Good morning on this first Saturday of November. From time to time folks ask me questions about Bible study books and what I recommend. I have used most of the study Bibles over the years and frequently use them all, but my favorite is the Life Application Bible. I like it because the notes are succinct but adequate and scholarly but practical. Check it out, I think you will like it. As to a good Bible commentary I recommend The Bible Knowledge Commentary - 2 volume set which was written by the faculty of Dallas Theological Seminary. For any Bible student, this combination of a study Bible and commentary set is a winning combination. Finally, I recommend The Online Bible as a software for computerized Bible study. The good news is that a starter package of this software is available for download to your computer free of charge at http://www.onlinebible.net and the upgrades and additions are very modestly priced.
You can also go to http://www.studylight.org for access to a large variety of Bible translations, commentaries, and study notes online free of charge. These recommendations will help your Bible study to be more productive and meaningful. For a minimal investment you will experience maximal returns. Tomorrow's sermon is the second in the series Proverbs: God's Instructions For Your Best Life and is entitled, Wise Advisors and Advice Lead To Success.
I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of October. First, let me remind you to set your clocks back one hour tonight or early tomorrow morning. Won't it be nice to get an extra hour's sleep? Next, I want to highlight my new sermon series which will get under way tomorrow morning called, Proverbs: God's Instructions For Your Best Life. Proverbs has long been one of my favorite books of the Bible and is one that I have probably read more that any other book. In Proverbs King Solomon reveals his applications of wisdom which are applicable for every area of our lives and are guaranteed to produce results in finance, relationships, career, and our personal lives. Proverbs covers 46 subjects and is far more than mere platitude or poetry - the Proverbs are "Laws from Heaven for successful living on earth." Every principle and practice for success in any endeavor is found in its teaching. Many have pointed to the study of Proverbs as the key to turning failure and defeat into success; Others have built their life, career, business, relationships, and personal objectives upon the strategies taught in Proverbs from the start and have experienced outstanding results. I encourage you not to miss a single one of these messages. Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, The God Factor: Wisdom in Attitudes and Actions Is The Key. I hope you'll be there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, October 24Th. There is much sickness in our community. One of the area high schools reported that one of every five students is home sick and some elementary schools are reporting even higher numbers. The culprit seems to be the H1N1 virus which is living up to its reputation of being particularly virulent. I have previously written of precautions which can be taken, especially related to alternatives to hand shaking as well as the importance of frequent hand washing. Remember a smile and nod, touching someone on the upper outer arm or shoulder, or the Baptist bump (fist to fist) are all good alternatives. Coughing and sneezing into your sleeve instead of your hand is also being recommended. We want you and your family to stay well and are therefore passing along these reminders to you. For many years my wife, Barb, was Director of Communicable Diseases for Rock Island County and she mentioned to me that never in her many years has she seen the flu this severe this early. So stay well and we hope you will slip through this flu season without incident. Tomorrow our special speakers for the final day of our Mission's Conference will be Bobby Bechtel in the a.m. and Riley Shelton in the p.m. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, October 17th. This Sunday begins our Missions Conference at Edgewood. Bobby Bechtel, our former missionary intern and now veteran missionary to Kenya, our own Dan Cullett, missionary to Thailand, currently on medical leave to treat an ocular problem, and Riley Shelton, veteran missionary with Hope For The World India, will be our featured speakers. The special services will extend from this Sunday, October 18th, through next Sunday, October, 25th, and include the Wednesday evening services mid-week, with a variety of special activities and home group meetings included during the eight days of the conference. Additionally, there will be satellite conversations with some of our other missionaries during the services and plenty of good fellowship and food included in the mix. All-in-all it promises to be a blessed time for our church. Plan on joining us for the exciting kick-off services tomorrow morning and attend as many of the scheduled activities as you can. The strong right arm of our church is missions because it is a cause near to the heart of God and one of Christ's greatest commandments given in the Great Commission to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel."
Mel Brown

Pastor Brown has the flu. His blog will return next week

Good morning on this first Saturday of October. The drama continues to unfold regarding Iran and its pursuit nuclear weapons. We now know considerably more than we did before this weeks revelations. We know that:
1. Iran has more than the two previously known nuclear sites. The multiple sites permit Iran to suffer attacks on some of their sites without losing all of the progress they have made in their quest for nukes. If all of their sites are not identified and destroyed, experts say at best we will only delay their progress by two to three years.
2. Their nuclear installation in Qom is deeply embedded in a mountain necessitating a super bomb to reach far enough into the earth to successfully neutralize it. There is considerable speculation about our ability to penetrate deeply enough to destroy it and even more speculation about Israel's capability to successfully attack this site.
3. Their installation in Qom is near one of their missile sites as well as the military site for their famous Revolutionary Guard troops. Clearly this is no accident.
4. The moderate Arab countries near Iran are also highly concerned about the threat of a nuclear Iran, especially because of Iran's willingness to supply radical Muslim groups with weaponry.
5. Russian leaders talked about being more open to taking stronger steps against Iran, but have frequently refused to follow such talk with action in similar situations in the past. Also, remember that Russia has both economic and military ties to Iran and has supplied Iran with advisers and military materials in the recent past.
6. The results of the summit of selected nations meeting with Iranian leaders this week regarding Iran's nuclear pursuit appears to have bought Iran some time in preventing either imposition of tough sanctions or military action.
We'll be carefully watching future developments and keep you informed.
Tomorrow is Friend Day at Edgewood. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of September. Last week we wrote about monitoring items in the news which could have prophetic significance. This week provided a sterling example when the world was informed that Iran has a second nuclear site which has been working at enriching uranium to provide nuclear fuel, which is absolutely essential to the development of a nuclear bomb. It is located deep in a mountain bunker in Qom, a significant religious and military locality. The Independent of Britain observed, "The new revelation sharply raises the stakes at a time when Israel has been signalling that military strikes against Iran are on the table." Given the developments highlighted in last week's blog, what Israel and other nations do in response to Iran's nuclear threat could be the spark which ignites the powder keg in the Middle East. Netanyahu has privately told confidants that under no circumstances will Israel stand by and allow Iran to have nukes. He assures they will launch a military mission to take them out. We'll all have to keep a close eye on this situation. Tomorrow's sermon will answer a series of questions about what conditions will exist during the Millennial Kingdom of Christ. I hope to see you there. Also, don't forget to invite friends and family for "Friend Day" on October 4th when our musical guest, David Meese will be ministering to us with his wonderful voice.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this beautiful Saturday, the 19th of September. As you know from my previous blogs, I like to begin each morning by reviewing news items from various sources to see if any may relate to the prophetic Scriptures. Some examples from this week's news which could turn out to have prophetic significance are:
1. The United States has decided not to proceed with development of a missile shield system in Poland and Czechoslovakia. Russia is elated at this development because they had seen the shield as a threat to their national and military sovereignity.
