lord for the family at Spring Meadows. Thank you for each soul that is represented. I pray that you continue to bless the work here, and bless the people. Thank you for our youth group, and what it has become. Please be with us during this transition period. Let us lean on your for trust and strength, and lean on each other as well. I pray that this new ministry under Scott brings us even closer together as true brothers and sisters in Christ. I pray that it opens doors for all of us to each use our specific talents you have blessed us with to reach out. And I pray that we continue to grow. I pray we become an active force in this area by being examples of young people in love with you. Guard us as we return to school. Help us maintain the spiritual high from summer. Keep us on fire for you. Help us be a light to those around us and keep us strong during temptation. Our youth alone has the power to impact so many people. I pray we are positive, Christ-like influences. I pray people see us as steady, strong young people with a purpose. I pray each day we are with Christ, for Christ and like Christ. In your Sons precious name, Amen Thank Courtney for her prayer by leaving a comment or writing her at courtneyg@charter.net. Join us through the month of August as we immerse the Spring Meadows youth and families in prayer, asking for Gods continued blessing. Our ultimate desire is that each prayer would concentrate our focus, motivating and mobilizing families for the glory of God. Submit your prayer to scott@smcoc.net and join hands with us!

Dalton Bennett was baptized Sunday morning, August 14, 2011 by his dad. It was an unforgettable morning as Dalton confessed and obeyed Jesus Christ as Lord. His baptism was followed by a special time of affirmation, song and prayer. We love the Bennett family and are so happy for Daltons new life in Christ!

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

7 Reasons to Get Your Friends to GLOW Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Next week, we launch our weekly gathering for middle school and high school students. Here are some reasons this is a cantmiss-event! The Best Beginning Ever. Small starts are the best. Jesus started with a small group of 12 men. Those 12 men turned the world upside down. God starts His best work with small beginnings. The Best Environment Ever. Were working hard to make sure you feel welcome. And that your friends do too. We want GLOW to be the highlight of your week. The Best Fun Ever. A quick game/activity to get our blood pumping. Also a great way to get to know all the new peeps. The Best Message Ever. Just like the apostle Paul, were praying for open doors to declare the message and mystery of Jesus Christ. Were teaching Christ from the book of Colossians. Verse-by-verse. 4 of the best chapters youll ever read.

January 30th, 2012

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The Best Mission Ever.Were on mission to teach the gospel and train disciples of Jesus Christ. Its what Christ commanded and its what were about. Were one week away! Be praying up and inviting your friends! Pack your car and get them in the doors at 6:30pm next Tuesday. Lets blow up our first GLOW! Its too good not to share!

them and dont let them forget that You are in their life. And we are thankful for our friends. And please help Mr. Dale and his dad because he doesnt get to spend Fathers Day with him and Mr. Scott to have a fun time here and not feel like he needs to leave and go back to his old church and to help everyone that grows up to have families that have Christian husbands and wives. In Jesus Name. Amen. Thank Caroline for her prayer by leaving a comment or writing her at anddarden@yahoo.com. Join us through the month of August as we immerse the Spring Meadows youth and families in prayer, asking for Gods continued blessing. Our ultimate desire is that each prayer would concentrate our focus, motivating and mobilizing families for the glory of God. Submit your prayer to scott@smcoc.net and join hands with us!

2985 Duplex Road Spring Hill, TN 37174 Call or Text Scott at (731) 415-7550 for a ride!

Hope Headden Prayer for Spring Meadows Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Caroline Darden Prayer for Spring Meadows Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

High School Student, Hope Headden joins hands in The Prayer Project for the sake of youth and families at Spring Meadows Dear Lord, Thank You for all the many blessings You have given us. Today I want to especially thank You for our church, our leaders, our youth group, and our families. Please watch over our church and guide our elders, deacons, and teachers. Please help our youth group to bond. Help us to be good examples to others and bring others to You. Please help our families to be strong and remain faithful in Your word. Please forgive us when we fail You and sin. In Jesus name, Amen. Thank Hope for her prayer by leaving a comment or writing her at hopeheadden@yahoo.com Join us through the month of August as we immerse the Spring Meadows youth and families in prayer, asking for Gods continued blessing. Our ultimate desire is that each prayer would concentrate our focus, motivating and mobilizing families for the glory of God. Submit your prayer to scott@smcoc.net and join hands with us!

