As we step into March, there are several things on my heart that I want to share with you as your pastor.

Revival is one of those words that can easily be misunderstood. For some, it brings to mind a series of services on the calendar. For others, it carries memories of powerful moments from the past. But at its heart, revival is not about a schedule or even a special speaker. The heart of revival is bringing life back to the church.

Revival is about God stirring His people again. It is about rekindled affection for Christ, renewed obedience to His Word, and a restored burden for the lost. When the church is revived—when we are walking closely with Jesus—then we are positioned to do the work He has called us to do in our community and among the nations.

I am grateful that the Lord has provided Dr. Carl Bradford to lead us this year. Dr. Bradford serves as the Dean of Texas Baptist College at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and I believe he will challenge and encourage us in faithful discipleship.

Our focus during this revival will be simple and direct: growing in our walk with Jesus Christ. We don’t need hype. We need holiness. We don’t need excitement for a few days. We need endurance in discipleship.

Revival will begin Sunday morning, March 15, and we will meet Sunday through Wednesday evening at 6:00 pm. I want to encourage you to prioritize these days. Pray now that the Lord would prepare your heart. Ask Him to search you, refine you, and draw you nearer to Himself.

Church family, it is time once again for our annual Community Easter Egg Hunt.

This event is not just something we do because it is fun—although it certainly is that. The purpose is to reach out and serve our community. We want to take this opportunity to connect with and genuinely love the people who live around our church. Many of them may never walk through our doors on a Sunday morning unless a relationship is formed first.

There will be food, games, inflatables, and, of course, Easter egg hunts for all ages. But more important than the activities is the opportunity. Opportunities to have conversations. Opportunities to learn names. Opportunities to pray with someone. Opportunities to extend an invitation.

Be sure to invite your family, friends, and neighbors. Let’s be intentional about using this event as a bridge for the gospel.

First, I must admit my ignorance in this situation. I do not fully understand all that is happening, and I do not fully trust every report or every opinion that is circulating. There is much noise and much uncertainty.

Second, we should remember that war is, tragically, common to mankind. Human history is filled with conflict. In fact, only a small fraction of recorded history has been free from war. This is one of the clearest reminders that our world is broken and in need of redemption.

Third, our military members and the people directly affected by this conflict need our prayers. Behind every headline are families, fears, and lives that are forever changed. We must pray for protection, wisdom for leaders, and comfort for those who are suffering.

Fourth, and most importantly, we must pray that God would redeem this situation and be glorified. The Lord is not surprised by global events. He is sovereign even over the unrest of nations. We should ask Him to use even this for the advancement of the gospel and the display of His glory.

Church family, March will give us opportunities to be revived, to reach our community, and to intercede for a broken world. Let’s step into it prayerfully, faithfully, and with our eyes fixed on Christ.

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are awesome and full of majesty. You are the Lord our God, and we worship You. Lord, I ask that you would bring revival to New Hope. I pray that You would use Your servant Dr. Carl Bradford to bring Your Word to Your church. I pray that Your name would be glorified through our time as we worship Your great name. Lord, please lead us to be the church that you would have us to be for Your eternal glory.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

It absolutely baffles me to think about all that has changed in the last year.  Meeting new people, learning new things, reading books... if you get down to it, last year at this time, I had never heard of "Sweet, Sweet Spirit," I had not yet preached a sermon in a pulpit, and I still had an appendix.  A lot can change in a year.

The greater joy, though, comes in realizing what has remained the same.  Pastor Ben pointed out in the last blog post that we all have a "sense of renewal" as we begin again each year.  Renewing our commitment to one another, to the Great Commission, to Jesus Himself, we are all beginning afresh with what is already warm and familiar.  We are each taking the next steps as we progress further and deeper into the journey of living in this world, but not of it.  And we do so, in the words of a song that I love, "One small step, two at a time," because the Lord is our Shepherd, and He does walk with us.

No matter what might change in any season of life, though, Jesus Christ is King of kings, and He is seated firmly and graciously upon His throne.  Take confidence in this as we continue to move forward together.  We will learn new songs, we will learn old songs, we will read the Word, and we will most certainly pray.  Oh boy, will we pray.  Throughout it all, my wonderful Christian siblings, we will grow to look and love more like Jesus!

Mollie and I are so blessed to have received the call to come to New Hope Baptist Church, to be joined with this incredible family of worshipful believers, and we extend our thanks and our love for your acceptance and welcoming "Sweet, Sweet Spirit" to us... even though there's now one less appendix.

Grace and peace to you!

I love how the start of a new year brings with it a sense of renewal. It feels like an invitation to begin again. Perhaps there were goals you hoped to accomplish last year but did not. The new year gives us an opportunity to recommit. For others, the past year may have been difficult, and the turning of the calendar offers a fresh start.

What I love most about this sense of renewal is that it reflects the way God works in our lives. No matter how far we may feel from Him, when we turn to the Lord and call on His name, He renews our souls. Regardless of what happened in 2025—or what goals we did or did not achieve—let me encourage us all to make drawing nearer to the Lord our aim in 2026.

If you are looking for a Bible reading plan for the new year, we have one available in the NHBC app. We are beginning year two of a two-year Bible reading plan. If you did not participate last year, you will jump in at Isaiah 54. Please don’t let that discourage you—what matters most is that you are reading God’s Word.

There are many excellent reading plans available online. Some walk through the entire Bible in a year, while others focus on specific sections such as the Gospels, the Epistles, or the Minor Prophets. The important thing is not which plan you choose, but that as disciples of Jesus we are regularly in the Word—reading, praying, and growing closer to Him.

At our next Members Meeting on January 11, we will bring forward the motion concerning the Foundations Team that was presented at the October Members Meeting. At that time, the motion was tabled so that church members could ask questions and express concerns to the pastor or deacons before a vote. On January 11, the motion will be taken off the table, considered as Old Business, opened for discussion, and then brought to a vote.

Below is the motion, the projected process, and the purpose behind this recommendation.

The Deacon Body moves that the church task the Nominating Committee with selecting an ad hoc team, to be called the Foundations Team. This team will review, revise, and, when necessary, rewrite or create new documents for New Hope Baptist Church to ensure that all documents align with the teachings of Scripture. These documents will include the church bylaws, operational policies, and any other documents or policies deemed necessary.

Over the past two years, we have amended our bylaws several times to help New Hope operate in healthier ways. While these changes have been helpful, they have largely functioned as temporary fixes to a structure that needs a more thorough, prayerful rebuilding. The Foundations Team exists to help us create bylaws and policies that will protect and strengthen New Hope for years to come.

New Hope is currently operating under bylaws written in 1989. While they served our church well at the time, the world has changed significantly. Few could have anticipated the legal and cultural challenges churches now face, including issues related to marriage, gender ideology, and religious liberty.

If we are to remain faithful to Scripture and wisely protected as a church, we need governing documents that are thoughtfully and biblically crafted for today. This is why the deacons and I are recommending the formation of a Foundations Team.

This process is not only about protection—it is also about strengthening our future. Think of the Foundations Team as building a trellis: a strong, biblical structure designed to support the ministry God intends for New Hope to grow.

One significant aspect of this work will be transitioning to an elder-led congregational model. This means:

• A group of biblically qualified elders will lead and shepherd the church
• Elders will provide spiritual oversight and handle day-to-day leadership
• The congregation will continue to make all major decisions and remain the final earthly authority under Christ

This model reflects the New Testament pattern of plural elder leadership, encourages accountability, and provides a broader range of spiritual gifts for shepherding God’s people. No single pastor is gifted in every area, nor should he lead without faithful brothers walking alongside him.

The Foundations Team will help craft bylaws and policies rooted in Scripture and designed to support healthy, mission-focused ministry. Their goal is not bureaucracy, but faithfulness—providing clear, biblical structures that support discipleship, accountability, and long-term fruitfulness.
Please join us in prayer as we take this important step together. We believe the Lord is preparing New Hope for a faithful future, and this team will help build the framework to support the work He is calling us to do.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this day when we get to celebrate the new year. We recognize that every day is a gift from You. We worship You because You are the sovereign Creator of all things. We praise You because You not only give life, but You also give new life in Jesus Christ. We ask that You would bless our church this year. We pray that You would give us the boldness that we need to tell others about the gospel. We pray that You would build up Your church for Your glory. Father, help us be a healthy church that serves You and glorifies Your name.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Advent is a four-week season leading up to Christmas when Christians prepare their hearts to celebrate the coming of Jesus. The word Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” During this time, we remember Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem, we experience His presence with us now, and we look forward to His promised return.

Throughout the Advent season, we will light the candles of the Advent wreath each week. The candle serves as a reminder of all that God has given us in Christ. Each candle has a specific meaning.

What Do the Advent Candles Mean?

• First Candle – Hope: This candle reminds us of the prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah and the hope we have because God keeps His promises.

• Second Candle – Peace: This candle points us to the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and the peace He brings between God and humanity.