2. Sources reported that Iran is now nearly capable of producing nukes and in a speech on Friday, Iran's leader, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, after repeating that the Holocaust did not exist and was merely a pretext for establishing the state of Israel, vowed "Israel will not last long. Do not tie your fate to it ... It has no future." He has warned other Muslim nations against ties to Israel and promised to destroy Israel soon.
3. Israel's Prime Minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, speaking in Jerusalem this week said, "Israel will not accept limits on its sovereignity," He has previously repeated that Israel will never allow Iran to produce nuclear weapons because of their threat to Israel's very existence, especially after the repetitious threats of Iran's leader.
Keeping a watchful eye on each of these developments is important considering the teaching of Ezekiel 38 & 39.
Tomorrow's sermon will continue answering your prophecy questions.
I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, September 11th. In our previous blogs we detailed where the sons of Noah geographically migrated and what their ancient identity became in modern times as nations and peoples. This information is invaluable to any student of prophecy as we identify the modern nations derived from them and plug their identities into prophetic Scriptures. Names such as Gog (Russia), Magog (Scythians, part of Russia), Meshech (Eastern Asia Minor, Northern Russia), Tubal (Eastern Asia Minor, Northern Russia), Persia (Iran), Ethiopia (Northeast Africa, Ethiopia), Libya (North Africa West of Egypt, Libya), Gomer (Crimea, Western Russia, Eastern Germany), Togarmah (Turkey, Part of Armenia), Sheba (Yemen, Part of Arabia), Dedan (Southern Arabia), and Tarshish (Spain, British Isles) in Ezekiel chapters 38-39 and Media (the Medes, Part of Persian Empire in Northwest Iran), Persia (See Above), Gr(a)ecia (Greece) , Egypt (Egypt), Edom (Idumaea, Southwest Asia, South of Judea), Moab (Jordan East of Dead Sea) , Ammon (Arabia East of Gilead), Libya (See Above), and Ethiopia (See Above) in Daniel chapter 11 can be determined by referring to this Table of Nations or researching them in a good dictionary or encyclopedia. Read these chapters and plug in the modern identities and the texts will be well illuminated to you.
Tomorrow's message will be one of several which will answer your submitted questions on Biblical prophecy. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of August. In today's blog we look at the descendants of Noah's son, Ham, who inhabited parts of Asia, Southern Europe, and Northern Africa. Here is where his descendants settled:
Cush - Southern Egypt, Abyssinia, Nubia, and Ethiopia
Seba - Sudan
Havilia - Yemen
Sabtah - East of Yemen
Raamah - Southwest Arabia
Sabtah - Eastern part of Persian Gulf
Nimrod - Mesopotamia, Asshur, Nineveh, and Babylon
Mizraim - Egypt and to its East
Ludim - North Africa
Anamim - Northern and Middle Egypt
Lehabim - Related to Libyans
Naphtuhim - Northern Egypt, Thebes, and Memphis
Pathrusim - Upper Egypt
Casluhim - Nile Delta in Egypt
Caphtorium - Nile Delta in Egypt
Phut - Egypt and Libya
Sidon - Phoenicia, City of Sidon
Canaan, Heth, Jubusite, Amorite, Girgashite, Hivite - All originally in parts of Palestine as Canaanites, Hittites, Jubusites, Amorites, Girgashites, and Hivites
Arkite - North of Sidon
Sinite - North of Lebanon
Arvadite - Island off coast of Phoenicia
Zemarite - West of Galilee
Hamathite - Upper Syria
As you can see, the descendants of Ham occupy a large part of the Table of Nations in Genesis chapter 10. In our next blog, (two weeks from today because of Labor Day weekend) we'll apply this Table to the Bible's prophecies yet to be fulfilled.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, The Focus of God's Purpose For Church. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning! It is Saturday, August 22nd. In last week's blog we followed the descendants of Noah's son, Japeth, into their respective regions of settlement and identified their modern-day national and ethnic identities. These identities are especially important in Biblical prophecy because they enable us to identify the modern equivalents of these ancient peoples and show their roles in end-time events. This blog will focus on the descendants of Noah's son, Shem.
Elam - Settled in a portion of Persia, modern-day Iran, which bears his name
Asshur - Assyria
Arphaxad - Settled north and east of Nineveh. His lineage led to Abraham and the Jews. Other branches of his family were progenitors of Arab tribes who settled in Yemen, Arabia, Sheba, and Arabia Petraea
Lud - Settled in parts of Asia and Africa. Some made their way to Egypt
Aram - Inhabited a large portion of Syria and Mesopotamia, Arabia west of Babylon which is the location featured in the book of Job. Note that the word Aram is translated Syrian some 65 times in the Old Testament
Next week we'll look at the descendants of Ham and the following Saturday examine how all of this specifically relates to future fulfillment of prophecy.
Tomorrow's sermon is the final message in the prophecy series, Prophecy Update - 2009, and will focus on the Millennial reign of Christ, who will be there and what it will be like.
I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, the 15th of August. The table of nations in Genesis 10 provides the foundation for the understanding of the nations which will be involved in the prophetic events forecasted in the Bible. In our previous two blogs, we explained this important connection. Here is a list of the descendants of Noah's son, Jepheth and their modern identities as peoples and nations. In the coming weeks we'll do the same for the other sons of Noah.
Gomer - Eastern Germany, Ukraine, Crimea along Danube and Rhine
Ashkenaz - Scythian, Germany
Ripath - Unknown, Likely Russia
Togarmah - Turkey, Turkestan
Magog - Russia
Madai - Kurds, Medes
Jovan - Greeks, Hellenists
Elishah - Cyprus
Tarshish - Spain and beyond, England
Chittim or Kittim - Ionians, Greeks, Islands and Coasts of Mediterranean
Dodanim - Dalmatia, Southeastern Europe
Tubal - Toboksk, Russia
Meshech - Moscow, Russia
Tiras - Eastern Asia Minor, Russia
Tomorrow's sermon is Part 5 of Prophecy Update - 2009. I promise it will be an eye opener.