Elementary School student, Caroline Darden joins hands in The Prayer Project for the sake of youth and families at Spring Meadows

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the classes at church and please help us be able to learn in a fun way and to earn prizes as we do that. And please help all of the kids as they learn so they can remember all of these things from class. And please help the children in the youth group that have lost loved ones. And please help everyone to be a Christian when they grow up and please watch over

Key Themes in Colossians Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Colossians is Pauls master declaration of Christ as Lord over all of creation, including the invisible realm. Jesus has secured
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January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

redemption for his people, enabling them to participate with him in his death, resurrection, and fullness. Heres the breakdown of key themes in Colossians 1. Jesus Christ is preeminent over all creation, Lord over all human rulers and cosmic powers. Col 1:1520; 2:9 10; 3:1 2. God has worked through Christ to secure redemption and reconciliation for all who put their faith in him. Col 1:1314, 2022 3. Believers are in Christ and thus participate in a relationship of unity with Christ in his death on the cross, his resurrection from the dead, his new life, and his fullness. Col 2:914; 3:14 4. Christ has defeated the powers of darkness on the cross, and Christians share in his power and authority over that realm. Col 2:10, 15; see also Col 2:8, 20 5. Jesus is the fulfillment of Jewish expectation, and Christians now share in the heritage of the old covenant people of God through their union with him. Col 1:12, 21 22, 27 6. Believers are called to grow in maturity in Christ by getting rid of sinful practices and cultivating Christian virtues. Col 1:1012, 28; 3:14:6

Gods mission is that those who have received the seed are to plant the seed. The MOST SIGNIFICANT DAY in the history of Colosse was the day Epaphras came to town and planted the seed of the gospel. Lives were changed. Destinies were altered. When the gospel was planted. And that gospel seed started producing fruit. In fact, the good news about Jesus was making fruit all over the world. The fruit of FAITH in Christ The fruit of LOVE for others The fruit of HOPE in heaven This mission of planting the gospel is the grand movement of God. Christ is above this mission. Christ initiated the mission and He will see it to completion. Jesus desire is for you to carry out the mission. Plant seed. Bear fruit. This pleases God. (Col 1:10)

2. Christ Above Missions (Col 1:3-8) Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Laney Dark Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

[3] We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, [5] because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, [6] which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasingas it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, [7] just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf [8] and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

Monday Night, September 12, Laney Dark was baptized into Christ. Shes been taught well by her father and mother, Ken and Regina Dark. Its such a powerful sight to see parents lead, love, teach and baptize their children into Christ. What an example of legacy! Biblical faith being passed from one generation to the next.

January 30th, 2012

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2011 Fall Break Beach Retreat Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Man has a barrier constructed by our own sin that cuts us off from God. This wall of shame disconnects and blocks us off from God. It is guarded by Satan, his demons and their evil. It is death strip (guard towers, large concrete walls, fakir beds). Anyone that tries to cross fails and dies. We stand apart from God, alienated. We stand against God, hostile in our thinking of Him. We stand actively disobeying God, doing evil deeds.

Jesus, King and Creator of heavens and earth, laid down his dead body to tear down a wall between heaven and earth.
There is one sign sinners can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically their freedom and peace. If you seek peace, if you seek prosperity, if you seek freedom and liberty, come here to Christ. Jesus Christ has opened the gate. Jesus Christ has torn down the wall. Christs work was the power of the cross. Our work is to be convicted of and compelled by that cross.

Tear Down This Wall Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

The Berlin Wall was a barrier constructed by East Germany starting on 13 August 1961, that completely cut off West Berlin from the East. The barrier included guard towers placed along large concrete walls, (later known as the death strip) that contained anti-vehicle trenches, fakir beds (a.k.a. bed of nails) and other defenses.

