Church Family,
I wanted to take a few minutes to briefly share with you what we will be doing the next few weeks. We have posted a video on our website that covers these things in greater detail (www.fbcgo.com).
First, I want to remind you that God is Sovereign, in complete control, and nothing surprises Him. This entire event has not caught Him off guard. He is both Good and Faithful, and the Father often works in ways that are a mystery to us. We have been praying for revival, and who knows? Maybe this is how God begins that work?
Our staff have spent several hours over the past few days prayerfully seeking what would honor the Lord. We have also had many discussions with other pastors to determine what is the wisest course of action. Our struggle is balancing Romans 13:1-2 and Hebrews 10:25. We have been asked not to meet in groups larger than ten in an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus. As shepherds of this body, we want to honor that request because we love you and we want to protect you. Conversely, we know how important it is to meet together for encouragement in these days. So how do we do this?
We have decided not to host services at our building but to post a small service (songs and sermon) on our website for the next two Sundays, March 22 and 29 (no Wednesday night activities during this time). We are asking you to meet with one or two other couples or families and watch it together (if you feel safe doing so). If you do not have internet at home, contact our office for a DVD copy. When the video is over, you can ask the questions from the YouVersion App or make your own up to discuss. You can even enjoy a meal together if you would like. In Acts 2:42-47, this is exactly what the early church did. They met in small groups in homes for Bible Study, fellowship, and food. I also want to remind you that church is not a building but a people. You are the church, and we do not cease to exist because we do not meet at a building. Which leads me to a few other things.
Take advantage of this time. In Psalm 46, we read that we are to, "Be still, and know that I am God." The psalmist before that verse writes about a world that is chaotic; much like today. So make sure in this time you stop, listen, and be reminded God is in control. Since sports activities are not happening, spend extra time with your family playing games or talking. Maybe read a good book, spend some extra time in prayer, or read several books of the Bible. Dads, this is the time for you to step up and be the spiritual leader in your home you are called to be. When you watch the sermon with your family, you need to be the one to initiate and lead that. Here is a link to help you:
(https://founders.org/2017/02/07/some-methods-of-family-worship/).
I hope you will also find ways to minister to others. Many are scared and frightened during this time. My wife was out a few days ago, and the person behind the counter asked her if she was nervous about everything. In the midst of these times, we have the opportunity to speak the truth of the Gospel into other's lives. When you watch the sermon, invite some lost friends or neighbors to watch it with you. Invite your "One". If you are younger and feel comfortable, offer to run errands for someone elderly, or let us know at the church so we can connect you with someone. By the way, if you would like someone to run errands for you, please call our office. You could even offer childcare for working parents. The point is that we have some unique opportunities we need to take advantage of. Pray and listen for the Holy Spirit to guide you in this.
Finally, we still need you to tithe. The command to tithe is not tethered to meeting at a building. Whether we meet here at the building or in homes, we still have to pay bills, salaries, operational costs, etc. You can give online at our website, mail your tithe, or come here and place it in the box outside the office.
Continue to pray for our nation, our leaders, our church, revival, and opportunities to further the Gospel in this time.
In Christ,
Mark Smith, Pastor of FBC Jacksonville, AR