I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, August 8th. In Genesis chapter 10, a table of nations is provided which is the Biblical basis for the study of ethnology, the science of the division of human beings into races, origins, distribution, relations and characteristics. Researchers in linguistics, history, archeology, and anthropology have verified the accuracy of this record. The New Testament book of Acts tells us that from one blood God made every nation inhabiting the earth and determined the bounds of their habitation (Acts 17:26). Peoples were typically named for their ancient ancestor who settled them, i.e., Canaan the Canaanites, Israel the Israelites, etc. These origins are particularly important in identifying the nations mentioned in Biblical prophecy. The Genesis record lists a total of seventy sons which descended from Noah and his three sons. Shem and his descendants primarily were settled in the regions of the Middle East; Ham and his descendants primarily were settled in Northern Africa and the Middle East; Japheth and his descendants primarily were settled in Europe. From these regions their peoples migrated to other regions throughout the globe. Although their descendants have so intermingled with each other throughout the many ages which followed to produce the many peoples and nations found today, their original destinations and the nations which sprang from them provide an invaluable resource for students of the Bible, especially in the study of eschatology or things to come. Next week we'll delve deeper into the table of nations as they relate to prophecy. Tomorrow's message will be the fourth in the Prophecy Update 2009 series and is entitled, The Rise of the Antichrist. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this first Saturday of August. The conflict between the Jews and Arabs has existed through many centuries. Last week's blog focused upon the origin of these ethnic groups through the linage of Abraham with the Arabs descending through Ishmael and his mother, Hagar, and the Jews descending through Isaac and his mother, Sarah. God promised that both would become great nations. In Genesis 10, a table of nations is presented as descendants of Noah and his three sons, Ham, Shem, and Japheth whom God told to "fill the earth." Seventy descendants of Noah's three sons are listed. In Genesis 10:15-19 the boundaries of the promised land are given as the descendants of Canaan are traced. The study of the descendants of Noah's sons is a branch of scientific and Biblical research called Ethnology from the Greek word ethnos which means nations and is a fascinating study involving the descendant's migration to different lands and regions and the nations which sprang from each part of the linage. Through the years I have extensively studied ethnology and related the findings to historical, theological and prophetic Biblical teachings. In next weeks blog, I'll discuss Genesis 10 and a table of nations as it relates to prophecy. I think you'll find it to be of particular interest as it relates to our prophecy update series in the Sunday sermons. Tomorrow's sermon is Anticipation of Armageddon. I hope you'll be there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, July 25th. Last week's sermon dealt with God's promise to Israel through Abraham of the Holy Land. However, Abraham had two sons, one through Hagar the Egyptian handmaid of his wife, Sarah, named Ishmael and the other through Sarah in her old age named Isaac. How do we know that the promise of the land to Abraham and his descendants was intended for Isaac's linage and not Ishmael's? The Apostle Paul deals with the subject in the New Testament book of Galatians 4:21-31. Referring back to the original account in Genesis chapter 22 where Isaac is called Abraham's only son (22:2,12,16), Paul says that Ishmael was born of the flesh through the slave woman but Isaac was born of the Spirit and was the heir born of the promise (Galatians 4:29). He mentions that Ishmael persecuted Isaac and adds, "even so it is now." In verse 30 he continues, "Nevertheless what does the Scripture say? Cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman." He uses the conflict between Ishmael and Isaac to illustrate the conflict between the flesh and Spirit as they struggle against each other. But in Genesis 21:11-13, God assured Abraham about the future of Ishmael because he was Abraham's seed, and in 21:14-21 after providing for Hagar and Ishmael in the desert, God told Hagar that from Ishmael would come a great nation. Next week we'll explore the relationship between the descendants of Abraham, their history and future. Tomorrow's sermon is the second in the Prophecy Update series. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, July 18th. Tomorrow I will begin a series of messages on Biblical prophecy called, Prophecy Update 2009. I try to follow current events which have any possible bearing on prophetic predictions on a regular basis, but do so with more intensity as I prepare for my periodic prophecy messages. I am particularly excited about sharing this year's messages because of the changes taking place on the world stage which seem to be moving us on a more rapid trajectory toward the fulfillment of prophesied events. Technological developments and applications, alignments and activities of nations, monetary policies and their consequences, and changes in the Middle East especially in Israel are of particular interest. In this Sunday's message we'll focus on the bull's eye on the target of Satan's intent and God's purposes. This message is so important because it will set the stage for all of the future messages by laying the foundation upon which they will rest. We'll also provide a brief overview of future events to review God's prophetic plan. Of all of the messages I preach, the messages on prophecy seem to create the greatest interest. Join us and invite friends and family to come with you - many will respond because they are curious about what the Bible says about future events. I'll look forward to seeing you each Sunday during this series.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this lovely day, Saturday, July 11th. I'm resuming my blog after traveling on vacation to Maryland to visit my twin brothers and their families and enjoying some fun-filled time on the shores of Ocean City. Both of my brothers work at national intelligence agencies in the DC area. As usual our conversations are interesting, informative, and helpful as I prepare for my upcoming series of messages on Biblical prophecy. I've said many times that neither can ever reveal anything forbidden to be disclosed, but can talk about anything already reported in the press. Although I scour the news on a regular basis to stay informed on all pertinent news articles, it is impossible to be aware of every article or piece of information contained in the news on a daily basis. The technological advances alone which are occurring on a continuing basis are formidable and the developments within each country which will be involved as players in the future fulfillment of prophecy is as well. European and Asian geopolitical events can be highly significant, and even minor incidents can have far-reaching implications. All-in-all, these are incredibly exciting times to be alive, especially if you are a student of Biblical prophecy. In future weeks we'll highlight some of them for you.
Tomorrow's sermon is the sixth in the series on relationships and is entitled, Resolving Resolvable Conflicts. I hope I'll see you there. Also, if you missed last week's patriotic sermon on the 4th of July weekend entitled, Freedom is Not Free, I hope you'll listen to it online or get a copy of it on CD.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, June 13th. Last week we wrote about the changing dynamic of Israeli - American relationships and the push for Israel to accept the creation of a Palestinian state. Usually associated with such discussions is the push for Israel to give up some of the land they took during the six day war of 1967. There are two primary issues which are germane to this discussion. (1) some of these territories are now essential to Israel's protection of its citizens because of threats of rocket attacks and incursion by its enemies. These territories provide an important buffer to prevent considerable risk of death and destruction. Because of the increasing availability, sophistication, and accuracy of modern weapons these existing borders have become paramount in importance to Israel's security. (2) When God promised the land to Israel in the covenant He made with Abraham in Genesis chapters 12, 13, 15, and 17, He outlined its broad scope in Genesis 15:18-21 as extending from the river of Egypt in the west to the Euphrates River in the east to the land including the lands of the many "ites" and of the Hittites in the north. These general boundaries include the territories in question.
When you have people near your house who refuse your very right to exist and are determined to destroy you, it makes sense to keep them off your doorstep. Until Israel's enemies accept their right to exist, the Jerusalem Post article cited in last week's blog is correct when it stated that seeing Israel's Arab neighbors "accept the legitimacy of the Jewish state" should be the objective of all American governments. This is a first and incontrovertible basis of any Israeli - Arab agreement and should be the foundation of any Middle East policy.