Jesus overpowered Satan and his death strip. Jesus came and died by the fakir bed nails of Satan. He then overpowered death to rising back to life, conquering darkness, death and hell. He gave us passage way through death by him. He is the door, the gate, the way. Hear the hope of heaven: Christs death is the door that creates way for sinners to become holy blameless and perfect. And you, who once were alienated and hostile in minddoing evil deeds, [22] he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, [23] if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard (Colossians 1:21-23)

1 Comment
Daniel Dalp October 13, 2011 at 5:34 am Great post Scott! Isnt it sad that so many times we build a wall around ourselves that is between us and the lost, but at the same time we build a wall between ourselves and God? I appreciate your thoughts! In a speech at the Brandenburg Gate on 12 June 1987, Ronald Reagan challenged Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down the wall as a symbol of increasing freedom: There is one sign the Soviets can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically the cause of freedom and peace. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall! In the same spirit
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January 30th, 2012

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Kailey Schuyler Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

and a great softball player. She was invited by her friend Corrie (right) to our weekly GLOW event where we met Mikaylee and shared Jesus with her. After a few weeks, she also attended a the student ministry fall retreat. Mikaylee began to wrestle with questions about faith, sin and salvation. With some help from Corrie, and Corries mother, Naomi, they helped her find the answers for which she had been looking. The seed of the gospel had been planted in Mikaylees heart and had blossomed into love and obedience towards God.

Kailey Schuyler, daughter of Tommy and Emily, was baptized after Bible study on Wednesday night, October 5th. Kailey is a middle school student and runs cross-country at Columbia Academy. Make sure to say a word of welcome and encouragement to our new sister in Christ!

Friends Find Friends Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

For the past two months, the Spring Meadows Church of Christ has hosted a weekly gathering where teenagers can invite their friends. They come together for a couple hours that include an activity, snack/meal and a time of worship. Meet the new Mikaylee. Its an exciting time of friendship, laughs and worship. We look forward to it every week. Meet Mikaylee.

Tuesday night, November 1st (11/1/11), Mikaylee confessed Christ above all saying I want to be a Christian and live with God forever. I know Jesus died for me and I want to have my sins washed away. She was immersed in water as the Bible book of Colossians describes having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God (2:12)

Mikaylee (left) is a high school student that moved from California a few years ago. Shes an awesome gal, good student

The old Mikaylee was put off and put away. Her former sins and failures are wiped away and cleansed by the blood of Christ. She is forgiven. She is free. She is valuable, bought at a precious price. She is now a daughter of God, the bride of Christ, and the home of the Holy Spirit.
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Were praying and praising God with thanks for Corrie and Mikaylee. This is the brightest example of what happens when friends find friends. This is the beautiful blossomed flower and fruit of a small seed called the gospel.

3 Comments
Chase Turner November 2, 2011 at 6:06 pm That is awesome! Thanks for sharing the wonderful news! Praise God for He is great! Robbie Mackenzie November 2, 2011 at 6:10 pm Great stuff Scott. So glad God-through-you is doing an amazing work there. Keep it up. Jami November 3, 2011 at 2:46 am Awesome!

Brother & Sister Reborn Together Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Kaitlin Wood was born 16 years ago in the month of December. Her brother, Carson Wood was born almost 12 years ago in January. By Gods goodness, they were born brother and sister by family name and heritage. Their parents John and Caryn were blessed to watch them come into this life as very precious gifts of Gods grace.

After an extended time of study and prayer, Kaitlin and Carson obeyed the gospel and were united to God and to His family. They both expressed their faith in Jesus Christ as Gods Son, repented of their sins, and were washed in the waters of baptism. Carson confessed Christ saying I want to believe in and live with God forever. I know Jesus died on a cross and took the wrath of God for me. Can all the joys of parenthood match the pride and happiness of a day like this? Seeing your son and daughter become the very children of God leaves a powerful sight to behold. A powerful Savior to worship. A powerful legacy to pass on.

Brothers and sisters grow up doing a lot of things together. They play together. They learn together. They grow together. They spend time together and develop a strong affection and love over the years together. But November 3, 2011 may be the best of Kaitlin and Carsons days together. Today, they died together. Today, they were buried together. Today, they were raised and reborn together. Today, they were bonded by a much deeper bloodline and heritage. Today, they became brother and sister in Christ. Today, they were recreated by the power of water and the Spirit (John 3:5) to enter the kingdom of God.

Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.(Acts 13:26 ESV)

January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

Anderson Leverette Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Anderson Leverette, son of Danny and Tammy Leverette, was baptized into Christ on Sunday, November 20, 2011. He repented of sin, confessed his Savior and was saved in the waters of baptism (1 Peter 3:21). We praise God for the good influences of church and family in Andersons decision to follow Jesus.