• Third Candle – Joy: This candle is often pink and celebrates the joy of the good news announced to the shepherds: that a Savior had been born for all people.

• Fourth Candle – Love: This candle reminds us of God’s great love shown in sending His Son, and of the angels’ message of love and goodwill.

• Christ Candle (Center – White): On Christmas Eve, we light the center candle to celebrate Jesus Himself—“the Light of the World”—who has come to save us.

As we light each candle Sunday by Sunday, we are invited to slow down, reflect, and renew our hope, peace, joy, and love in Christ.

We would love for you, your family, and your friends to join us for our Christmas Choir Concert, “A Night of Hope,” on December 13 at 2:00 p.m. at New Hope Baptist Church. The Clear Falls Choir will be performing a number of Christmas songs along with music from our own worship team. We know that it is not night time at 2:00 p.m. but we want everyone to be able to come and enjoy the concert so we are doing it in the afternoon.

This special afternoon of music will:

• Share some of the great Christmas songs that we all know and love
• Encourage your heart with the hope we have in Jesus
• Provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere to invite neighbors and loved ones

Come celebrate the Christmas season with us!
Mark your calendar for December 13 at 2:00 p.m.—we look forward to seeing you at A Night of Hope!

Dear Heavenly Father,

We love You because You first loved us. You demonstrated Your love for us by sending Your own Son to be born of a virgin. Your Son did not only become a man, but He experienced every temptation that is common to all of us, yet without sin. He is the spotless Lamb of God whom You sent to be the perfect sacrifice in our place. He laid down His life on the cross, and three days later, He resurrected from the dead. Praise be Your name! All of this is according to Your sovereign will. We thank You, Father, for loving us so much. Now, Lord, let us demonstrate our love to You through our faithfulness and obedience. Father, help us grow to be more like Your Son that we may glorify Your great name. We are Your servants, Your people, and Your church. Please, let Your will be done at New Hope.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Church family, I have to begin by saying thank you for your generous gifts for Pastor Appreciation Day. You are such a blessing to me and my family! I am truly grateful to be your pastor. I was greatly encouraged by the surprise fellowship and enjoyed all that you did for me. I love my church, and I know that my church loves me. Thank you again.

For the past three years, we have hosted a Trunk or Treat event on Halloween on our parking lot. Every year seemed to grow a little. A few more families from the community would come by, and a few more families from the church would show up to serve. However, this year, Dawn wanted to do a Fall Fest, which was an excellent idea. The goal was to be a place for people to come and spend some time at our event, rather than just going through the line and leaving. While the number of guests from the community was down, the support from the church was way up. It was amazing to see all of you out there, fellowshipping and serving together. It was a blessing to watch our church come together to serve our community. There is such a strong sense of support and unity in our church, and I am praising God for that.

Even though fewer guests from the community showed up, I still believe that it was a success. Sometimes, with events like this, people do not attend. However, I also want you to realize that we cannot count the impact that we had on all the people who drove by and saw us out there serving our community. The impact of our outreach may be far greater than we realize. Ultimately, when we feel led to reach out to our community, our success is found in our obedience, not our turnout.

The Fall Fest was an excellent event. I am looking forward to continuing the Fall Fest in the years to come and seeing how God uses it. I want to encourage everyone to plan on being a part next time as well. Thank you to everyone who showed up to serve, and thank you, Dawn Gracy, for all the work that you put into this event.

At our past Members Meeting, in October, the deacons presented the motion for the Foundations Team. The motion received a second and was tabled until the next Members Meeting in January, when it will be discussed and voted on. In case you missed it, I would like to share the motion, projected process, and speak to the purpose of the motion.

The Deacon Body moves that the church task the Nominating Committee with selecting an ad hoc team, to be called the Foundations Team. This team will review, revise, and, when necessary, rewrite or create new documents for New Hope Baptist Church in order to ensure that all documents align with the teachings of Scripture. These documents will include the church bylaws, operational policies, and any other documents or policies deemed necessary.

Oct. 12, 2025: Present the motion as new business and table the motion until the next Members Meeting.
Jan. 11, 2026: Bring motion forward for discussion and vote by the congregation.
April 12, 2026: Nominating Committee presents Foundations Team to the congregation for a vote.
2026: Foundations Team reviews, revises, rewrites, and creates bylaws, policies, and other documents to give New Hope Baptist Church strong structures that align with the Bible.
2027: The Foundations Team presents their recommendations to the congregation, and the church votes on the proposed documents.
2028: Dissolve the Foundations Team.

Over the last two years, we’ve amended our bylaws several times so that New Hope can operate in a healthier way. Those changes have helped, but they’ve mostly been “Band-Aid fixes” to a structure that really needs a complete, prayerful rebuild. It’s time to create bylaws and policies that truly protect and strengthen New Hope for the future. That is the purpose of the Foundations Team.

Protecting New Hope
New Hope is still operating under bylaws written in 1989. They served our church well then, but the world has changed dramatically. No one in 1989 imagined the legal and cultural challenges we’d face in 2025 — including issues like same-sex marriage, gender ideology, and other societal pressures on churches.
If we want to remain faithful to Scripture and legally protected as a church, we need bylaws built for today. This is why our deacons and I are recommending the formation of a Foundations Team.

Building Up New Hope
This process isn’t only about protection — it’s about strengthening our future. Think of the Foundations Team as architects building a trellis: a strong, biblical structure that supports the vine of ministry God has planned for New Hope.

One key part of this trellis will be moving to an elder-led congregational model. This means:

• A group of biblically qualified elders will lead and shepherd the church.
• Elders will make recommendations and handle day-to-day leadership.
• The congregation will remain the final earthly authority under Christ.

This model reflects the New Testament pattern of plural elder leadership, provides stronger and more diverse leadership, and ensures accountability for those who shepherd God’s people. No single pastor is gifted in every area or should lead without spiritual brothers walking alongside him.

Looking Ahead Together
The Foundations Team will craft bylaws rooted in Scripture and built to support healthy, growing ministry. Their task is to help us create a strong, clear, biblical structure — not for bureaucracy, but for mission, discipleship, accountability, and future fruit.
Let’s pray together as we take this important step. We believe the Lord is preparing New Hope for a faithful future, and this team will help us build the framework to support the ministry He is calling us to do.

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are wonderfully sovereign over all things. You are worthy of all praise, glory, and honor. You are the one whom we serve. We exist for your eternal glory. Lord, please help us be the church that you want us to be. Give us wisdom to build the right structures for the church so that we can do the work of ministry that You have for us to do. May we always bring You glory in all that we do.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Fall is such a wonderful time of year. I love it when the first cold fronts sweep through, knocking down the humidity and bringing that fresh, crisp air. While we still have a little summer left, once September arrives, it always feels like the season has shifted, and we are headed toward fall.

Church family, I am so encouraged by the way God is at work in our congregation. Lately, I’ve sensed a new spirit of unity and harmony that can only be explained by His hand at work. I’ve never been part of a church where the body is so united. It’s beautiful to see our members loving one another and building each other up. God is truly doing great things at New Hope, and I am excited for the future He has in store for us.

If you haven’t heard, New Hope has entered into a partnership with Ryan Lindsey, an IMB missionary serving in Northern England. Through this partnership, we’ve connected with Hope Church in Easingwold, led by Pastor Edward Fenning. He is eager to partner with us in gospel work.

We are planning our first mission trip to Hope Church in July 2026. To help us prepare, we’ll hold an interest meeting on Sunday, October 19, after morning worship. If you’re curious about the trip—whether you feel called to go or simply want to learn more—please make plans to attend. Coming to the meeting does not commit you to the trip, but it will give you the information you need to pray and consider your role.

Missions is always a church-wide calling. Some will go, some will give, and all of us can pray. I encourage you to begin seeking the Lord now about how He would have you be part of this exciting opportunity.

Thank You for all that You are doing at New Hope. We pray that You continue to work in Your church for Your glory. We ask that You build up New Hope so that we can continue to do the ministry that You have for us to do, both here in our community and around the world. I pray that You continue to build up the unity in our church. Father, help us to be united in Christ and Him alone. We ask for Your Spirit to lead us as we engage in missions.

In the bustling streets of ancient Jerusalem, a remarkable transformation was taking place. The early Christian church, born from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, was flourishing in ways that would shape the course of history. But what made this fledgling community so vibrant and impactful? The answer lies in the beautiful portrait painted in Acts 2:42-47, a passage that offers timeless wisdom for today's believers.

At the core of this thriving community was an unwavering devotion to four key elements: the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. These weren't mere activities; they were the lifeblood of a community wholly committed to Christ and each other.

The apostles' teaching, grounded in the Old Testament scriptures and illuminated by Christ's fulfillment of them, formed the foundation of their faith. This wasn't passive listening, but active engagement with God's word, allowing it to shape their understanding and transform their lives. In our modern context, this devotion challenges us to prioritize biblical teaching and preaching, recognizing it as essential spiritual nourishment.