Tomorrow's message is entitled. Resolving Conflicts. I hope you'll be there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, June 6th. Biblical prophecy experts are keeping a close eye on what is happening in the Middle East in the relationships between Israel and its enemies, and Israel and the United States. The media, after reporting that Israel was on the verge of attacking Iranian nuke sites, later reported that the U.S. had dispatched Leon Panetta, the C.I.A. Director, to Israel to warn them not to launch the attack or they would face "big trouble." Shortly afterward, Benyamin Netanyahu, Israel's Prime Minister, traveled to Washington to meet with President Obama who apparently reinforced that message to the Israeli leader. Later the administration stated that "Iran should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities." Now Israel is forced to consider that a strike on Iran's nuclear sites will jeopardize its future relationship with the United States, its long-standing primary source of support. When President Obama delivered his highly publicized speech to the Muslim world in Cairo, Egypt, he seemed to signal a change in direction regarding Middle Eastern policy. After reading the reaction of many Israeli analysts, I have found a growing concern among them that Israel will have to increasingly "go it alone." Writing in the Jerusalem Post, Efraim Zuroff opined that the real problem in the Arab-Israeli conflict is not Israeli settlements, nor Holocaust denial, but is the refusal of the overwhelming majority of Muslim world to "accept the legitimacy of a Jewish state in the Daral-Islam." He went on to say, "What will bring a true change to our region, and to relations between Jews and Arabs, will be when the later recognize the history of the Jewish people and their connection to Egetz Yisrael and the legitimacy of a Jewish state in Dar-al-Islam. That should be the objective of all American governments, since it will mean the end of the religious conflict between Jews and Arabs, which is basically insoluble, and the beginning of steps toward a peace agreement, which hopefully can one day be achieved." His analysis is absolutely correct. In next week's blog, we'll address the significance of these issues.
Tomorrow's sermon is the fourth in the series on relationships and is entitled, Building Relationships. I'll see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of May. Two weeks ago I wrote in this blog about cyber-spies hacking into our computer systems in many realms related to the security and services of the United States (see blog for May 16th posted in the archives). This week the news media were filled with reports of our government creating a new agency headed by a cyber czar assigned the task of protecting these computerized systems from spying and interference. It turns out that the cyber invasions have been much more extensive than previously known with 1000s of incidents cited every day mostly by hackers but some mounted by foreign governments. The new military command for cyberspace is proposed to be under the auspices of either the NSA or the Pentagon and will prepare to conduct both offensive and defensive cyber warfare. Additionally, the new agency will help protect private sector operations such as stock markets and banking systems. I have been preparing for the series on prophecy updates to be delivered later this year by researching the latest developments in light of Biblical prophecy and am fascinated by how easy the coming one world government and reign of the Antichrist will be when viewed in the light of advancing technology. I hope you are as anxious to hear the details as I am to share them.
Tomorrow's message is the third in the series on relationships and is entitled, Predicting Failure In Relationships. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day was formally called Decoration Day and was established in 1868 to honor those who had died during the Civil War. The formal declaration read in part, " The 30th day of May is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades, who died in defence of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit." It was expanded after WWI to honor all soldiers who died in any war or military action and is observed on the last Monday of May each year as a federal holiday.
It is a day to do the following:
(1) Remember those who gave their lives for our country to preserve our freedoms
(2) Honor their memory through ceremonies, parades, and other expressions of recognition and appreciation
(3) Decorate the graves of the fallen
(4) Thank God for their sacrifice
May we all honor them and the price they paid. Let freedom ring!
Tomorrow's sermon is the second part in the series, Everything I Needed To Know About Relationships, I Learned In Scripture. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, the 16th of May. Have you noticed that gas prices are creeping up at the pump? They are up thirty cents in a matter of days and looking to go higher in the weeks to come. It is not unusual for gas prices to go up during the summer driving season because of increasing consumption, but this year experts are saying the supply and demand equation should help keep prices from rising strongly because world demand is weaker. Russia is clearly feeling the effects from the price of oil falling nearly $100 a barrel as they are one of the world's largest producers and have used the windfall profits from their oil to rebuild their military and stock of armaments. This has led Putin to warn that oil may lead to war. Russia appears to have its eye on some of the smaller countries in the region which either have supplies of oil or pipelines necessary to transport it. Last winter they engineered a cut off of some supplies to a number of European countries during the critical heating season. It is a fact that some of the large oil-producing countries are hostile to the United States and many European countries, e.g., Russia, Venezuela, etc. The world must rely on this oil for the foreseeable future because mass produced suitable sources of alternative energy is many years in the future. It is important to keep a close eye on the haves and have-nots in the supply of oil because many Biblical prophecy experts believe it could be a primary catalyst in the predicted conflicts the Bible presents. Lord willing, we'll deal more extensively with this topic when we do our prophecy update series later this year.
Tomorrow's message is the first of several in the series, Everything I Needed To Know About Relationships, I Learned In Scripture. I'll see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday before Mother's Day. Last week I wrote about cyber-spying and shared how many of our computerized systems have been compromised. I thought I would write one final article further focusing on one aspect of this subject. CNET News reported this week that the air traffic control mission-support system of the Federal Aviation Administration has been hacked by hackers (persons who illegally gain access to and sometimes tamper with information in a computer system) several times in recent years. Up until now the attacks have primarily disrupted the mission-support systems rather than the operational networks, but security experts warn that the nation's critical infrastructure is increasingly at risk and reported that last year the FAA critical network servers fell under the control of hackers who could have shut them down. Now that is a sobering revelation. Imagine a scenario where our enemies could interfere with our air traffic control systems. The nation is facing more frequent attacks from sophisticated nation-sponsored cyber attacks. The stage is being set more each day for the fulfillment of Bible prophecy.
Tomorrow's message will focus on what it means to honor our mothers as the Ten Commandments teach in the Old Testament and Jesus reiterated in the New Testament. We will be recognizing all mothers and honoring a select group with a special gift. I hope you'll be there and be bringing mom with you.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this first Saturday of May. In last week's blog, I related the technological progress we have made to the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, particularly focusing on how computerization has created certain vulnerabilities to the security of both Europe and America. The Times of India quoting National Counterintelligence Executive, Joel Brenner, reported that cyber spies have penetrated deeply in the US systems in a wide variety of areas including the secure defense network, banking system, electricity grid, and even the chips in our defense planes. He said, "We're also seeing counterfeit routers and chips, and some of those chips have made their way into US military fighter aircraft ... its done to degrade systems, or to have the ability to do so at a time of one's choosing," He added, "Do I worry about those grids, and about air traffic control systems, water supply systems, and so on? You bet I do. America's networks are being mapped." Now that really makes you think. The book of Revelation indicates that the Antichrist will control commerce and certain military and surveillance systems in the future and that water systems will be contaminated and communication systems controlled. Cyber realities are making these forecasts more viable every day. It pays to be ready to meet the Lord!
