CLOUGH FAMILY UPDATE

Santa Fe, NM

2012-02-15T16:21:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, my family and I had some meetings in New Mexico. We particularly enjoyed our meeting in Santa Fe, NM at Temple Baptist Church. Brother Jim Velazquez is the pastor. I had attended a preaching conference there about 10 years ago, when Brother Chiolero was still alive and pastoring there. So, it was great to have a chance to visit there once again. We had a great service, and a nice time of fellowship.

While we were in Santa Fe, we had a chance to drive around the town and see some of the neat buildings. Nearly every building in Santa Fe, including the houses, is done in a Spanish style and has a stucco exterior. It's like being somewhere in the middle of Mexico!

As of now, my family and I are in Texas. We have meetings booked out here until the end of April. Please keep us in your prayers!

Standing Room Only

2012-01-30T15:11:00.002-06:00

GANADO, AZ

Ganado Baptist Church

A couple of weeks ago, my family and I attended the Sunday services at a church on the Navajo Indian reservation in Ganado, AZ. I was able to present our ministry during the morning service, and preach in the evening service. My family and I had a great time!

We've been in many churches, and have seen many things. But what we saw in Ganado was truly remarkable. As with other churches in the Southwest, the people start trickling in about 5 minutes before the service is scheduled to start, and keep coming in several minutes after the services are supposed to begin. Ganado was no exception, only here the people kept coming, and kept coming, and kept coming... Pretty soon the pews were so full, that chairs had to be set up in the aisles. The children even have to meet in a separate room, because there is no space for them in the auditorium. After the Sunday morning preaching, the church had a baptismal service, so all of the kids came in. They had to sit on the floor up by the platform. I've never seen anything like it!

A lot of people won't go to a church if they think it's too crowded, or there is not enough room for them. In fact, if they can't have a whole pew to themselves, many folks complain. But these folks on the Reservation came to the house of God joyfully and, sitting elbow to elbow, they sang the hymns with enthusiasm, and soaked up the preaching of God's Word.

PAYSON, AZ

Payson First Baptist Church

This past Wednesday, we were able to present our ministry and preach at Payson First Baptist Church in Payson, AZ. Brother Anthony Garrissi is the pastor. We were able to stay the whole week with the pastor and his family, which was a great blessing. We really enjoyed the time of fellowship!

While we were there, Pastor Garrissi and his three boys took my son and I out to the Natural Bridge. We were able to do some hiking, and some climbing, and take lots of pictures. It was nice to be able to take my son out with me. He enjoyed running, and jumping, and climbing on everything without getting into trouble! ;)

Arizona Natural Bridge

Arizona - Grand Canyon

2012-01-19T18:37:00.001-06:00

For the past couple of weeks, my family and I have been in the great state of Arizona. We've already had the opportunity to present our ministry in a handful of churches, and we have a few more meetings scheduled before this month ends. One of the churches we attended was Sun and Shield Baptist Church in Marana, AZ. The church was putting on their annual missions conference, and we had the privilege of being a part of it. There were four missionaries present, including a family going to London, England. Each night, one of the missionaries presented their ministry, and another gave a testimony of their salvation and calling. The keynote speaker was a veteran missionary to Mexico. We really enjoyed meeting the other missionaries, and the people of the church. And, we especially enjoyed the fellowship and the meals!

Last week, we were able to go and see the Grand Canyon. It was about a two hour drive from the hotel we were staying in, so it was too good an opportunity to pass up! The weather was unbelievable, with the temperature in the mid 60s, and the views were spectacular! We were once again reminded of the creative power of our God (and perhaps the destructive power of the Flood)! Harry and I liked to get up close to the edge and look down into the canyon, but Tab liked to keep her distance.

It's hard to believe that it's January, let alone winter! The weather has been so nice, with temperatures in the 60's and low 70's in the southern part of the state. Even in the northern part of Arizona it's been nice, as well. Lord willing, we'll be in Arizona until the end of this month, before heading into New Mexico. Please keep us in your prayers!

West Coast

2012-01-09T20:07:00.001-06:00

This past Sunday, my family and I had the privilege of attending the services at West Coast Baptist Church in Vista, CA. Brother Phil Clark is the pastor. I met Brother Clark at a preaching conference in South Dakota, and it was a real blessing getting to see him again! I presented our ministry to Scotland during the Sunday school hour, and I preached for their evening service. All in all, it was a great day in the Lord's house! We praise the Lord, that He has faithful servants from coast to coast!