Fellowship, or "koinonia" in Greek, went far beyond casual socializing. It spoke of a deep, spiritual connection that knit believers together as family. This fellowship was marked by sacrificial love and generosity. Acts tells us that they "had everything in common" and were even willing to sell possessions to meet each other's needs. In a world often marked by individualism and self-interest, this radical community stands as a powerful counter-cultural witness.

The breaking of bread likely referred to both shared meals and the observance of the Lord's Supper. These gatherings were joyful celebrations of their unity in Christ, reminding them of His sacrifice and their new identity as His body. Prayer, both corporate and individual, was the lifeline of their relationship with God, demonstrating their dependence on His power and guidance.

This devotion to worship and community life had a profound impact. The text tells us that "awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles." There was an undeniable sense of God's presence among them, creating a holy reverence and expectation of His supernatural work.

The unity and love displayed by these early believers was magnetic. They met daily in the temple courts and in homes, sharing meals "with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people." Their joy was infectious, their generosity remarkable, and their worship authentic. This wasn't a community turned inward, but one whose love for God overflowed in love for others, creating a powerful witness to the surrounding city.

The result? "The Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved." This growth wasn't the product of slick marketing campaigns or entertainment-driven services. It was the natural outcome of a community living out the transforming power of the gospel in visible, tangible ways.

This snapshot of the early church provides a challenging model for believers today. It raises important questions for personal and corporate reflection:

1. Are we truly devoted to the teaching of God's word, or do we treat it as optional?
2. How deep is our fellowship? Are we willing to sacrifice for one another and share our lives beyond Sunday mornings?
3. Do our gatherings, whether for communion or meals, reflect the joy and unity described in Acts?
4. Is prayer a central, vital part of our individual and corporate life?
5. Are we known for our love, generosity, and authentic worship?
6. Does our community life create a sense of awe and expectation of God's work among us?
7. Are we seeing people come to faith regularly as a result of our witness?

The call to be this kind of vibrant, Christ-centered community is both inspiring and daunting. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the gap between this ideal and our current reality. However, it's crucial to remember that this early church wasn't perfect either. The rest of Acts and the New Testament letters reveal very human struggles and conflicts within the community.

The power of this passage isn't in presenting an unattainable ideal, but in showing us what's possible when a group of ordinary people commit themselves fully to Christ and to one another. It reminds us that the church isn't primarily a building, a set of programs, or an organization, but a living, breathing community of people transformed by the gospel and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

This vision of church life challenges our often-individualistic approach to faith. It reminds us that we weren't meant to follow Christ alone, but in the context of a loving, supportive community. It calls us to prioritize our commitment to the local church, not as a burden, but as a life-giving privilege.

As we reflect on this powerful picture of early Christian community, may we be inspired to pursue deeper devotion, stronger unity, and more radical love within our own faith communities. May we create spaces where the presence of God is palpable, where love is tangible, and where the transforming power of the gospel is on full display.

Let's pray for a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our churches today, that we might experience the kind of vibrant, world-changing community described in Acts. As we do, may we become beacons of hope in a fragmented world, drawing others to the life-changing reality of Jesus Christ.

In the early days of Christianity, a pivotal moment occurred that would shape the course of faith for generations to come. As we explore the events surrounding Pentecost and the birth of the church, we uncover profound truths about baptism, belief, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Picture this: 120 disciples gathered in Jerusalem, anxiously awaiting the fulfillment of a promise. Jesus had ascended to heaven just days before, leaving them with instructions to stay put until they received the Holy Spirit. The air was thick with anticipation and uncertainty. What would this look like? How would they know when it happened?

Suddenly, the stillness was shattered by a sound like a mighty rushing wind. It filled the entire house where they were gathered, and tongues of fire appeared, resting on each of them. In that moment, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in languages they had never learned. The birth of the church had begun.

This miraculous event drew crowds of curious onlookers from all over Jerusalem. Devout Jews from every nation under heaven heard these Galileans speaking fluently in their native tongues, proclaiming the mighty works of God. The spectacle left many amazed and perplexed, while others mockingly suggested the disciples were drunk.

It was in this charged atmosphere that Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stood up to address the crowd. His words cut to the heart of the matter, weaving together prophecies from Joel and the Psalms to prove that Jesus was indeed the long-awaited Messiah. He boldly declared that the Jesus they had crucified was both Lord and Christ, raised from the dead by God Himself.

The impact of Peter's words was immediate and profound. The crowd, cut to the heart, cried out, "Brothers, what shall we do?" Peter's response forms the foundation of Christian conversion and church membership to this day: "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

This moment marks a radical shift in how people relate to God. No longer was salvation limited to a select few; now, the promise was "for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." The gospel message threw open the doors of God's kingdom to all who would believe.

The response was overwhelming. That day, about 3,000 souls were added to the church through baptism. This wasn't just a symbolic gesture – it was a public declaration of faith, marking their entrance into a new community of believers.

As we reflect on this pivotal moment in church history, several key truths emerge:

1. True conversion involves more than intellectual assent. It requires repentance – a turning away from sin and towards God – and is evidenced by a desire to follow Christ in obedience.

2. Baptism, while not necessary for salvation, is an important act of obedience for believers. It serves as a public declaration of faith and marks one's entrance into the community of the church.

3. The Holy Spirit's indwelling is a crucial aspect of the Christian life. It's not just for a select few, but for all who put their faith in Christ.

4. The church is meant to be a community of believers who have experienced true conversion, been baptized, and received the Holy Spirit.

These truths challenge us to examine our own faith and church practices. Are we living out the radical, transformative faith that marked the early church? Or have we settled for a watered-down version that lacks the power and conviction of those first believers?

The story of Pentecost reminds us that the same power that filled those first disciples is available to us today. The Holy Spirit continues to work, convicting hearts, empowering believers, and drawing people to Christ.

It's worth noting that this understanding of baptism and church membership hasn't always been the norm. For centuries, the practice of infant baptism obscured the New Testament pattern of believer's baptism. It wasn't until the 16th century, during the Reformation, that a group known as the Anabaptists rediscovered this biblical truth. Their conviction came at great cost – many were persecuted and even martyred for their beliefs. Yet their faithfulness paved the way for a renewed understanding of what it means to be the church.

Today, we stand on the shoulders of these faithful believers, challenged to carry forward the torch of biblical faith. This means:

1. Preaching the gospel boldly, knowing that it has the power to transform lives.
2. Practicing believer's baptism as a public declaration of faith and obedience to Christ.
3. Fostering a church community that is marked by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
4. Ensuring that church membership is comprised of those who have experienced true conversion.

As we consider these truths, we're faced with important questions: Have we truly experienced the transformative power of the gospel in our own lives? Are we walking in obedience to Christ, including in the area of baptism? Are we active members of a local church, participating in the life of the body of Christ?

The story of Pentecost and the birth of the church isn't just ancient history – it's a living reality that continues to shape our faith today. May we be inspired by the faith of those first believers, challenged by their obedience, and empowered by the same Holy Spirit that filled them on that remarkable day.

Let's pray for a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our lives and churches. May we see a resurgence of bold faith, transformative conversions, and vibrant church communities that reflect the power and beauty of that first Pentecost. The same God who birthed the church two thousand years ago is still at work today, calling people to Himself and building His kingdom. Will we answer the call?

August is here, and that means it’s time for back to school. For kids, this marks the end of summer—and they’re not ready. For parents, it means the kids are heading back to school—and we are ready.

It’s been a great summer at New Hope. We’ve had many ministry opportunities, including VBS, Preteen Camp, and a mission trip to Buda, TX. Alongside vacations and other travels, it’s been a full and busy season for our church. While ministry certainly continues, the fall typically brings a slower pace. I hope that we can all take a moment in this new season to slow down and catch our breath.

We’ve recently begun a new sermon series focused on what it means to be a healthy church. This series is organized into four main categories.

The first category is what a healthy church believes. We’ve already covered the three sermons in this category: expositional preaching, biblical theology, and the gospel.

The second category is who makes up the church. In this section, we’ll explore topics such as true conversion, believer’s baptism, church membership, the Lord’s Supper, and church discipline.

The third category is what a healthy church does. A healthy church worships God, lives on mission, evangelizes the lost, and engages in discipleship.

The final category is who leads the church. We’ll examine the congregation as the final earthly authority, elders who lead the church to obey God’s Word, and deacons who are called to serve the church. We’ll conclude the series with a message on what a model church looks like in Scripture.

Each sermon is meant to highlight a different aspect of church health, helping New Hope grow in our understanding and practice. The aim of this series is to help shape the culture of our church.

Since my arrival in May of 2022, God has placed on my heart a strong conviction to lead New Hope to be a healthy church. My primary responsibility in obeying God is to lead our church to obey His Word in all that we do. As we build a healthy church culture, New Hope will develop sound doctrine, grow faithful members, engage in meaningful ministries, and build strong structures.