Tomorrow our special guest, Steve Carrier, of Mega Force will be having World Record Day whereby he will break the ESPN record with an amazing demonstration of strength. You won't want want to miss his exciting demonstration and message.
Mel Brown

Good morning! We often hear the saying, "Isn't technology wonderful." The answer, of course, is a definite yes. Computers, the Internet, cell phones, space travel, modern medical technologies such as diagnostics, even robotic surgery, etc. are wonderful inventions, all of which make our lives better, but there is a downside. Biblical prophecies predict things which will happen in the future such as the Antichrist's ability to control commerce and monitor human behavior; these will be made easy by technological advances. In fact, we now have the technology in place which can permit much of what the Bible predicts will happen and newer, faster, better, more advanced technologies are being introduced every day. As more and more of our lives are being influenced, even being governed by these technologies, the coming new world order is gradually taking shape. Our lives are becoming less private all of the time with computerized information being compromised and falling into the wrong hands; hackers are gaining access to both private and personal records as well as corporate, and governmental confidential files. Where is it all going to end? The Bible tells us. We will write in next week's blog about recently reported compromises in a host of important areas which involve our security and safety. You'll want to be sure to read next week's posting, I guarantee it will make you sit up and take notice.
Tomorrow's sermon is How To Make Wise Decisions - Part 2. I hope you'll make a wise decision and not miss it.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, April 18th. I have been working on preparing for my annual prophecy messages which, Lord willing, I will be delivering within the next several months. Each morning I search the stories from sources around the world which could have relevance to Biblical prophecy and analyze them against a Biblical background. Yesterday, the Times of London carried two interesting stories about Israel and Iran. It indicated that Israel is preparing to soon strike Iran's nuke sites and is in fact practicing simulations of the sorties required to get the job done of eliminating Iran's nuclear threat. Israel is convinced that Iran is close to being nuclear capable and that Iran will not hesitate to use that capability against Israel. The article opined that Israel will strike within the near future. The other article discussed the role the United States might play either in support of their mission or in opposition to it and the consequences of our deterrence should the U.S. negatively sanction their plans. Russia has stated that our intelligence information is better than theirs regarding Iran's nuclear progress, that they were not so aware of their immanent threat and that they would try to use their influence on Iran to defuse the situation. However, officials from the former administration have cautioned people in the Obama administration not to be fooled by this rhetoric from the Kremlin because such promises have been given before and have proved to be empty. Clearly the situation regarding Israel and Iran is heating up and bears careful scrutiny. I suggest that you reread Ezekiel 38 and 39 for the possible significance of these events.
Tomorrow's sermon is about how to make wise decisions and is the first of two sermons on this subject. I hope I'll see you there.
Pastor Mel Brown

Happy Easter! Today is Saturday April 11th, Easter Eve. Ever since I committed my life to Christ in January, 1963, Easter has been my favorite day of the year because of its paramount significance to the Christian life and message. The message of the resurrection settled doubts, brought victory, and secured faith and hope at a critical place in my life; therefore, I love Easter and everything it stands for. I hope that it has done the same for you. He lives and through Him who is the way, the truth, and the life we have life eternal and abundant.
This Easter will have an extra bonus because all of our family will be together for an Easter celebration as we have the privilege of dedicating my two newest grandsons, Aiden and Kai, in the 11:00 a.m. services, followed by a large family dinner and time of family fellowship. I am so blessed to have a family where we all love each other, get along, and enjoy being together.
Tomorrow's Easter service promises to be exceptional in every way. The opening presentation called, "The Event," the special Easter music, the Easter message, the "One solitary Life" video, and cardboard testimonies by twenty five or so of our people should make it a truly memorable service. He is risen as he said! I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, April 4th. Tomorrow is Palm Sunday and next Sunday is Easter. Next week leading up to Easter corresponds to the final week in Jesus' earthly life found in the final chapters of the Gospel of John chapters 12 through 21. In John 12:12-19 the Triumphal Entry is recorded where Jesus enters the city in triumph as the people throw palm branches before him - hence the name Palm Sunday. In the following chapters, Jesus observes the Last Supper, prepares his disciples for his betrayal and coming death, prays for His followers in the genuine Lord's Prayer of John 17, is arrested, tried, tortured, crucified, buried, rises from the dead, and then makes numerous post-resurrection appearances. The final week of Christ's life is often referred to as "Passion Week" because the events are focused upon His suffering. May I suggest that you join me in reading these final chapters of John's Gospel throughout next week so we can relive Christ's suffering on our behalf, take time to once again appreciate all He did for us, and express to God our appreciation and thanksgiving for such a wonderful Savior who gave so much for us. Also, let's share the good news of Jesus Christ with as many as possible by inviting them to Easter services throughout next week. He lives should resonate in our thoughts, words and life every day, especially this week. His resurrection produces for us not only eternal life but abundant living as well and this life is too good to keep to ourselves.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, Amazing Grace - Part 2. I hope I'll see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of March. This week has been a very special one for all of the members of our family. On Thursday evening our daughter, Lori, and her family arrived at the airport in the Quad Cities carrying our new grandson, Aiden Michael. We have been anxiously awaiting meeting him since last fall when we saw his picture and received confirmation about his adoption. Many members of Kevin's family and family friends were waiting with us for them to arrive home. We had cards, balloons, and some special welcome home gifts to share and had a great celebration when we met them in the terminal. Aiden has been in an orphanage for his two plus years and we were all so pleased to now be his forever family. He is a shy boy with a big smile and a devious laugh. His Aunt, Cheryl, says she can't wait to get to work to correct his foot and I can't wait to introduce him to the "Grandpa Game," a catch me if you can game that I play with all of my grandsons (they usually beat me but that is another story). On Easter Sunday in the 11:00 a.m. service, I'll have the privilege of dedicating both Aiden and his cousin, Kai, who became part of our family several months ago. Children are an heritage of the Lord and we thoroughly enjoy everyone of our heritages!