Today, we had the chance to get out and do a little sight-seeing. My wife had never seen the Pacific Ocean - a situation which we quickly rectified! We were able to go to the Oceanside Pier. There were several pelicans perched on the railings of the pier, and they let us get very close, before they scooted away. It was a warm, sunny day with a slight breeze. The perfect day to visit the pier! We've included some other pictures of the pier below. Enjoy!

From the Pulpit - "Thou Art the Man"

2012-01-02T16:38:00.004-06:00

Recently, the Lord led me to preach a message about David and Bathsheba, which I entitled "Thou Art the Man." I've included some highlights from the message below:

Thou Art the Man

Text: 2 Samuel 12:1-7a

Introduction: Examining this passage, we find that David heard Nathan's story, and it filled him with anger. Very quickly, he passed judgment on the man who had taken the lamb, condemning him to death, and demanding that he make a four-fold restitution, as the law required. At the peak of David's anger, Nathan drove the story home. He said, "David, Thou art the man! You are the one who is guilty, and deserving of judgment!"

Message: To see what David was guilty of, we have to turn over to 2 Samuel chapter 11.

First of All, Let's Look at the CRIME (2 Sam 11:1-5)

David and Bathsheba Committed Adultery
David and Bathsheba Were Both in the Wrong

David WAS NOT Where He Was Supposed to Be

During This Time, Kings Went Out to Battle, But David Stayed Home (2 Sam 11:1; 1 Chron 20:1)

Bathsheba Was Where She WAS NOT Supposed to Be

She Bathed Herself Openly, Where She Could Be Seen (2 Sam 12:2)

David Was Wrong for Lusting After Bathsheba

He SAW Her (2 Sam 11:2)
He DESIRED Her (2 Sam 11:2)
He ACTED on His DESIRES - Committing Adultery With Bathsheba

He Enquired After Her (2 Sam 11:3)
He Invited Her to His Palace (2 Sam 11:4)

This is the Pattern of Sin!

(Jas 1:13-15) "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: (14) But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. (15) Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."

Bathsheba Was Wrong for Consenting to David

She Came to David Willingly (2 Sam 11:4)

She Didn't Resist
She Wasn't Forced
Perhaps She Was Flattered that the King Would Desire Her?

Secondly, We See the CONSEQUENCES of the CRIME (2 Sam 11:5)

David and Bathsheba Thought that they Had Gotten Away With Their Sin

For Several Weeks, They Thought that No One Would Ever Know!
But Soon they Found Out that a Child Was Conceived

Note: It would have taken several weeks for Bathsheba to know that a child had been conceived.
Soon, Everyone Would Know that Bathsheba Had Committed Adultery Because Uriah Was Not Home
Soon, David Would Have Been Implicated

The Fact Is, Sin Always Has Consequences!

Thirdly, We See the COVER-UP (2 Sam 11:6-17)

David Called for Uriah

Uriah Had Been Out Fighting for Israel, While David Was At Home Seducing Uriah's Wife!

David Counseled Uriah to Go Home

David Thought that Uriah Would Go Home, and Spend the Night With His Wife
In that Event, David Thought that No One Would Ever Know About His Adultery With Uriah's Wife
But Uriah Would Not Consent

Uriah Was a Man of Honour
He Refused the Comforts of Home When His Comrades Were in the Field

David Conspired to Kill Uriah (2 Sam 11:14-17)

Though David Did Not Physically Kill Uriah, He Was Just as Guilty As if He Had Driven a Dagger Into Uriah's Heart!

At this point, David thinks that he has covered his bases, and that the world will never know about his sin! After Uriah's death, David took Bathsheba to be his wife. When the baby was born, everyone would now assume that the baby was conceived after he and Bathsheba were married. But, at the end of this chapter; after David and Bathsheba's crime; after they learned of the consequences of their crime; after David attempted to cover it up; the Bible says, "But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord!" (2 Sam 11:27) Though their crime was hidden from all the world, it wasn't hidden from God! No one else knew what had happened, but God knew! And God was displeased.