Ultimately, my desire is to lead New Hope to become a healthy church that worships God, grows disciples, and shares the good news with the world. However, we must remember that this is something only God can truly accomplish.

So, New Hope, I ask you to join me in prayer. Let’s ask God to make us a healthy church, to use us for His kingdom, and to glorify His great name.

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are great and mighty! We praise Your glorious name!

Thank You, Lord, for calling us to be Your people. Thank You for Your wonderful gift of salvation. Thank You for giving us a church family here at New Hope.

We ask You to bless our church so that we might grow spiritually and become a healthy church that accomplishes Your will. God, move in New Hope in such a way that we all see the future You have for us.

Father, we look forward to seeing You continue to work powerfully in and through our church. May Your will be done in all these things.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

In a world where Christianity is often reduced to a simple checkbox on a survey or a one-time decision, it's crucial to understand what true conversion really means. The Bible paints a vivid picture of conversion as a life-altering transformation, not just a momentary choice.

The startling reality is that while over half of American adults who identify as Christians claim to have made a personal commitment to Jesus, only 33% say their faith actually transforms their daily lives. This disconnect between profession and practice raises a critical question: What does genuine conversion look like?

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, provides profound insights into this matter. He presents three key indicators of true conversion that should cause us to examine our hearts and lives:

Paul begins with a triumphant declaration: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). This freedom from condemnation is not a license to sin, but rather a liberation from sin's dominion over our lives.

True conversion doesn't just change our eternal destination; it changes our present reality. We are no longer slaves to sin but have been set free to live righteously. This doesn't mean we never struggle with sin, but it does mean that sin no longer has the final say in our lives.

Consider the testimony of a former drug addict who, upon conversion, felt such conviction after one relapse that they never touched drugs again. This is the power of true conversion – it breaks the chains that once bound us.

Paul continues by contrasting two mindsets: "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit" (Romans 8:5).

True conversion isn't just about behavior modification; it's about a fundamental shift in our thinking and desires. Our minds become oriented towards the things of God rather than the gratification of our fleshly desires.

This transformation is evident in the fruit it produces. As Paul elaborates in Galatians 5, the works of the flesh (such as sexual immorality, strife, and drunkenness) give way to the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control).

It's important to note that this transformation is ongoing. We don't achieve perfection overnight, but there should be a clear trajectory of growth and change in our thinking and actions.

Perhaps the most definitive mark of true conversion is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Paul states unequivocally: "Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him" (Romans 8:9).

The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives is not just a theological concept; it's a tangible reality. It manifests in conviction of sin, guidance towards righteousness, and empowerment for godly living. The Spirit's presence assures us of our salvation and continually works to conform us to the image of Christ.

Moreover, the indwelling Spirit is our guarantee of future glory. Paul reminds us that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies (Romans 8:11). This promise of resurrection and eternal life with God is the ultimate hope of every true believer.

In light of these truths, we must ask ourselves some probing questions:

- Do we experience freedom from the power of sin in our lives?
- Is our mind being continually transformed, focusing more on the things of God than the things of the flesh?
- Do we sense the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

True conversion is not about perfection, but it is about direction. It's a lifelong journey of being transformed by the power of God's Spirit.

At the core of our faith lies a profound mystery - the gospel of Jesus Christ. This good news has the power to radically change lives, offering hope and salvation to all who believe. But what exactly is the gospel, and how does it continue to work in the lives of believers long after their initial moment of faith?

The gospel, simply put, is the good news of Jesus Christ. It's the message that God, in His infinite love and mercy, sent His Son to live a perfect life, die on the cross for our sins, and rise again three days later. This sacrificial act opens the door for all who believe to receive forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life.

But the power of the gospel doesn't stop at the moment of salvation. It continues to work in the lives of believers, transforming them from the inside out. As the Apostle Paul boldly declared in Romans 1:16-17:

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith.'"

These verses reveal several crucial truths about the gospel:

1. It is powerful: The gospel isn't just a nice story or a set of moral guidelines. It is the very power of God at work in our lives.

2. It is for everyone: No matter who you are or where you come from, the gospel offers salvation to all who believe.

3. It reveals God's righteousness: Through the gospel, we see God's perfect character and His plan to make us righteous.

4. It is received by faith: From start to finish, our relationship with God is based on faith - trusting in Him and His promises.

The transformative power of the gospel works in three key stages:

1. Justification: This is the moment when we first put our faith in Christ. Our sins are forgiven, Christ's righteousness is credited to us, and we receive the Holy Spirit. It's a complete change of status before God. At that moment that we believe in the gospel, we were saved from the penalty of sin.

2. Sanctification: This is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. The Holy Spirit works in us, gradually transforming our thoughts, attitudes, and actions to align with God's will according to the truth of God's Word. Throughout this process we are being saved from the power of sin.

3. Glorification: This is the final stage, when we will enter into eternal glory to be with God and perfectly conformed to the image of Christ. At this point, we will be saved from the presence of sin forevermore.

The beauty of the gospel is that it doesn't just save us from something (the penalty of sin), but it saves us for something (a life of purpose and transformation). As we continue to live by faith, we should see evidence of God's work in our lives. The famous hymn writer John Newton captured this idea beautifully:

"I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I wish to be, I am not what I hope to be; but by the grace of God, I am not what I once was."

This ongoing transformation should affect every area of our lives:

1. Our minds: As we study God's Word, the Holy Spirit gives us new insights and understanding.

2. Our hearts: We begin to feel conviction over sin and a growing desire to please God.

3. Our actions: We start to live out God's commands, loving Him and loving others in practical ways.

The gospel calls us to a life of faith - not just believing certain facts about Jesus, but entrusting our whole lives to Him. This kind of faith isn't always easy. It means being unashamed of the gospel, even when the world mocks or rejects it. It means trusting God with our time, our resources, and our future. It means continually turning away from sin and toward Christ, even when it's difficult.

But as we live by faith, we begin to reveal God's righteousness to the world around us. Our transformed lives become a powerful testimony to the reality and power of the gospel. We may be the only representation of Christ that some people ever see - what an incredible responsibility and privilege!

It's important to remember that this transformation is a process. We won't be perfect this side of heaven, and our growth may not always be linear. There will be ups and downs, struggles and victories. But the key is to keep walking by faith, trusting that God is at work in us.

The gospel isn't just for new believers or for those moments when we feel particularly spiritual. It's the foundation for our entire Christian life. We never outgrow our need for the gospel. Each day, we need to remind ourselves of who God is, what He's done for us in Christ, and who we are in Him.

As we reflect on the power of the gospel, let's ask ourselves some challenging questions:

- Am I living as though I'm unashamed of the gospel?
- How has the gospel changed my life since I first believed?
- Am I continuing to experience the transforming power of the Holy Spirit?
- In what areas of my life do I need to trust God more fully?
- How can I more effectively share the hope of the gospel with others?

May we never lose our wonder at the gospel's power to save and transform. Let's continue to center our lives on this good news, allowing it to shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions. As we do, we'll find ourselves growing more and more into the likeness of Christ, revealing God's righteousness to a world in desperate need of hope.

Remember, the gospel isn't just something we believed once upon a time. It's the very power of God at work in us today, tomorrow, and for all eternity. Let's live in light of this amazing truth!

Have you ever felt lost while reading the Bible? Like you're trying to navigate a complex map without understanding the legend or key landmarks? You're not alone. Many of us struggle to see how all the parts of Scripture fit together into one cohesive story. But what if there was a way to unlock the Bible's grand narrative and see Jesus on every page?

This is where biblical theology comes in. Far from being a dry academic exercise, biblical theology is about understanding how all of Scripture points to Jesus Christ and God's plan of redemption. It's about seeing the forest, not just the individual trees.

Let's take a journey through a powerful story in Luke 24 that illustrates this beautifully. Picture this: It's the first Easter Sunday. Jesus has been crucified, and His followers are confused, heartbroken, and afraid. Two disciples are walking to a village called Emmaus, discussing recent events with heavy hearts. Suddenly, a stranger joins them – it's Jesus, but they don't recognize Him.

As they walk, Jesus begins to teach them, starting with Moses and all the Prophets, explaining how the entire Old Testament points to Him. Can you imagine that Bible study? The resurrected Christ Himself showing how all of Scripture tells His story!

Later, when Jesus reveals Himself to all the disciples, He says something profound: "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled." (Luke 24:44)

This is the essence of biblical theology – seeing how every part of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, reveals Jesus and God's plan of redemption. It's not about isolated moral lessons or disconnected stories. It's about one grand narrative of God's love for His people.

Consider the story of David and Goliath. Many of us tend to read ourselves into the story as David, thinking, "I just need more faith to slay the giants in my life." But that misses the point entirely. We're not David in that story – we're the terrified Israelites, unable to face the giant of sin and death on our own. We need someone else to go into battle for us. That someone is Jesus, our true champion who defeats the ultimate enemies we could never overcome.