Tomorrow's sermon is power-packed message called, Amazing Grace. Hopefully, you won't want to miss it.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, March 21st. Yesterday was officially the first day of spring. I looked over the long-term weather forecast to see if we could expect another blast of snow before the end of the month and was pleased to see highs forecast to be mostly in the 40s and 50s for the next 10 days. Most people are glad to see this winter come to an end because it, together with last winter, have been particularly harsh. Now we have buds forming on the trees, grass beginning to turn and tulips ready to make their early spring appearance. Spring is about signs of life everywhere. It is the evidence of resurrection in plants and foliage, but technically speaking it is not a true parallel to Christ's resurrection because the plants are merely dormant not dead. When Christ died, his body was devoid of life completely and God brought life out of death, a resurrection not a reemergence. Having made that important distinction, here are some points of similarity between spring and Easter:
(1) Easter and spring reveal a recrudescence (breaking out afresh) of life
(2) Easter and spring represent an end to that which was lost
(3) Easter and spring bring both relief and hope
As we prepare to celebrate Easter which is now only three weeks away, may all of the meaning of our Savior's resurrection fill our hearts with joy and may every sign of renewed life around us this season remind us of His resurrection. HE LIVES! Let's celebrate His resurrection every day, enjoy the victory it brings to us and share our faith and its benefits with others.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, Vision - 2009. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this beautiful sunshine-filled day, Saturday, March 14th. Last night I talked to my daughter, Lori, and her family in Beijing via video phone through Skype on my computer. We not only saw each other live on the screen as we talked, but also saw details of their hotel room in the background. Isn't modern technology wonderful to see and hear each other half a world away on a toll-free basis. They arrived in China on Friday and will get their new son on Sunday. I'm sure they can't wait to hold him in their arms for the first time and meet the little guy they have dreamed of for so long. Last week I mentioned their travel web site, www.adoptionwebsites.net and recommended that you visit the site periodically to check on their progress by clicking on the name, Aiden Michael, on the right side of the screen. Lori is regularly updating the site with pictures, video clips and written progress reports of their adoption journey. There is also an opportunity for you to leave them a message on the site through the guestbook tab on the left side of the screen. Barb and I can Skype them each evening to see how they are doing and plan to introduce ourselves to Aiden shortly after they get him when they put him in front of the computer camera. We are probably as excited about that moment as they are.
Tomorrow's message is The Vision Of Christ For His Church: Evangelism. I sure hope I'll have the joy of seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this the first Saturday of March. Let me begin with a reminder to turn your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed tonight for the beginning of daylight savings time.
Our family is anxiously anticipating a journey which will begin this Thursday morning. My daughter, Lori, her husband, Kevin, and granddaughter, Kaitlynn, will leave for China to meet their new little boy and brother, Aiden. He is a two year old who suffers from a treatable foot problem who will soon be arriving at his new home with our family. They will leave on March 12th and return on March 26th. Our daughter, Cheryl, will treat his foot problem and we anticipate that he will soon be like his cousin, Kai, who suffered from foot problems when he joined our family and is now good as new after his mother successfully treated his feet.
Lori has established a web site to chronicle her journey and will keep us posted about the day-to-day details of the trip and post pictures as they go. The web site address is www.adoptionwebsites.net and if you look on the right side of the screen under Aiden-Michael, you'll access their pages. We'll also keep in touch on a regular basis by Skype on the Internet where we will be able to see each other as well as talk for free, I'll keep you posted.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, The Vision Of Christ For His Church: Serving. I hope you'll be able to be there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last day of February. Did you know that your faith in Christ is good for your health? It is also good for your mental health, your pocketbook, and your attitude about the future in general and your future in particular. Numerous studies in recent years have shown that devout Christians are generally physically healthier (reasons given were living healthier lifestyles without tobacco or alcohol usage and less effect of personal stress because of taking their burdens to the Lord), mentally healthier with less depression and anxiety, tend to manage their money more wisely, and have a view that the Lord is in control of both the future and their future which gives them peace and assurance. They also have less fear of dying because the know by faith where they are going and believe that dying is a gateway to a better life where they will be with their Savior. One additional bonus is that believers tend to live longer. Wow, what a benefit package comes with a personal relationship with Christ besides eternal life. All of this leads to two great questions: (1) Do you know Christ as your personal Savior, (2) Are you sharing this good news of the gospel with others so they can experience these benefits?
Tomorrow's sermon will again focus on one of Christ's missions for the church - Fellowship.
I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you tomorrow morning in the worship services.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, February 21st. Two important bits of news emerged this week which could have serious relevance to Biblical prophecy. The first was the revelation that Iran now has enough nuclear material to make a nuclear bomb. Iran has about one-third more nuclear material than was previously thought according to the latest reports and that has given them enough to make a bomb. Since Iran's leadership has repeatedly threatened to destroy Israel, this development could have grave consequences. In fact the second bit of news was the emergence of Binyamin Netanyahu from the recent Israeli elections as Israel's new prime minister. He has reacted to the news about Iran by saying that this development presents "the gravest threat to our existence since the war for independence." Netanyahu has been a strong advocate for confrontation rather than compromise and his ascension to power could be highly significant in the unfolding drama of the Middle East. Also, Iran has recently again stated their appreciation for the help and support of Russia in a variety of ways to their country, although Russia has publicly stated that they oppose Iran's development of a nuclear weapon. If Iran's nuclear threat to Israel is now at the brink of fruition, what will Israel do to eliminate this threat? The answer to this question could provide the steps to fulfillment of Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. I am keeping a close eye on all of these developments and will keep you informed as I do.
Tomorrow's sermon focuses on discipleship as one of Christ's missions for His church. I hope I'll have the pleasure of seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, February 14th. Have you ever heard the saying that every one's taste buds are different. That is certainly true. One person loves a certain food and another does not care for it. One person is enthusiastic about a restaurant and another refuses to eat there. But some special foods seem so incredibly good, everybody loves them. Such was the case with a dessert called The Extravaganza at a restaurant in Orlando where my mother-in-law lives. It was a gigantic concoction of wonderful delights served in a bowl large enough to feed a whole table of people and was sheer delight to the palate - a gastronomical extravaganza, hence its name. Throughout the years when visiting the area, we always made it a point to have one. No trip to central Florida was ever complete unless we ordered one. Sadly the restaurant went out of business a few years ago and the dessert is no longer available.
The Psalmist says, O taste and see that the Lord is good, happy is the man who trusts in Him (Psalm 34:8). When we find something that is so appealing, so tasty, we want to share it with others and frequently tell them, "You've got to try this, it is just wonderful. I know you're going to love it." The writer of the Psalm is telling us that the Lord satisfies a taste in our lives that everyone can enthusiastically share because He is guaranteed to satisfy the deepest longing of our hearts and it is a taste that will linger and satisfy for the rest of our lives. The good news is that He will always be available to satisfy that taste, to quench that thirst and to fulfill that need. He invites us to see for ourselves - O taste and see that the Lord is good. Have you tasted for yourself? Then you have experienced the Extravaganza about which the writer is talking.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, The Vision Of Christ For His Church: Worship and will focus on what worship is and how to do it. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this first Saturday of February. It is good to be home again after two weeks away. It is so true that there is no place like home. Taking some leisure time is great, but after a couple of weeks, I am always anxious to get back to work because I miss our church and the teaching and preaching of God's Word. I appreciate the many of you who have shared with me what a fine job our two newest associates, Pastor Craig and Pastor John, did in preaching during the two Sundays I was away. I had every confidence you would be blessed by their pulpit ministry even as the Edgewood Youth and Singles have been blessed by their leadership and respective ministries. Truly the Edgewood Baptist Church is blessed with a wonderful and gifted staff and I always know that our people will be well served when I am away.