At Spring Meadows, we want to pause to give thanks for the growth of Gods Word in peoples hearts. This fall 2011, weve been blessed to witness Gods power first hand. Students are growing in their knowledge of salvation and treasure they have in Jesus Christ. We rejoice with heaven as young people dedicate their hearts, obey the gospel and continue to commit their lives to Christ (Luke 15:10). Add these young people to your thanksgiving prayer list. Encourage them. Read their stories here. August 3 Hannah Weller August 14 Dalton Bennett August 25 Zach Bowman September 14 Laney Dark October 5 Kailey Schuyler November 1 Mikaylee Chapman November 3 Kaitlin Wood November 3 Carson Wood November 20 Anderson Leverette November 27 Ellie Colson As these young people obey the gospel and are baptized into Christ, we also are providing opportunities for them to be trained as disciples of Jesus Christ. On December 10-11, were hosting an event called EQUIP. Its a Friday night Saturday event where we train young people to follow Jesus. To be young men and women who love, seek and serve God. Heres a video recapping some of the work this fall. As the Spirit fills our hearts, well continue to preach Jesus, praising, worshiping, and giving thanks and glory to God.

Harvest of Ministry Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

As November comes to an end, farmers across our land are enjoying harvest. It is a season of reaping, collecting and gathering. Some years produce better crop than others. But regardless, farmers humbly and gratefully thank God for the blessing of growth and produce. Gods Word describes ministry as a type of farming (Galatians 6:9). Sowing and reaping. Planting and watering. Growing and gathering. After a fall season of teaching, preaching, encouraging and training, we ought to step back and praise God for the harvest of ministry. This is a time to recognize Jesus as the Lord of the harvest (Luke 10:2). And to thank Him for the health and growth of His church. The seed of the gospel has been planted by parents, preachers, teachers, friends, family and neighbors. We do not praise the planter or the preacher but the power of Gods Word and its effects on the heart of man (1 Corinthians 1:12).

January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

Ellie Colson Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Sunday morning Ellie Colson, the daughter of James and Jennie was baptized. Ellie is 12, her older sister is Olivia. Ellie is a fun loving, compassionate, lovable young lady who is fun to be around.

Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.(Exodus 4:12 ESV)

Catie Roa Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

The power and influence of a Bible School teacher is highly underestimated. Anyone who has ever questioned the purpose and effectiveness of Sunday Bible school needs to meet Dave Zientak. For the past couple of years, Dave has taken the privilege to teach Spring Meadows 5th & 6th graders passionately. As he shares biblical truth on a consistent weekly basis, the Spirit ministers to the hearts and minds of his young students. One of Daves students is Catie Roa, a bright smiling and shining young lady. And on Sunday morning, December 11, 2011, Catie was baptized by her Sunday morning Bible School teacher, Dave.

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? (Romans 6:3 ESV)

January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

EQUIP 2011 Recap Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Last weekend (December 9-10, 2011) the student ministry hosted the first of our discipleship events called EQUIP. This was a program started years ago by Dale Jenkins and Doug Burleson to train young boys how to minister and preach. This year, we invited guys and girls to the EQUIP event in training to do great things for God. 32 of Spring Meadows young people showed up to be part of the weekend.

having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. (Colossians 2:12 ESV)

We covered 5 major areas young people can make a difference in the Lords kingdom Worship (personal & public, preparation & service to church worship services) Fellowship (topics like hospitality, preparing meals, deepening community & friendship) Evangelism (friendship, preaching, inviting, sharing the gospel) Missions (mission experiences & how they can prepare to go) Discipleship (personal disciplines like prayer, bible reading, journaling, spiritual conversations, etc) The fun of EQUIP is the spontaneous adventure of the unknown. Students have no idea of the next location or nature of each session. They showed up at the building and were taken captive for the rest of the event. Girls and guys seperated for split sessions. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, (1 Peter 3:21 ESV) A powerful testimony to the presence of a good role model and inspiration of an excellent Bible teacher. Praise God for men, leaders, servants and teachers like Dave! The girls were led by Rebecca Throneberry, teacher at Columbia Academy & member at the Highland church in Columbia, and Melissa Crumley (SM adult volunteer). Kristyn Boyd (SM adult volunteer) also came to talk about growing in discipleship by praying, Bible reading & Christian friendships. Girls enjoyed stops along the way at McDougals chicken, Sonic (ice cream) & Red Lark Coffee Shop (for a session on evangelism).