This approach to Scripture changes everything. Instead of seeing the Bible as a collection of disconnected stories or a moral guidebook, we begin to see it as the unfolding drama of redemption, with Jesus at the center. The Old Testament isn't just ancient history – it's the foundation that makes the New Testament make sense.

So how can we start reading the Bible this way? Here are a few practical tips:

1. Look for Jesus in every passage. Ask yourself, "How does this point to Christ or the need for Christ?"

2. Pay attention to the big themes that run throughout Scripture: covenant, kingdom, temple, sacrifice, etc. These threads weave the whole Bible together.

3. Study the connections between the Old and New Testaments. How do prophecies find fulfillment? How do symbols and types point to greater realities?

4. Read with the big picture in mind. How does each story fit into God's overall plan of redemption?

5. Don't be afraid to dig deeper. Use study resources that can help you understand the historical and literary context of passages.

When we approach Scripture this way, it comes alive. We begin to see God's character revealed more clearly. We understand our place in His story better. And most importantly, we encounter Jesus on every page.

This isn't just about head knowledge – it's about heart transformation. When the disciples on the road to Emmaus heard Jesus explain the Scriptures, they said, "Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?" (Luke 24:32) That's the power of biblical theology – it sets our hearts on fire for God.

Moreover, understanding the Bible this way gives us a rock-solid foundation for our faith. When we see how intricately woven God's plan is throughout all of Scripture, it strengthens our confidence in His Word and His promises.

It also shapes how we live. When we grasp that we're part of this grand story of redemption, it changes how we view our purpose. We're not just individuals trying to be good or find personal fulfillment. We're part of God's cosmic plan to redeem all things through Christ.

Finally, this approach to Scripture equips us to share our faith more effectively. When we understand how all of Scripture points to Jesus, we can explain the gospel more clearly and compellingly to others.

So, let's commit to diving deeper into God's Word. Let's ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to see Christ on every page. Let's allow the grand story of Scripture to captivate our hearts and transform our lives.

As we do, we'll find that the Bible is far more than a collection of ancient writings. It's a living, breathing testament to God's love, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. And as we grasp this truth more fully, we'll find ourselves echoing the words of those Emmaus disciples: "The Lord has risen indeed!"

May our hearts burn within us as we encounter Jesus in all of Scripture. And may that encounter propel us to live as faithful witnesses to His resurrection power in our world today.

This blog exists to help us keep reflecting on God's Word beyond Sunday morning. Each week, we’ll take time to revisit key truths from the sermon and consider how they apply to our daily lives.

This week, we’re focusing on the importance of *expository preaching*—the faithful, verse-by-verse proclamation of Scripture—and why it matters in the life of our church. As we reflect, let’s also ask: *How should we respond when God’s Word is faithfully preached?

In a world where truth seems increasingly elusive, there's an unwavering source of wisdom and guidance that has stood the test of time - God's Word. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the Bible remains a beacon of light, offering not just comfort but transformation.

At the heart of a healthy church lies a commitment to the faithful preaching and teaching of Scripture. This isn't about motivational speeches or feel-good messages; it's about diving deep into the truth of God's Word, allowing it to challenge, convict, and ultimately change us.

The apostle Paul, writing to his protégé Timothy, emphasized this crucial point: "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2). This charge rings as true today as it did centuries ago. But what does it mean for us, and why is it so vital?

Firstly, the expositional preaching of God's Word - that is, preaching that faithfully explains and applies the main idea of a biblical text - has the power to transform congregations into Christ-likeness. It's not about a pastor's charisma or ability to entertain; it's about allowing God's truth to penetrate hearts and minds, molding us more and more into the image of Jesus.

This transformation isn't always comfortable. Sometimes, the truth of Scripture challenges our deeply held beliefs or exposes areas of sin in our lives. But as Paul reminds us, this process of "reproof, rebuke, and exhortation" is necessary for our growth. It's like pruning a plant - while it may seem harsh in the moment, it ultimately leads to greater fruitfulness.

Secondly, a commitment to biblical preaching guards the church against false teaching. Paul warns that "the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths" (2 Timothy 4:3-4). This prophecy feels eerily relevant in our current cultural climate, where relativism often reigns supreme and many seek out messages that simply affirm their existing beliefs.

In contrast, expositional preaching anchors us in the timeless truths of Scripture. It builds in us a biblical worldview - a lens through which we can evaluate the myriad of messages bombarding us daily. When we're grounded in God's Word, we're better equipped to discern truth from error, resisting the allure of false teachings that may sound appealing but ultimately lead us astray.

Lastly, faithful biblical preaching equips the congregation to evangelize the lost. The Great Commission - Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations - isn't just for pastors or missionaries. It's a calling for every believer. But how can we share the good news if we don't know it well ourselves?

Regular exposure to sound biblical teaching deepens our understanding of the gospel and strengthens our ability to articulate it to others. It reminds us of the urgency of our mission, spurring us on to share Christ's love with those around us. As Paul exhorts Timothy, we too are called to "do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry" (2 Timothy 4:5).

This call to evangelism isn't always easy. It may involve suffering, as Paul acknowledges. But we're encouraged to "endure suffering" (2 Timothy 4:5), knowing that our temporary discomfort pales in comparison to the eternal significance of the gospel message we carry.

So, what does this mean for us practically? How do we respond to this call to prioritize God's Word in our lives and churches?

For those in church leadership, it means a renewed commitment to expositional preaching and teaching. It means resisting the temptation to water down the message or avoid difficult topics. It means trusting that God's Word, faithfully proclaimed, has the power to do its work in the hearts and minds of listeners.

For congregation members, it means coming to church with a posture of expectancy and engagement. It means listening not just for practical tips or emotional uplift, but for the voice of God speaking through His Word. It means being willing to be challenged, corrected, and changed by the truth we encounter.

For all believers, it means prioritizing personal time in Scripture. It means approaching the Bible not as a mere religious text, but as the living and active Word of God, "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

It also means being ready to share the hope we have in Christ with others. If we know enough of the gospel to be saved by it, we know enough to share it. We don't need to have all the answers; we simply need to be faithful in pointing others to Jesus.

As we reflect on the power and importance of God's Word, let's challenge ourselves: Are we truly allowing Scripture to shape our lives and worldviews? Are we coming to church eager to hear God speak through the faithful preaching of His Word? Are we equipped and ready to share the gospel with those God has placed in our lives?

In a world of shifting sands, let's anchor ourselves firmly in the unchanging truth of God's Word. Let's commit to being part of churches that prioritize biblical preaching and teaching. And let's allow the transforming power of Scripture to work in us, making us more like Christ and equipping us to share His love with a world in desperate need of hope.

May we, like Timothy, heed the charge to be faithful to God's Word, knowing that as we do, we're participating in something far greater than ourselves - the building of Christ's church and the advancement of His kingdom.

When I came to New Hope, I was called to lead the church to reach our community with the gospel. To pursue that mission faithfully, we’ve made a number of changes—some visible, others behind the scenes—but all aimed at helping New Hope become the church God is calling us to be.

New Hope has been a part of this community since the early 1990s. Over the years, there have been seasons of growth. But for the twenty years before I arrived, the church had plateaued, and meaningful growth had stalled. That’s why one of my first priorities as pastor was to cultivate a new culture—one rooted in the Great Commission.

God placed a clear conviction on my heart: to lead New Hope to become a church where making disciples is not just something we do, but part of who we are. A Great Commission culture means growing as disciples of Jesus and actively making disciples—here in our community and around the world. This identity is central to who we are becoming.

Today, I’m more encouraged than ever. I see a strong core of people rising up, committed to the mission and vision God has given us. I see the early signs of a new culture taking root—a culture where the gospel shapes how we worship, how we grow, and how we serve.

I truly believe God is using this moment in New Hope’s story to prepare us for greater impact—for His glory and for the good of others.

Looking ahead, my deepest prayer is that New Hope would be a church that brings glory to God's name by faithfully building His Kingdom in obedience to the Great Commission. That’s why the Launch Team recently introduced a new mission statement to guide our church forward: “We worship God, grow in Christ, and share the good news with the world.”

This mission statement gives us clarity and unity. It expresses who we are and what we’re called to do. It will help shape our decisions, direct our ministries, and align our hearts with God’s purpose for our church.

But here’s the truth: this mission can only be fulfilled if we pursue it together. New Hope is made up of many members, but we are one body—united under the headship of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and committed to bringing glory to our Heavenly Father.
So, brothers and sisters, let’s step into the future together. Let’s trust God for what’s ahead, walk in obedience to His Word, and see how He will continue to use New Hope to impact our community—and the nations—for His glory.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

I hope everyone is enjoying the spring season so far. Spring is such an important time for the life of the church because it is when we have multiple opportunities to minister to our community and bring glory to God. Last month, we had our Spring Revival with Dr. Keeney Dickenson, where God showed up in a powerful way. The Community Easter Egg Hunt, people in our community look forward to each year. Our Good Friday and Easter worship services were powerful times of worship for the church. All of this was to the glory of God! Now, we look forward to seeing how God is going to work in May.

