Good morning on this first Saturday of November. Tomorrow will mark my 43rd anniversary as pastor of the Edgewood Baptist Church. When I think of the changes which have taken place at Edgewood during those 43 years, I am amazed. A complete relocation, four building programs, multiple pastoral staff, more than 70 ministries, and technological advances allowing audio-visual additions to our ministry which have greatly enhanced our presentations beyond the days of flannel graph or an overhead projector are just a few. There is a popular article making the rounds which highlights the many changes which have taken place in our world in our more recent history. Most of the items focus on inventions and developments which have so greatly affected our lives such as radio, television, computers, airplanes, home appliances, electric lighting, etc. Indeed the changes are many and have radically affected the way we live. Imagine how different our lives would be without an automobile, telephone, television, appliances, and electricity. I, for one, would not want to go back to traveling by horseback, reading by kerosene lamps, washing clothes with a washboard and bar soap or preaching without a microphone. Most of these advances have made our lives better, easier and more enjoyable. But with all of these changes in our lives, God reminds us that some things ought never change - our faith and values should remain constant. The 10 Commandments are immutable as are all of the principles given in God's Word by which we are to live. And with all of the changes taking place around us, it is comforting to remember what is said about Jesus Christ, that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews  13:8). When it comes to our faith and church, methods may change, but our message must never change! Edgewood is nearly 106 years old and the church has seen many changes over its lifespan, but its preaching of the gospel message has not changed one iota.
It is as rock solid in its message as it was in 1901 and has so remained in my 43 years as pastor. May it remain so until Jesus comes is my prayer.
Tomorrow's message is another in the My God Is Real series. I hope you will be there.
Mel Brown