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They guys were led by Dale Jenkins (preaching minister), Scott Bond (youth minister) and Avery Casey (ministry volunteer). Scott Tillman (youth minister at Granny White church), Jerry Elder (youth minister at West 7th church), and Caleb Boyd (SM adult volunteer) were invited to encourage and instructing the boys in areas of Worship, Fellowship and Discipleship. Stops at Ghengis Grill and Steak-n-Shake kept the guys fed and going strong. The guys also spent a session on Skype with SMsupported missionary, Matt Cook, in Cusco, Peru.

EQUIP 2011 was a memorable weekend and a jam-packed with intentional focus on growing a disciples of Jesus Christ. And that is what we are all about. The Student Ministry of the Spring Meadows Church of Christ is committed to creating environments to teach the gospel and train disciples of Jesus Christ. Through that process, we wish to capture the hearts and minds of young people with the power and relevance of the gospel.

2 Comments
Robbie Mackenzie December 15, 2011 at 7:24 pm Thanks for this brother. You are doing a great work. Melissa crumley December 15, 2011 at 9:15 pm Great times with Scott Bond Jr. And Dale Jenkins!!!!!

Connor Lawrence Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared. (Luke 1:17 ESV) John the Baptist was a man prepared by God to go ahead and prepare the way for Jesus. He directed young men back to the ways of their fathers and grandfathers. He was to make the people ready and get everything set for others to meet and follow Christ. I love to hear about dads who follow in the footsteps of John the Baptist. Men who are courageous in spirit and power to prepare their childrens hearts for Jesus to make an entrance. Last night, we were again reminded about the impact and legacy fathers can lovingly impress on their children. On, Wednesday night, December 14, 2011, Gregg Lawrence baptized his own son into Christ. Making a promise to commit every minute of the rest of his life to the Lord, Connor confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior.

The students stayed the night in the SM church building, enjoyed midnight snacks, activities, games and fun. The men of EQUIP helped set up chairs for our Sunday morning worship and then rose early the next morning to cook and serve breakfast to the ladies.

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2012 Student Ministry At A Glance Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

After each baptism at Spring Meadows, we like to embrace, welcome & encourage new Christians in some basics. Here are a few of the practical bits Dale offered Connor in beginning his new life. Talk to God daily. (prayer) Let God talk to you. (Bible study) Anyone can be a Bible scholar by studying the Bible 15 minutes a day. Find something to do for God, and do it. (serve) Attend worship. Be with Gods people. Find an older Christian leader you can imitate. Follow their example. When you make a mistake, dont quit. When you do, ask for forgiveness, repent and move on. Were thankful for Greggs leadership in his faith and family. He encouraged Connor to honor and emulate his grandfathers effort to remember his Creator in the days of his youth. We praise God for Connors commitment and pray for his new walk as a disciple washed in the blood of blessings of Jesus Christ

Biblical Manhood/Womanhood Series Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

For the next three months, the Church at Spring Meadows is offering a series of split classes on biblical manhood and the virtuous Christian woman.

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High School students are invited along with their parent to attend the Sunday morning session together. Thats right. Guys will go to class with Dad. Girls go to class with Mom. The class will cover biblical principles regarding identity, role, sex and character of the godly Christian man and virtuous Christian woman. This past Sunday, January 1st, 2012, we kicked off the series speaking to combined young men and women about the importance of the study. Gregg Lawrence spoke about the authority/responsibility required of the Christian parent to teach and the biblical mandate for Christian young people to respect/obey their parents.

why we teach this way. Why not teach more relevant subject matters? Why not preach on the topics teens are dealing with (sex, drugs, dating, etc)? The truth is that Ive been down that road. Ive taught hot topics, relevant issues, and teen talk classes. And those classes have been fun, informative and popular. You can see portions of our Hot Topics content here. But here is why Ive personally concluded preaching through Joshua (or any book in Scripture) is the best/most effective way for me to teach. 1. Heres the thing. In 4 months, well graduate a class of seniors 18-year-olds who will be unleashed into the real world. And when they get out on their own, they probably wont care to remember their youth ministers stance on any particular subject or relevant issue. What they will remember will be the Savior & Source for redemption of truth in all lifes matters. 2. Gods Word was written to give us unchanging, unfading, unending, undying truth. Young people need to know the Source of lasting truth for the latest trend, Scripture. Joshua prized, preached and treasured the Book of the Law in all He did. 3. Young people also need to know their Savior that knowing Christ & His divine power is everything. That knowledge grants us all things pertaining to life & godliness. 2 Peter 1:3

As we equip young people for spiritual growth, one of our greatest needs is to help them grasp their identity as children of God and disciples of Christ. For the next 12 weeks, well focus on the foundational relationship for all other interaction in culture, life and church. The relationship between the father, mother and their children. For the next 12 weeks, classrooms will be packed with moms and dads who realize their sons and daughters are actually their brothers and sisters in Christ! What a vision!