At our last Members’ Meeting, we approved a bylaw update that requires candidates for membership to go through our New Members’ Class, a candidate interview, and be voted on by the church at the next Members’ Meeting. The New Members’ Class will allow potential members to know who we are as a church before joining, give time for the Holy Spirit to lead them, and help build a healthy culture at New Hope.

Because we now expect every new member to go through this class, it is important that our current members also attend the New Members’ Class as well. Thus, I will be teaching this class in our current Sunday School classes. I will begin teaching this class in the Harden/Kelso class on 5/18, 5/25, 6/1, and 6/8. If you are not currently attending a Sunday School class, plan on attending during these dates.

The New Members’ Class consists of four individual classes. Each of the four classes will focus on essential aspects of the life of the church. The first class addresses the question “What is the Church?” The second class focuses on the question “What Does New Hope Believe?” The third class deals with the question “What Do You Need to Know About New Hope?” The fourth class covers the question “What Does It Mean to Be a Member at New Hope?”

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this day that You have given us. Thank You for Your grace and mercy that we do not deserve. Thank You for the blessing of being a part of New Hope Baptist Church. Thank You for bringing Your people together to serve one another, to advance Your mission, and build Your kingdom. We ask that You would give us the focus to be a church that worships You, grows in Christ, and shares the gospel with the world. Please, Lord, use us as Your servants to reach our community and the ends of the earth for Your eternal glory.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. There are many things that I enjoy about spring. I enjoy that the days get warmer. I enjoy that the days get longer. I love Spring because it reminds us of the wondrous ways of God. Things that appear to be dead from the cold of winter come back to life in the Spring. I love the imagery of this season because it reminds me of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of resurrection that all of Jesus’s disciples will one day experience.

Spring Community Groups begin this month. Community groups are another form of small group designed to provide a place for church members and our guests to begin their discipleship journey. They meet for eight weeks to provide everyone with multiple opportunities to join a group throughout the year. This flexible structure is designed to work with people’s busy schedules today. Community Groups will be a sermon-based small group that provides an emphasis on discussion from the weekly sermon.

There will be two Community Groups offered this spring. The Spring Community Groups will meet from the week of March 23 through the week of May 18. The Barker/Delling Community Group will meet at the Delling’s home at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. The Hollan/Bukowski Community Group will meet at the Bukowski’s home at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings. If you would like to register for either one of these Community Groups, go to the “Upcoming Events” tab on our website and click on whichever one you would like to register for and sign up. These small groups will consist of a maximum of twelve people, so be sure and register soon.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the high and holy calling that You have placed on my life to pastor Your people. It is truly a wonderful prvilidge it is to serve New Hope as the pastor. Thank You for the amazing work that You are doing at New Hope. I pray for New Hope to be obedient to Your will. I ask that You would lead me as I seek to lead the church. God, give us the grace we need to fulfill the Great Commission and build Your Kingdom to the ends of the earth. Father, use us to bring Your name glory forever and ever. Amen!

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Yesterday, Dylan and Mollie Stopher joined the New Hope membership. When they joined, I announced that Dylan had accepted the position of Interim Worship Director. I have met with Dylan multiple times, including once with his previous pastor. FBC Friendswood, Dylan’s previous church, had a commissioning service for Dylan last Sunday and sent him out to serve at New Hope. It is a beautiful thing when churches cooperate to build God’s kingdom together.

Over the last couple of months, I have had the chance to get to know Dylan and see his heart for God, God’s people, and leading God’s people to worship Him. The deacons also met with Dylan multiple times and saw the same things I did. I believe that God has brought Dylan and New Hope together.

I believe that Dylan is going to be a great leader at New Hope as we move in a new direction in our worship. I also believe that New Hope is going to be a great blessing to Dylan and his family. I am looking forward to seeing how God uses Dylan at New Hope. Church family, let’s be sure that we make Dylan and Mollie feel welcome and a part of our church family.

There will be an evening for everyone to get know Dylan on a more personal level as well. On March 9th, at 4:00 p.m., we will have a time for meet and greet with Dylan. This will be a great opportunity for you to come and get to hear from Dylan. He will share his heart for worship and his vision for the worship ministries at New Hope. There will be a time for questions and answers as well. If you are musically talented, come and meet Dylan and talk with him about your talents and let's see what it looks like for you to serve in this area of ministry. 

At our last Member’s Meeting, I announced that we would be moving in a new direction for our worship. Before moving on, I want to express my gratitude for Chris Brown and his faithful service to New Hope for years. Chris resigned from his position back in January. Since that time, Dylan Stopher has been filling in for us, except last week when he was back at his former church.

The purpose of moving in a new direction for our worship is to create a blended service where both younger and older members can worship together. We want everyone who comes to our church to feel like this is a place where they can engage in worshipping God together. Worship should never be reduced down to one style or the preference of a single group. We want everyone to be able to worship at New Hope.

The approach of a blended worship service is to incorporate both older hymns and new hymns and praise songs. I believe that a blended service best tries to capture the biblical principle found in Colossians 3:16, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” I want to assure you that we are not going to swing the pendulum to the extreme of only doing newer songs. The goal is to find a balance that engages everyone as we worship the Lord our God together.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for being our glorious God. Thank you for Your love, mercy, and grace that abundantly pour into our lives. I pray for New Hope that You will give us the grace we need to worship You in the way that brings Your great name glory. I pray for Dylan and his family during this transition. I pray that you give him the grace he needs to lead Your church in praise and worship. Father, give the congregation grace to walk through this time of transition in a way that glorifies You. Father, give us the conviction that all that we do in worship is through Jesus, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and for Your glory. Help us to always remember that worship is not about us or our preferences but for You and Your glory. Father, help us to always remember the promise of salvation, that one day we will be worshipping You forever in Your glorious presence.

Your Servant,
Pastor Ben

I want to begin by wishing everyone a happy new year. I hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday season. Every year, the holiday season is so special because it is an opportunity to make wonderful memories with our family and friends. The season also provides the chance for us to reflect on the amazing memories that we have with those who have gone on before us. With the new year, it is time to step forward into 2025 and see what God has for each of us and us as a church.

The new year can be a pivotal point for churches. This is a time for churches to settle into the status quo and embrace the continued routine of church activity, or it is a chance for churches to evaluate and re-envision the church and its ministries. One of the focuses that the Lord has placed on my heart is to evaluate and re-envision how we develop and mature disciples at New Hope. Over the last year, there has been very little engagement in our Wednesday Evening Men’s and Women’s Bible Studies, Sacred Assembly, or Discipleship Training. Therefore, God impressed upon me that it is time to re-envision these disciple-making ministries.

As I prayed and sought wisdom concerning discipleship at New Hope, I think the first thing that we need to do is to offer Community Groups. I will be giving more information concerning Community Groups at our January Members Meeting. However, I would like to give you a basic concept of Community Groups. Community Groups will meet in member’s homes throughout the week. Community Groups will meet throughout the year in 8-week durations. There will be breaks and opportunities for members to engage in different groups throughout the year according to their schedules. Community Groups will have time for more prayer and fellowship, along with biblical teaching. I desire to see more people engaged in discipleship in our church, and I believe Community Groups can provide the opportunity for more members to connect, build relationships, and mature in their faith together. Community Groups will begin in the spring of 2025.

At this time, the Men’s and Women’s Evening Bible Study will no longer meet. The Women’s Wednesday Morning Bible Study will continue to meet. Also, there will be no Sunday evening gatherings for the time being. I am working on what can and should be offered on Sunday evenings. I do want everyone to know that Sunday School remains the same. Sunday School is the one discipleship ministry that we have engaged in well.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I pray for New Hope today. I pray that we will be a church that serves You well. I ask that You will empower us to engage in the mission that You have given us to make disciples. I pray that we will be a church that glorifies your name. I pray for New Hope to be a church that produces mature and faithful disciples who serve You. Give us the grace, resources, and people that we need to do all the ministry that You have for us to do. We can only do the work that You have given us to do when You empower us. Father, teach our hearts to love you more each day and obey Your Word. May Your name be glorified forever.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Merry Christmas to everyone! I hope we are all looking forward to a wonderful Christmas season. This is a season that brings excitement and joy to many. However, I know this is a difficult time of year for some. We will remember those who are no longer with us and miss their presence, especially if they passed away during this time of year.

As we enter into the Christmas holiday season, I want all of us to remember the wonderful gift that God has given to us, His only begotten Son. God gave us the greatest of all gifts, and Jesus has brought us hope, peace, love, and joy. We remember these precious gifts as we celebrate Advent in each of our services this month.

I hope each of us will be encouraged to embrace the blessings that the Father has given us through the Son in the power of the Spirit. Let us remember what God has done for us and praise and worship God with our lives throughout this Christmas season.