Tomorrow's message will focus on Christ's vision for our church and is entitled, The Vision Of Christ For His Church. I'll look forward to being back in the pulpit and having the privilege of seeing you then.
By the way, I hope you are enjoying some of the Florida weather I brought back with me this weekend.
Mel Brown

Pastor Brown is on vacation. His blog will return next week.

Good morning on this Saturday morning, the 24th of January. I'm writing this blog from my mother-in-law's home in central Florida. There is an old saying, "Success is relative; when you are successful, the relatives will come." For many years Barb and I have visited her mother in January. Each year is more special because of her advanced years (she's 94) and the fact that we've almost lost her on three recent occasions with cardiac arrest. Not only is success relative, but so is people's reaction to the weather. When we arrived in Florida, a cold front followed us and stayed for several days with temperatures below freezing. It is the longest cold spell Florida has experienced in two decades. Floridians have bitterly complained about how cold it is here and I chuckle to myself when I think, 27 degrees above is nothing compared to the 27 degrees below zero we've recently experienced at home. It is all relative, but to see people down here bundled up with these temperatures similar to the way that people dress when it is excessively cold at home is quite a site. Since we can't change the weather, it is a good idea to make the best of it and go on. To her many friends at Edgewood, Barb's mother sends a warm hello. Pastor Craig Stevenson, our Youth Pastor will be speaking tomorrow. You won't want to miss it. Lord willing, I'll be attending my nephew's church. Have a wonderful Lord's day.
Pastor Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, the 17th of January. Beyond dispute we are having an old fashioned, button-up, bone-chilling winter in the mid-west. By some measures the mercury reached -29 (that's 29 degrees BELOW ZERO) yesterday. Chicago reached two milestones so far this winter, the longest string of consecutive days of measurable snowfall (nine days) and the coldest winter in a decade. Obviously the Quad Cities is sharing equally in the pain the winter weather has wrought this year. Other parts of the country have it much worse with Alaska enduring temps of -70 degrees and Spokane six feet of snow on the ground, although that is cold comfort when your teeth are chattering here. Now is the time to apply a Biblical principle found in the Book of Ecclesiastes, the principle of counteraction thinking. It says, In the day of prosperity, be joyful; but in the day of adversity, consider: God also has set the one over against the other (Ecclesiastes 7:14a). This harsh winter weather should make us both anticipate and appreciate the joys of warmer weather. I know that I will rejoice in those sun-kissed days and balmy evenings even more because of the extreme cold we have endured this winter. So when trudging along on these frigid days, consider that when the warm breezes come, we will relish them even more because of their contrast to the extreme cold as we experience the fruits of the counteraction principle.
Tomorrow's sermon is Making The Most Of Your Money - Part 3. Please make sure to pick up the notes which are chocked full of money-saving tips and applications of Biblical financial principles at the Information Desk in the main foyer. I hope to see you in church tomorrow.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this the second Saturday of 2009. Now that the holidays are over and I have written about the joys of being with family and the many blessings associated with the celebrations of Christmas and New Year, it is important to remember that for some the holidays are a time of sadness and depression, especially their aftermath. In fact more people seek the help of professional counselors in the period after the Christmas holidays than any other time of the year. Why is this true, you may ask? There are several reasons. (1) For some there is conflict and unhappiness when people who don't get along are forced to spend extra time together because of the holiday get-togethers. This causes personal and interpersonal stress and strain. (2) For some there is financial pressure because of spending money they don't have, then struggling with the guilt and stress caused by the overspending. The added financial burden can be crippling. (3) For some the holidays are a let down because they have spent much of them alone and while so many around them were rejoicing, they have been alone and lonely. (4) For some who have lost a loved one or gone through a crisis during a previous Christmas, there is suffering from "Anniversary Illness" or a cycling of the blues brought on by the unhappy associations and memories of the previous painful episode during the holidays.
These are a few of the many reasons for post-holiday blues; there are many more. As believers we should be aware that some people are having a difficult time now and practice Biblical exhortation or the encouragement of those who need it (Hebrews 10:25) and when one of us hurts, we are to feel their pain (Romans 12:15). In so doing we will bear one another's burdens (Gal. 6:2). Do you know any such prospects you should pray for and call or visit now? Then let's put feet to our prayers and be doers of the word not merely hearers.
Tomorrow's sermon is the second part on Making The Most Of Your Money. I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Pastor Mel Brown

Good morning on this first Saturday of 2009. It is important to practice the spiritual habits which will produce spiritual growth during the rest of this new year. The following suggestions should prove to be helpful in doing so.
(1) If you read five chapters of the Bible each day you will easily read the Bible through this year. By reading four chapters of the Old Testament and one of the New Testament you will add variety to your Bible reading. Even only reading one chapter of the New Testament every day will enable you to read the New Testament through several times this year.
(2) Use a good study Bible for your reading so you can read the accompanying explanatory notes and chapter headings to add clarity, understanding, and meaning to your time in Scripture. The Life Application Bible is my personal favorite.
(3) Make a personal prayer list and include on it the following:
A. List your personal requests for which you will regularly pray and update it as often as needed.
B. List others for whom you will regularly pray. Family members, friends, the sick, the bereaved, people who need Christ or are away from the Lord, servicemen and women, spiritual leaders, world leaders, and missionaries are some of those who should be on your list. Divide them up and pray for them on a revolving basis as well as all at once as circumstances dictate and time permits.
(4) When God convicts you for wrongdoing, immediately ask forgiveness and ask for strength to overcome the offense in the future. This is called "keeping a short sin list."
(5) Spend time praising God for who and what He is each day. The list of 365 names of God provided at the church's information desk in the main foyer is a good resource as is the entire book of Psalms. Focus on at least one of God's praiseworthy attributes throughout the day and take time to count your blessings and offer God thanks for those blessings on a regular basis.
(6) Think of folks you can invite to church, share your testimony with, and influence for Christ with the gospel. Reach out to others and be soul conscious, looking for opportunities to represent Christ to others.
(7) Strive to live your life this year so as to do something each day which will count for eternity and carry on beyond your life.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, Making The Most Of Your Money, and will be one of three sermons which will help you stretch your dollars and live better on what you have by teaching Biblical principles regarding money.