Fourthly, We See the CONFRONTATION (2 Sam 12:1-7)

Remember, David Already Heard Nathan's Story, and Had Passed Severe Judgment

The Law Required Four-Fold Restoration When a Lamb Was Taken
But David Prescribed Even Harsher Judgment, Calling for the Death of the Man Who Had Taken the Lamb

Now, Nathan Drives the Point Home

He Says, "David, Thou Art the Man!"

David Was the Man Who Had Taken Another Man's Sheep (Uriah's Wife)
But David Had Done Far Worse - He Had Killed a Man to Cover His Crime

Nathan Reveals David's Sin (2 Sam 12:7-9)

What David Thought Was Hidden, Nathan Revealed

Nathan Reveals God's Judgment

The Sword Would Never Depart from Israel During David's Reign (2 Sam 12:10-12)
The Son that Was Born Would Die (2Sam 12:14,15)

All this makes me wonder just how much time had elapsed from the time of their crime, to the time that Nathan confronted David? The child was already born (2 Sam 11:27; 12:14,15), so several months had already gone by (at least 9, if not more). David and Bathsheba thought that they had escaped detection, but "be sure your sin will find you out!" (Numbers 32:23)

Finally, We See the CONFESSION (2 Sam 12:13)

Finally David Has Acknowledged His Sin!

The Remarkable Thing Is How Long It Took David to Get Right With God!

On one hand, their sin found them out. They were not able to hide their sin, because God saw what they did, and it displeased Him. But on the other hand, we have David, a man after God's own heart, that, by this point, has gone several months without confessing his sin, and getting his heart right with God! For several months, he went through the motions of serving the Lord, not willing to have his relationship with God restored! If this can happen to David, a man after God's own heart, it can happen to us as well! How many weeks, and months, and years have we wasted because we refuse to confess our sin, and get our hearts right with God?

Though It Took Some Time, David's Confession Was Sincere

His Confession is Only Concisely Recorded in 2 Sam 12:13
But In Psalm 51, We Find David's Full, Heartfelt Confession

(Psa 51:1-4) (To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.) "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. (2) Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. (3) For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. (4) Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest."

We Also Find in Psalm 51 that David Desired to Be Cleansed of His Sin, and to Have His Relationship With God Restored

(Psa 51:10-12) "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. (11) Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. (12) Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit."

Conclusion: The most amazing thing in this story is the mercy, and forgiveness that God extended! (2 Sam 12:13) The law dictated that David and Bathsheba should die. David himself prescribed the death penalty. But God extended His mercy, forgiving David's sin. Praise the Lord, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness!" (I John 1:9)

If you're covering up your sin, you should know that your sin will find you out, and that there will be consequences. What we ought to do is confess our sins, that God may forgive us, and our relationship with the Lord might be restored. We all know the blessings and joy that come from a close relationship with the Lord. What a shame it would be to let weeks, and months, and even years go by, without getting our hearts right with God.

This message was preached by Missionary Don Clough at Mazon Baptist Church in Mazon, IL. Look for other editions of the from the pulpit series at www.cloughfamilyupdate.blogspot.com.

Christmas With the In-laws

2011-12-23T11:51:00.000-06:00

This past weekend, we had the privilege of presenting our ministry at Berean Baptist Church in Ogden, UT. Brother Dave Mallinak has been the pastor there for the past ten years. While we were there, the church was putting on their Christmas program, which included several choir specials, and small ensembles, as well as congregational singing. It was a very enjoyable service! During the service, I had the privilege of preaching a message about the Incarnation of Christ, which I entitled "Made in the Likeness of Men." The message was about four of the reasons why Christ took on humanity. I've included those reasons below:

I That He Might Die in Our Place (Hebrews 2:9)
II That He Might Destroy Satan and His Works (Hebrews 2:14)
III That He Might Deliver Us From the Bondage of Sin (Hebrews 2:15)
IV That He Might Demonstrate Compassion As Our High Priest (Hebrews 2:16-18)

On Monday, we drove over to Denver, CO where we boarded a plane bound for St. Louis, MO at a little after 9PM. Apparently, we left just in time, as Colorado was hit with a snow storm shortly after our departure. Praise the Lord! We landed in St. Louis a little after midnight, central time. But, we didn't make it to our hotel 'til after 1AM. Needless to say, the kids were pretty tired by then, but they did very well. Kathy had flown before. But this was Harry's first time on a plane, and he was pretty excited!