4. In particular, the book of Joshua points us forward to Jesus. Joshua paints the perfect picture of Christ a strong leader/warrior/savior, an obedient, humble, man of prayer, who shows grace, punishes sin, points people to Gods Word, & ultimately pilots Gods chosen ones to victory and rest in the Promise Land. 5. This book drives boys to aspire to be like men Joshua men who pick up their pants, pull out their swords, push forward by the promise & protection of God. 6. This book is a young ladys treasure chest of traits they should seek in their future husbands responsible young men who they can trust to get off the couch, read their Bible, and fight for their familys entrance to the Promised Land. 7. In a young world & culture of weak role models and phobia-filled schools, Joshua teaches the fundamental principle of strength and courage found in the presence of God & His people. 8. Young people braving the damage of divorce, abuse, dishonesty, & broken promises, need to know the God of Joshua, who protects and keeps his promises. He keeps his covenant like a divine spit-shake. Instead of spitting & shaking hands, God sealed the contract envelope of his promises/blessings with the blood that flowed from the hands of His Son. 9. The sins of sex, prostitution and homosexuality are rampant in culture today. The guilt on the shoulders of churched and un-churched young people need to hear of the saving grace extended to the harlot Rahab. They also
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VISION Video Style #1 Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

The first episode of a weekly video update at Spring Meadows. We plan for it to contain fresh news on upcoming events and happenings. This week includes a Justin Bieber watch, diapers and Evangelism University.

10 Reasons Why Were Preaching Joshua to Young People Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

We just finished our study through Colossians. And over the next 16 weeks, were preaching through the book of Joshua to our teenagers. Some have already asked the question about

January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

need to hear of the judgment/punishment brought on the sinning, unrepentant, unbelieving Canaanites. 10. Joshua is the needle that threads the supremacy and steadfastness of God through our heritage as His people. Based on our past history, were compelled as the newest generation to respond, obey and worship His continuing faithfulness. Tonight we start Chapter 1 for our students at Spring Meadows called VICTORIOUS: The Epic Conquest of Gods People in Joshua. From this grand account of Joshua, we plan to show he prepared the way for the glory and power and rest found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Friday night session of EU was kicked off by keynote speaker Wesley Hazel (from the Savannah church). Saturday and Sunday keynotes were grand slam messages hit by Keith Parker (tons of students responded, a handful were baptized as new Christians). This year each student was also handed a Bible. They were challenged to write a personal note to a friend inside the front cover and then give the Bible as a gift. It was a thoughtprovoking way for students to reach their friends, classmates, teammates, (etc). Its simple and profound and awesome to think about all the Bibles that will be given away today and through the rest of this week. The Sunday morning collection also went to purchase Bibles for a young mens preaching camp in Central America. 1,777 students were gathered at the Saturday night session. Combined with the Savannah church, 1,885 were in attendance for the Sunday morning worship.

Evangelism University 2012 Recap Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

This weekend was amazing to say the least. Every January, high school students pack the gym of Hardin County High School to be schooled in sharing their faith. They are challenged in creative outside-the-box ways to genuinely, authentically, humbly talk to others about Jesus Christ. Students get plugged into several different settings (keynote messages, elective classes, and youth group sessions) to focus on the mission and message of the gospel. The 2012 theme was ACTION from 2 Cor 5 letting the love and life of Christ compel and control our view and value of others - So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. (v.16)

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January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

The EU board is made up of some great guys who always get the job done hosting this phenomenal weekend - Philip Jenkins, Tim Frizzell, Nick Jones (A/V guru), Josh Schwartz, Chuck Morris, Dustin Perkins and 2 elders at the Savannah church. You can get the excellent teaching content/sermon notes from all the keynote sessions at Robbie Mackenzies blog. *** Evangelism University is a top-notch event that purposefully and intentionally develops young disciples. It is a launching pad that sets young people into motion Jesus commissioned (Mark 16:15). This weekend echoes the heartbeat of our student ministry: creating environments to teach the gospel, train disciples and setting them on mission to reflect the light of Gods glory in this world. Youth ministers are privileged to push their students to events like this to attend, serve and participate in this grand work of God.

commitment. Death comes when we rebel & disobey Christs commands. 8. The Israelites longed for rest/shalom/peace/well-being from the warfare and work of soldiers and slaves. Today we find our true rest/Sabbath/shalom as a sons, daughters & servants of Jesus Christ.