I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this last Saturday of 2008. During the last few days I have been in the full-time grandfather business. All of my children and grandchildren have been at our house for Christmas and I have enjoyed some quality time with the little ones including taking them all to a children's movie, a trip to the candy store, taking them all out to eat, and playing together. I cherish our time together and enjoy talking with them on a variety of subjects and seeing how their little minds process things. Art Linkletter was right when he observed, "Kids say the darnedest things." Most people who commit their lives to Christ do so as children and this ideal window of opportunity begins closing when they are teenagers. No wonder Christ commanded that we permit the little children to come unto Him and forbid them not because of such is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:14), and further added that unless we become converted and become as little children, we shall not enter the kingdom (Matthew 18:3). Every church and each family should make a priority of reaching children for Christ because that is the ideal time to reach them when they have most of their lives before them to serve the Lord. As we plan for the new year at Edgewood, we are redoubling our commitment to leave no child behind in our efforts to reach out with the gospel of Christ. I hope you will make it a priority in your home, neighborhood and community.
Tomorrow's sermon is about the defining moments in the life of Joshua. I hope to see you in church on this last Sunday of 2008.
Pastor Brown

Good morning on this the last Saturday before Christmas. I remember when I was a boy how much I longed for Christmas to get here and anticipated all of the activities associated with its celebration in our home only to be let down after it was over with the awareness of how long it would be before Christmas would come again. The food, fun, gifts, decorations, fellowship, and family traditions made for a great Christmas, but it all seemed to be over so soon. I loved going with my dad to choose a Christmas tree (it always had to be a near perfect tree and we looked until we found just the right one each year), then decorating it together. On Christmas eve we always went to my dad's family Christmas celebration at his folks house and on Christmas day we always went to my mom's family Christmas celebration. So we had two big celebrations, two big dinners, two big family get togethers with the aunts, uncles and cousins, and two openings of presents. The anticipation would build as we waited for my dad to get home from work early on Christmas eve and we would begin pestering him about the time to take off for grandma's house. We couldn't wait to get started and the 30 minute drive to grandmas seemed like an eternity. Now all of our family comes to our house for Christmas eve and most for all of Christmas day and WE are the grandmas and grandpas who host the celebration. Hopefully this process will continue from generation to generation for many years to come if Christ delays His coming. I am grateful that our family loves each other, cares about each other and enjoys being together. Now when the celebration ends, I find great joy in the thought that someday in Heaven, we'll all be together again with all the generations united never to part again. Now that will be some kind of a celebration! I'll look forward to introducing my grandchildren to my parents and grandparents whom they never had the pleasure of knowing. All of that is made possible because God sent His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, on that first Christmas two thousand years ago. That puts Christmas in a fresh perspective and makes the celebration of Christ's birth all the more special.
Tomorrow is our annual Christmas program which this year is entitled, A Christmas Offering. I'll look forward to seeing you there and don't miss our Christmas eve candlelight communion service at 6:00 pm on Wednesday evening.
Pastor Brown

Good morning on this Saturday, the 13th day of December. Tomorrow's message is entitled, Defining Moments and is taken from the Book of Esther. When going the process of preparing a message, I thought you might enjoy how a message is "birthed." It is important to begin by seeking God's leadership in providing the subject and Scripture for a certain theme, topic, or principle. Once that happens, the relevant Scripture verses need to be reviewed and studied. Frequently, I search every verse in the Bible on a given topic or concept using a concordance and topical index. This provides a thorough Biblical grasp of the subject matter. Then I like to analyze the select verses by studying the word meanings and grammar in their original languages to provide understanding and accuracy in the meaning of the texts. Next I read numerous commentaries to see what various Biblical scholars have to say about the verses (usually I use a dozen or so). I also read other preacher's sermons on the text or topic to see what they have to say (for instance, I read 10 full-length sermons in preparation for tomorrow's sermon). I frequently research current material in books or on the Internet regarding the various subjects and facts in the sermon. After correlating and reviewing all of the material gleaned for these preparations, I select the things I am going to use and develop the outline and content of the sermon, type it up, and send it to the tech team for preparation of the PowerPoint to be used on the screens. Then comes the search for illustrations to use in the sermon (especially an impact illustration which drives home the main emphasis and leaves a lasting impression and application of the sermon). Finally I consider if I will use any illustrative slides or videos in the presentation. When all of these steps are taken to prepare the mind, the final step is the spiritual preparation through prayer for the power, anointing, and blessing of God upon the message and me as I deliver it. I want God to be a vital part of the process from beginning to end and want to personally grow by building on my knowledge and wisdom with new knowledge, insight, understanding and application of truth. After the sermon is delivered is a time for personal reflection on its effectiveness and feedback from others about the impact of the message. God told Peter to feed the lambs and the sheep and no pastor should ever take that responsibility lightly. I hope to see you in church tomorrow to experience what God wants to say through the sermon to you.
Mel Brown

Good morning on this, the first Saturday of December. The Christmas frenzy has begun and is now in full force. We have finished Black Friday (the Friday after Thanksgiving so named because it is the day that many merchants reach their profit point and begin their profitable Christmas run) and Cyber Monday (the following Monday during which people return to work and order through their computers online those items they missed). Next will come the endless promotions, sales events, and advertisements to coax people to buy more. Also in the mix will be Christmas parties, gift exchanges, office celebrations and family get-togethers. For many folks it is the most hectic of seasons, yet is cherished for its warmth, fun, fellowship, and excitement. Although it is usually my most busy season, I confess it is certainly one of my most festive and enjoyable. I look forward to selecting the perfect gifts for members of my family, the coming together of all my children and grandchildren for several wonderful days, the Christmas eve candle-light communion service, Barb's buffet on Christmas eve and the delicious spread on Christmas day, opening our gifts together, and most of all celebrating the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. I hope that you will make your Christmas a Christ-filled, Christ-honoring Christmas. Here are some suggestions to help you do so. First, constantly keep before you that we are celebrating His birthday and treat the holiday season as a spiritual event with Christ present in its every aspect; second, make the Christmas eve service at church a vital part of your Christmas and bring every family member with you to help put Christ at the center of your Christmas; third, include a Christmas prayer before you begin opening your gifts to thank God for all of His blessings and especially thank Him for His greatest gift, the giving of His son, Jesus Christ for us; Fourth, remember those who are less fortunate and give generously to help those in need to provide food, clothing and help to those who have not. There will always be many who could use the helping hand. It is more blessed to give than to receive. To give to others in the name of Christ is literally giving to Christ Himself according to Scripture; Fifth, since we are celebrating Christ's birth, meditate on all we have, are and will be because Christ came as a man two thousand years ago and cultivate a genuine attitude of gratitude which will carry over throughout the year to come. He is the reason for the season, let's faithfully show it is so in our attitudes, words, and actions.
Tomorrow's sermon is Our Perception of the Future Shapes Our Present. Lord willing, I'll have the joy of seeing you there.
Pastor Brown