My father-in-law came and picked us up on Tuesday morning, and took us back to their house near Carbondale, IL. My father-in-law, Brother Ivan Plemmons, is the pastor at Philadelphia Independent Baptist Church in DuQuoin, IL. We'll be staying with my wife's side of the family for Christmas and New Years. So far, we've have a great time! The kids have really enjoyed spending time with their grandparents, and vice versa. Harry especially liked making cookies with my wife's mother.

My family and I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas!

Garden of the gods State Park

2011-12-14T20:10:00.000-06:00

We've kept very busy the past couple of weeks. That's a good thing when you're on deputation, and trying to raise support. It means that you have many opportunities to present your ministry. For us, it means that we have had every Sunday and Wednesday scheduled for several months. And, praise the Lord, those meetings were not unfuitful!

Gospel Way Baptist in Grand Junction

Until last week, we were in Colorado, and had the opportunity to present our ministry in twelve churches. One church has already taken us on, and three others have promised to do so shortly. Praise the Lord! We've really enjoyed the pastors, and the people of the churches that we've had the privilege of attending. Our prayer is that God would touch the hearts of some of the other churches that we've been with for our ministry to Scotland.

Garden of the Gods

We also had the opportunity to do a little sightseeing. We were able to visit Garden of the gods State Park near Colorado Springs, CO. It was a spectacular place! We think it ought to be called "The Garden of God" because it is an excellent example of His handiwork! We really enjoyed getting out, and stretching our legs, and seeing some of the beautiful things that the Lord has made. Plus, it was free. You can't beat that.

Enjoy the scenic pictures of Colorado below!

Garden of the gods

Monarch Pass

Royal Gorge Bridge

A Day In Thy Courts

2011-11-28T21:13:00.000-06:00

"For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." (Psalm 84:10)

Fellowship at Greydene Baptist

My family and I have had some wonderful times in God's house these past couple of weeks. Last Sunday, we presented our ministry at Penrose Baptist Church in Penrose, CO and at Greydene Baptist Church in Canon City, CO. We had a wonderful time of fellowship with both of those churches and their pastors. Penrose Baptist put on a Thanksgiving lunch while we were with them, and Greydene Baptist had a fellowship dinner that evening! As if we needed more food! We were also able to present our ministry at a church in Fountain, CO on Wednesday Night. A special thank you to those churches, and those pastors for allowing us to come and present our ministries. Thanks for going out of your way to make us feel welcome!

This past Sunday, we were able to present our ministry at Platteville Baptist Church in Platteville, CO. Brother Don Smith is the pastor. On Saturday night, Pastor Smith and his wife took us out to eat, and we had a great time of fellowship. I think the kids were getting tired of the two preachers talking, but they did very well!

Platteville Baptist Church

I've known Brother Smith for about 11 years, and we've seen each other in several preaching conferences over the years. But, this was the first time that my family and I have been able to go to his church. I must say that we had a wonderful time. We really enjoyed the fellowship with the people of the church, and I had tremendous liberty to preach the message that the Lord gave me. What a blessing!

After the morning service, we went out for lunch with the Smiths, and talked up a storm once again. When we were getting ready to go, Pastor Smith told me that the church would be taking us on for support. Praise the Lord!

That evening, we were able to visit with Brother Randy Mayer. He is a church-planter in Milliken, CO sent out by Platteville Baptist Church. I've known Brother Mayer almost as long as I've known Brother Smith. So, it was a really blessing getting to see him and his wife again.

What a blessing it is to be about the King's Business! And, what a blessing it has been to meet more and more of the King's Servants as we visit the King's Courts (His Churches!).

"I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord." (Psalm 122:1)

Our Latest Round of Meetings

2011-11-21T09:58:00.000-06:00

Our time in Colorado has been fruitful, to this point. Every Sunday and Wednesday has been scheduled, and many of the church have shown an interest in our ministry. A couple of weeks ago, we had the opportunity to present our ministry at Old Paths Baptist Church in Salida, CO. Brother Mike Thornsley is the pastor. After the service, the church voted to take us on for support. What a blessing! I wasn't expecting it, because the church is only six months old, and the pastor is still receiving support himself. But, praise the Lord!

My wife's family had been friends with Brother Thornsleys family for a number of years. Both of their dads were missionaries in Germany, and frequently visited each other on the field.