Hailie Stotler Baptism Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

1 Comment
Philip January 17, 2012 at 3:55 pm Thanks so much, Scott! I hope you enjoyed being a part of the weekend! I know we will put you to work next year, too, Lord willing!

So What? Joshua Part 1 Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

1. Young men should aspire to be like Joshua men who pick up their pants, pull out their swords, push forward by the promise & protection of God. 2. Young ladies should date & marry men like Joshua. Responsible young men who they can trust to get off the couch, read their Bible, and fight for their familys entrance to the promised land. 3. The Lord promised victory & possession of every place Joshuas feet touched. As Christians, we also have to step out in faith knowing the promise of victory & possession already taken by Christ. 4. Laziness can keep young people from taking their schools, ball fields, and workplaces for Christ. We must get up & go. The Lord gives. But we must go. 5. Be strong and courageous. Young Christians need strength and courage to accept His will, obey His Word, & go fight in war. 6. Joshua called, charged, commanded & commissioned his officers to take the land by the promise of God. Jesus called, charged, commanded, & commissioned us as His disciples to take the land by the power of the gospel. Matt 28:18-20, Acts1:8 7. The peoples pledge to Joshua was a promise of loyalty and commitment. Rebellion & disobedience to him meant death. A young persons confession/ pledge to Jesus is the same a promise of loyalty &
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January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

Were praying for a fruitful season of preaching Jesus to young people. From the OT book of Joshua, we plan to show Christ as Divine Warrior, Leader, Savior and Judge of all men.

Intro to Joshua E-Zine Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Tonight we start a new series for our students at Spring Meadows called VICTORIOUS: The Epic Conquest of Gods People in Joshua. Weve put together an E-Zine (online magazine) for them to study as an introduction to the book. Tonight, well release it and charge them to dive into personal study/preparation for this series. You can download it here:
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January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

But what fires me up is the courage these young men display at such an early age. They experience the red-face-crackingvoice-knocking-knee feeling for a short time and then its over. They come down proud of what they did. Their parents, grandparents, ministers, and church family pat them on the back congratulating them on a job well done. They learn that getting up in front isnt so bad after all. They get an early grasp on their role/identity as disciples of Jesus Christ and are trained in the mission to preach the good news to all creation (Mark 16:15). It fires up the church to see future leaders stretch their abilities and talents for the glory of God and good of His kingdom. I strongly believe the younger we start pulling boys up into the pulpit, the better off the church will be. My dad, mom, preacher, and mentors pushed me up into a pulpit as a young boy. They encouraged me and told me I could do it. And that made all the difference. Of all the good things that have happened this year, this hour might have been the churchs brightest moment. This is valuable work and worship that will last for all eternity.

Again, here is the downloadable PDF file (iPad/Kindle Fire): Intro to Joshua E-Zine

5th Sunday Nights Gospel Glow

By gospelglow on January 30th, 2012

Here are some excerpts of high school boys who preached the gospel this past Sunday night (1/29/12) Here is another one of my favorite pictures and a video of a youth led worship at the church in Martin, Tennessee.

Something about 5th Sunday nights fire me up. Every quarter of the calendar year has a month with 5 Sundays. As long as Ive been in youth ministry, weve used 5th Sunday nights to encourage young boys to lead our PM worship service. They take over the service leading the church in prayer, singing, Bible-reading, serving communion, and preaching the gospel.

These nights are small glimpses of our boys becoming young men. Many of them take their first steps up into a pulpit just weeks or months after becoming a Christian. Some (8,9,10 yrolds) have to had to use a stepping stool just to be seen over the big wooden pulpit. And it never fails their voice cracks, they lose their place, or they forget one of the main points of the lesson.
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January 30th, 2012

Published by: scott_bondjr

By Gods grace, well continue making the most of these 5th Sunday nights and dedicating them growing young men as leaders in the Lords church.

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