On December 24, at 6:00 p.m., we will gather together for our annual Christmas Eve worship service. Our celebration of the advent of Christ throughout December will culminate on Christmas Eve when we light the Christ candle during the worship service.

The focus of the service will be on the coming of Christ and what Jesus came to accomplish. There will be a clear gospel presentation given during the service as well. This will be a great worship service to bring anyone that you know (friends, family, coworkers, etc.) who needs to hear the gospel. This will give you a great opportunity to follow up with them after service to have a gospel conversation with them about believing in Jesus.

Make plans to join us for our Christmas Eve worship service as we celebrate the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. We look forward to seeing you there!

As we approach the end of 2024 and I begin to reflect on all that God has done at New Hope over the past year, I cannot express how blessed I am to be your pastor. I continue to see that God is doing great things at New Hope.

We need to take the time to reflect on how God has worked in our lives and the life of our church. This accomplishes a few things. First, it gives us a record of God’s faithfulness in our lives. As we remember all that God is doing in our lives and the life of our church, it causes us to be grateful. We must remember so that we will give thanks to the Lord our God for all that He does for us.

Second, it gives us confidence to look to the future. When we look back on all that God has done in our lives and the life of the church, it gives us great confidence that He is not done with us yet. We know that God has plans and purposes for each of us and for New Hope. Therefore, we can continue to trust Him and walk in faithfulness, knowing that God is the One who is going to work through us.

As we remember what God has done in 2024, it should cause us to look forward to 2025 with gratitude and confidence.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for being the almighty God of the universe. Thank you for your beautiful creation that we get to enjoy. Thank you for creating each of us and giving us life. Thank you for loving us so much that you sent your Son to give us new life through His death, burial, and resurrection. We praise You, Father, for you have done great things.
 
Father, we ask that Your will be done in our lives and in the life of Your church. We pray that You would use New Hope to fulfill the Great Commission and make disciples in our community and to the ends of the earth. Father, we ask that You fill each of our hearts with love for one another and for the people that we come in contact with during this Christmas season. Most of all, we pray that You will fill our hearts, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to love You above all else.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

On October 27, we had a reception for Pastor Appreciation Day. Many of you joined us in the Fellowship Hall and enjoyed a time of fellowship. It was a great time together. Many of you also gave gifts to show your gratitude. Thank you so much for all the kind words that were written in those cards and the gifts that you gave. My family and I greatly appreciate all those offerings of support and gratitude. I want to say thank you to all of you for all the prayers and kind words that all of you express throughout the year. New Hope is such a kind and caring church, and I am blessed to be your pastor. My heart is full, and I am greatly encouraged by all of you.  I am so grateful that God called me to be the pastor here at New Hope, and I look forward to many more years of serving as your pastor. God bless you, church. 

I know that all the stores are already decorating for Christmas, and it seems that Thanksgiving seems like it is almost a lost holiday between Halloween and Christmas. However, I believe that Thanksgiving is a holiday that we cannot overlook. After all, we are, out of all the people in the world, the ones who have every reason to be thankful. Through faith in Christ, we have been forgiven of our sins and have been adopted into the family of God. We are all sons and daughters of the one true living God. The Heavenly Father is our Father. He has given us salvation through His Son, and He has given us His presence through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Our Father pours out spiritual and physical blessings on His people in abundance. God is so good, and He is our Father. As we look forward to spending the Thanksgiving holiday with our families, let us never forget all the reasons that we have to give thanks. We ought to be a thankful people. 

11/9 @ 10:00 a.m.  - 12:00 p.m. - Production (Audio, Video, & Lighting) Traning
If you are interested in technology at all, this is a great place for you to serve at New Hope. The need for help with the production team has increased significantly since the remodel. Andrew, from Learner Productions, will be here to help train everyone interested in serving.

11/16 @ 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. - Men's Breakfast
All men are welcome to enjoy a great breakfast and time of fellowship. During our fellowship, there is a time of encouragement as we have a time of devotion and prayer.

11/23 @ 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Thanksgiving Baskets
Make plans to join us at Bayshore Park in Bacliff as we partner with the Light Christian Ministries to distribute Thanksgiving baskets to those who are in need in our area. New Hope will be hosting a booth where we will give popcorn out. There will be great opportunities to share the gospel with people who are there.

11/24 @ 12:00 p.m. - Thanksgiving Fellowship Meal
Join us after the worship service for a Thanksgiving fellowship meal. We will have great food and a great time of fellowship together. 

The Southern Baptist of Texas Convention (SBTC) will be having its annual meeting on 11/11-11/12 at Sagemont Church. Please be in prayer for our state convention as we continue to conduct business for the convention. The decisions that are made are important to our church and other cooperating churches as strive to work together to ensure that the Great Commission is fulfilled in Texas and beyond. 

I believe that we might be living in one of the most difficult times in our nation's history. I say that because, from what I can see, it seems that our nation is so divided by political agendas. We are perhaps living in the second most divided time in our history, second only to the Civil War. I am not sure what is going to happen with this election. I do not know if any president is actually going to make things better or worse. I do not know if there is a president that can unite our nation again. In fact, I would say that when it comes to this election, there is a lot that I do not know.

However, there are some things that I do know. I know that no matter who ends up in the White House, Jesus is still on His throne. I know that no matter what happens to our nation, God is still good. I know that no matter how bad things might get, our hope is secure in Christ. I know that whether or not our nation endures, the church will. I know that we can trust our God no matter what comes our way, and that should give us the confidence to endure whatever may come our way.

There are two things that I would like to encourage you with during this election. First, God has given us a wonderful governmental structure that allows us to have a voice in the matter of our leaders. As faithful Christian men and women, we should take the responsiblility to vote seriously and ensure that we do our part by voting. Second, no matter your political position, the other side is not your enemy. Jesus is not a democrate or a republican. Jesus died for the sins of the world so that all might be saved through faith in Him, including democrates and republicans. We need to understand that if we really want to see our nation change, it is going to happen as God uses His church to reach people with gospel and change their hearts; not because the right leader is in the White House. We need to be obey the Lord by making disciples so that we can see our nation change in a way that honors God. 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come to You today on behalf of New Hope. I pray that You will continue to work through Your church for Your glory. Father, I pray that You would help us connect with all the people that You are bringing to New Hope. I ask that You would empower us with Your Spirit to be a church that is bold in proclaiming the gospel of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Father, You are so good! We praise You with our lives. Thank You for Your faithfulness to New Hope. Help us to live in faithfulness to You!

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

Well, for the most part all of our construction is complete. There are still a some finishing touches that need to be completed. The most substantial thing that we are waiting on is the signage for the building. The signage that is being made for our building will direct people from the moment they arrive on our property and help them find their way into the building. Our first time guests will have a much easier time navigating our property moving forward. The interior signage will also have our logo and the blue for our logo on it so it will tie the whole building together. I really think that it will be the icing on the cake!

As we consider all that God has done and continues to do at New Hope, I believe this is a time for celebration for our church. On October 20, 2024, we will have our Remodel Celebration. I am encouraging you to take some of the invite cards that we have at the Welcome Center and invite at least one person to our Remodel Celebration. We want our community to see what God is doing at New Hope. We want them to be welcomed to our church and feel like they belong. Our Remodel celebration will be a great opportunity for that. At our Remodel Celebration, we will have a catered barbecue meal and inflatables for the kids. It will be a great time of fellowship and welcoming. Please pray about who God is leading you to invite.

There are going to be a few important ministry events happening in October. The first one is the Second Saturday Lighthouse Event. We have had to opportunity to partner with the Lighthouse in this ministry a few times and it is a great ministry to the community. This is happening Saturday, October 12th, at 5:30 p.m. If you are able to be there, please plan on attending. We will need help too. There is a sign-up sheet at the Welcome Center where you can sign up for areas that we need help with.

The second ministry that is taking place this month is our third annual Trunk or Treat event. This year, we will have parking lot lights to be sure that everyone can see us! Trunk or Treat is a great way for our church to show love to our community. We are providing a safe place for families to come and enjoy the holiday. Kids get to dress up, have fun, and get plenty of candy. Parents have a place where they do not have to worry about their children. The church has the opportunity to minister to our community and show that we love our community. We will need plenty of candy and people to host trunks. If you are willing to help with this ministry, please let Dawn Gracy know.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving us so much. Thank You for Your faithfulness to New Hope. Father, I pray that You would empower the church to do the ministry that we are going o engage in this month. I pray for New Hope that You would do Your might work through Your church. I pray that You would allow us to reach our community with the gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray that day by day You would add to the number of Your church those who are being saved that New Hope would be faithful in building Your Kingdom for Your glory. Father, thank You for bringing the church through this remodel process. I ask that You would allow New Hope to use this building to do ministry and reach the lost and make disciples. Father, help New Hope to be a church that always glorifies Your name.

Your Servant,
Pastor Ben

I remember my first summer as the pastor of New Hope. I was so excited to be the pastor of New Hope. I was just trying to figure everything out about the church. I do remember that summer thinking that it was pretty calm. I also knew that the summers that were to come would get busier for the church. That thought was true for this summer. It has been busy.