Starting that Sunday Night, we attended a missions conference in Wheat Ridge, CO at Ridgeview Baptist Church. Brother Jud Riley is the pastor. There were two missionary families that were scheduled to be in the conference. One of them being our family, and the other missionaries to Australia. Each night, we would present our ministry to a small group of church members, then one of us would preach. Brother Thornsley from Salida, CO (pictured on the right) dropped in on Sunday Night, and preached the first message. My turn came on Tuesday, and I preached a message called "Pray For Us" dealing with how we should pray for missionaries. To this point, we've been in 15 missions conferences, and I've never heard anyone preach a message on that topic.

Prayer Support is absolutely vital to the ministry! Many think because they've given to missions, that their duty is fulfilled. But, may I say, that we all have an obligation to pray for those who carry the light of the gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth. The Apostle Paul, no doubt the greatest missionary of all time, said this: "Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:" (2 Thess 3:1) You and I can be partners with our missionaries, simply by bringing them to the throne of grace!

Of Missions Conferences, Mountains, and More!

2011-11-12T16:40:00.002-06:00

The last couple of weeks have been very busy for us! Let me start at the beginning...

Two weeks ago, we had the privilege of attending the missions conference hosted by Pastor Tom Corkish at Anchor Baptist Church in Salt Lake City, UT. The theme for the missions conference was "The Seed is the Word." The whole church was decorated with farming equipment, and all everyone was dressed like farmers - including the missionaries! I've been so used to preaching in a suit, that it felt kinda funny preaching in overalls! But, in the end, we had a very good time. If you can't have fun in the house of God, where can you have fun?

Anchor Baptist Church in UT

Salt Lake City is a very beautiful part of our country. The views of the mountains were just magnificent. You could almost forget that there are over 1 million people living in that area, most of whom are duped by the false teachings of Mormonism. Our trip to Salt Lake just served to remind us of how many mission fields there are right here in America! Praise the Lord for men like Brother Corkish and others who are willing to take the gospel to places like Salt Lake City.

After the conference in Salt Lake City, we packed up our things and headed toward Colorado Springs, CO. Our route took us back through part of Wyoming, and into a blizzard. At one point, we were stuck in traffic for about an hour. It seems that an RV and small car had gotten into an accident. Thanks to the prayers of our parents and people at our sending church, we were soon able to get under way again.

While in Colorado Springs, we were able to attend a missions conference hosted by Brother Allen Payne, Pastor of First Baptist Church of Peaceful Valley. There were four missionaries present, including a family from Wales, UK (on the left) that were going back to the UK to plant Baptist Churches.

First Baptist Church in CO

Each night, one of the missionaries gave a testimony, one presented his ministry, and one preached.

Aside from the things I've mentioned above, I also went on visitation, preached at the nursing home, and taught in the children's church. Needless to say, we kept very busy. Praise the Lord for the opportunities to serve!

For the rest of this month, and the first couple of weeks of December, we'll be in Colorado. Please pray for us, that the Lord would continue bringing in our support, and using us to His honor and glory!

(Enjoy the scenic pictures below!)


Salt Lake City

On the way to Colorado

Salt Lake City

Colorado

Camping Out

2011-10-27T17:01:00.000-05:00

Our westward trek has been full of new and exciting experiences. While in Montana, we were able to spend some time in a log cabin (see the post entitled: "A Cabin in the Woods"). Now that we're in Wyoming, we're camping out!

Now, it's not anywhere near as rustic as it sounds! In fact, we're staying in a very nice camper courtesy of Brother Les Potter and his family. (Brother Potter pastors Glenrock Baptist Church in Wyoming.) The camper has heating, air conditioning, kitchen sink and stove, a refrigerator, a rest room, a master bedroom, and bunk beds for the kids. Not much like camping at all, when you think about it! But, it's the only kind of camping I would want to do when the temperature drops into the 30's at night. We'll be attending a bonfire and cookout tonight. That will feel like real camping!

Next week will be very busy for us. We have two missions conferences that we'll be attending from Sunday, October 30th through Sunday, November 6th. Please keep us in your prayers!