Summertime has always been such a great time for church ministry. This summer at New Hope, we have had the opportunity to engage in some great ministry activities. We were able to hold our second VBS. This year, we had a good turnout of children from the community and volunteers from the church. There was some great discipleship and evangelism at our VBS. On the last day, we invited parents to join us for a special night where they had the opportunity to see some of the things that their children did, and we were able to share the gospel with them. In total, there were over 70 people at the parent night of VBS.

Another great summertime ministry that we were able to partake in is summer camp for kids. We took a group of preteen children to the Texas Baptist Encampment in Palacios, TX. We had some great volunteers and a great group of kids that we took. Summer camp is such a special place for kids to disconnect from the world and have the opportunity to grow closer to God. I believe our kids had that opportunity during that week of camp. It is so exciting to see kids growing closer to the Lord.

Then, a few weeks ago, we took a mission trip to help The Vine Church in Buda, TX host their first sports camp. They had about 30 kids show up for the camp. Each day the kids heard about the Armor of God and how Jesus saves. The Pastor, Josh Clark, was able to connect with some of the parents as well. I know that The Vine Church was grateful for New Hope's support in helping them get their church startedIt has been a great time of ministry for New Hope this summer.

Now, it is only a few weeks until school starts, and summer comes to an end. However, there is still more ministry for us to do. We have been commissioned by Christ and our responsibility to the Great Commission continues all year long. Let us continue to be faithful to the Lord our God and find ways to make disciples.

Our church remodel began back in June, and we are moving closer to completion. The construction crews have been working hard all summer long. There has been much progress made on the project. We are hoping to draw to completion by the beginning of September. Please be praying that the project would continue to go smoothly and that God would use our church building to do much ministry and glorify His name.

Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are God almighty and we worship you with our lives. You are the one true living God who gives us grace and mercy. We will forever be grateful for your love for us. We know that you love us because you proved it on the cross. We praise you for the salvation that we have in Jesus Christ. Father, help us to be a church that glorifies your great name. Father, use us to build your kingdom. Father, above all else, let your will be done at New Hope. May all glory, honor, and praise be to your name forever. We ask all of this in Jesus' name.

I hope everyone is ready for summer because it is upon us. The kids are finishing up school this week and summer break begins. We have some amazing events that are coming up for New Hope. The first thing that I want to make you aware of is that beginning on 6/2 we will move to one Sunday morning worship gathering at 10:30 a.m.

On 6/2, Pastor Josh Clark (the pastor/church planter of The Vine Church in Buda, TX) and his family will be joining us here at NHBC to preach God's Word during our Sunday morning worship service. Following the worship service, we will gather in the fellowship hall for a meal and for New Hope to get to know Josh and his family, to hear his vision for The Vine Church, and how God is at work in Buda, TX. Make sure that you are here this Sunday for this special time of connection and fellowship with the Clarks.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) will begin on Monday (6/3) and go thru Friday (6/7). VBS is one of the most important events that New Hope will do. At this time, we have almost thirty kids registered for VBS. Throughout the week God will be glorified as kids have the opportunities to hear the gospel, come to faith in Christ, and grow closer to the Lord. All of this happens through Bible teaching, singing, missions, crafts, and recreation. This year we are having a family night on Friday for parents to come and see what their children have learned and to hear the gospel. We need every member of our church to be involved in VBS through prayer and service. If you are unable to serve, please pray for the volunteers, the children to hear the gospel and grow, and for the parents to hear the gospel.

The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) will meet Sunday (6/9) thru Wednesday (6/12). We are a SBC church and it is important for us to be involved in the SBC. The SBC meets once a year to come together to elect officers, commission missionaries, hear seminary reports, and do other business. Kim and I will be going to participate in the SBC this year. Please pray for us to have wisdom as we participate in the decision making process of the SBC.

Preteen Camp starts on Monday (6/17) and will end on Thursday (6/20). K.A.H.O.S. stands for Kids Hyped About Our Savior. We will go to Preteen camp at Latham Springs Baptist Encampment. We are taking a group of kids to camp and there are several adult volunteers going as well. Please remember to pray for our kids at camp to grow closer with the Lord and for our adult volunteers.

As of right now, the plan is for construction to start on June 10th. However, we all know that anything can happen and we will need to be prepared to make adjustments along the way. This is a really exciting time in the life of New Hope and I cannot wait to see how God is going to use the project for His glory. During this time of construction, we all need to be gracious and patient as most of our normal scheduled activities will be altered to accommodate. I am confident that we everything is said and done, we will be pleased the final results.  

Heavenly Father,

As we enter into the busy time of summer ministries, I pray that You give us grace to do all the ministry that You have for us to do. That You would use each one of us to do ministry that builds up the body and makes disciples for Your glory. Father, please give us the strength and fortitude to serve You well during this busy time.

In Christ,
Pastor Ben

This May is going to be a special time for New Hope. We are going to bring our Vision Campaign to an end and collect our First Fruits Offerings. The First Fruits Offerings will be on May 12th and May 19th during our normal worship services. During these First Fruits Offerings, we will be asking the congregation to make pledges to support the building project that begins in June. We will ask for a three-year pledge of giving that will be above and beyond your normal tithes and offerings. Following the worship service on May 19th, we will have a celebration fellowship meal to celebrate what God is doing at New Hope.

Since January, we have been focusing on prayer in the church. There are two primary objectives for our prayer emphasis. First, that God would unify us through the power of the Holy Spirit. True biblical unity is something that the church can only experience if it is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Through our prayer emphasis, we desire to the church be unified in the power of God. Second, God would reveal to each individual member what he or she should give toward the Vision Campaign. You see, the Lord loves a cheerful giver and we want to Lord to love the giving that we are offering for our building project. We want each member to be led by the Lord to give what He lays on their hearts. After all, it is God who is going to provide for all of our needs, we just need to trust Him. Please continue to be in prayer for our Vision Campaign and that we will see God work in a mighty way at New Hope.

Vacation Bible School is one of the most important missional outreach emphases that our church will do. VBS offers children the opportunity for kids to grow in their faith as they follow Jesus, to hear the gospel message for the first time and respond in faith, and adults to grow as leaders and serve in different roles. VBS begins June 3rd and ends June 7th. This year VBS will be in the evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Another element that is being added this year is Parent Night. This year, on Friday we are inviting parents to come and join us and see some of the things that the kids learned throughout the week. Parents will get to see their children perform some of the songs and dances and they will hear the gospel proclaimed. Please be in prayer for our church and all the people that will be ministered to during our VBS this year.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the great blessing it is to be a part of New Hope. The church is one of the greatest blessings in our lives. I ask that You would protect Your church from the attacks of the enemy. I ask that You would provide for Your church all that we need so that will be able to do the ministry that You have for us to do in our community and to the ends of the earth. Father, I pray that You do great things in and through Your church. We pray that You would use New Hope for Your eternal glory. Amen.

Have you ever wondered why we hold revivals in our churches? I know that I have asked that question before. At one time, I thought revivals were useless. I thought it was an antiquated practice that needed to be removed from the life of the church. I had witnessed revivals where church members invited members from other churches to come and listen to the revival pastor preach a sermon. It seemed to me that revivals were a way for church members to show off their churches to their friends who attended other churches. In my mind, I thought this was not the purpose of revival.

I could not be further from the truth. That is exactly the purpose of revivals. I thought that we should be witnessing many people coming to faith in Christ at these revivals. However, the reality is, that revival is for the church, not the community. The community can't be revived because the people in the community have not experienced spiritual life to begin with. The very nature of revival is that God works in His people, those who have experienced spiritual life through faith in Christ, in a fresh and powerful way to revive them.

My desire to see people come to faith in Christ through revival is part of God's purpose for bringing revival to His people. When God revives the church, the church will have a renewed sense of purpose and mission. When God brings spiritual revival to the church, the church will naturally begin to reach the community with the gospel. When God is at work in drawing people to Himself through the reviving work He does in His church, He begins to produce an awakening.

An awakening is when the lost people in the community around a church (or other gathering of God's people) hear the gospel from the ministry of the church and many of them believe in Jesus for salvation. When our church experiences revival, the result should be an awakening in our community.

If you have not already made plans to attend our revival that begins this coming Sunday, let me encourage you to plan on attending. This is a great event to invite people to. Invite your lost friends and your friends that attend other churches. We want God to bring revival to New Hope and the other churches in our area. Let's all plan on gathering as God's people to allow Him to work in our hearts and lives in a mighty and powerful way that New Hope would be the starting point of an awakening in our community.

New Hope's revival will begin this coming Sunday (4/7) during both morning worship services, and Sunday thru Wednesday (4/7 - 4/10) evenings at 6:00 p.m. I cannot wait to see how God is going to use New Hope during this time. Join me in praying for revival to come to New Hope and pray that God would use Mike Landry as our revival preacher.