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A Cabin in the Woods

2011-10-18T14:52:00.000-05:00

So far, our time in Montana has been very enjoyable. We're surrounded on every side by mountains, rivers and streams. Being in a place like this, really makes you stop and consider the awesome ability of our Creator. The Bible tells us that: "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." (Psalm 19:1)

During our first full week in Montana, we were able to spend some time at a Cabin with my Brother-in-law Tim Plemmons and his family. It was a very nice place. There was plenty of room for all of us to spread out and enjoy one another's company. There were two big bedrooms, and two living room areas. And the wood stove made the evenings warm and cozy.

The cabin was in a pretty remote area, at the base of the mountains, and hidden by massive trees. Winding around the property, was a small stream that branched off in several different directions. And every day, we saw several deer very near the cabin. If we approached the deer slowly and quietly, we could get very near them before they would run away.
While we were at the cabin, we were able to spend much time in prayer and in Bible reading. Instead of treating this time as a vacation, we chose to use it as a retreat. Everyday, we read devotional books, had Bible studies together, and spent time talking about various Bible doctrines. It was a very refreshing time, both physically and spiritually!

Home on the Range!

2011-10-08T09:50:00.000-05:00

We haven't posted anything for a few weeks on here, because we didn't have much going on! However, things have picked up for us, and we should be busy for the next several months. Praise the Lord for a full schedule. It keeps us out of trouble! ;)

Last week, we attended the Preaching Conference that Empire Baptist Temple (EBT) in Sioux Falls, SD hosts every year. The special music was uplifting, and the preaching was very encouraging. We were able to see many preachers that we have known for many years.

We were also able to spend time with family while we were in Sioux Falls. My sister and her family are members of EBT. While we were at the conference, we were able to stay in their home, which was a great blessing! We were also able visit with my brother-in-law Tim Plemmons and his family. Tim is a chaplain with the Civil Air Patrol.

After the conference, we followed Tim and his family out to their home in MT. From Sioux Falls to their home in Montana is almost 1,100 miles. So, we did a lot of driving! But we were able to see a lot of neat things along the way including Mount Rushmore (shown on the left) near Rapid City, SD, and several mountain ranges along the way. It was a long trip, but the stunning scenery kept us occupied. What a wonderful Creator God we serve!

Go West Young Man

2011-09-16T12:30:00.000-05:00

On our first full year of deputation, we spent most of our time in the Midwest. In fact, the majority of our supporting churches have come from Midwestern states such as Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, etc... We also spent some time in the Northeast portion of the states, where we have a handful of supporters.

For our next full year of deputation, the Lord has led us to head West. At this point, we have meetings scheduled in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and California. Lord willing, we'd like to set up some meetings in Arizona and New Mexico as well. Please pray that God would continue to open doors and hearts in the Western United States for our ministry to Scotland. Most of all, we desire to be a blessing, and a help wherever we go.

It's been a great blessing to watch God's hand - especially when it comes to setting up meetings. We were scheduled to be with one church from a Sunday through Wednesday, but the pastor cancelled the meeting. That same day, the Lord allowed me to fill both of those dates! Praise the Lord!

Come Apart and Rest

2011-09-03T10:20:00.004-05:00

The Lord Jesus Christ said, "Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat." (Mark 6:31) As a ministry student, I had no concept of the real demands of the ministry. To teach, and preach was very easy, but now I find the ministry to be much more than that. Even as a missionary on deputation, without a congregation of my own, I feel the ever increasing weight of the ministry. Whenever I am called upon to preach, I know that there are people, both saved and lost, who are depending upon me to give them something from God's word. To me, it's not enough to preach a Bible message. I must have God's message! And sometimes, in order to get God's message, there is a great deal of struggle, and spiritual battles that must take place. I know when we are in Scotland, and have a congregation of our own, that the demands of the ministry will take on an even more complex aspect. For, as the shepherd, I will be in the position of watching for the souls of the people the Lord gives me (Hebrews 13:17).

I have found that such a burden of responsibility often leaves me tired and drained. My family and I were on the road for six months straight, without a break, and we really began to feel tired! And so, we've taken a break. We're staying at my parent's house for a couple of weeks for some much needed R&R.

There reaches a point in which a man is too tired, and too stressed, and too weary to be of much help to anybody else. In my experience, I've met some pastors who never have taken time to get away with just their families, or just their wives. Some of them were on the edge of bitterness. Others had become very cynical in their approach to the ministry and their people. I really believe that men in the ministry of pastoring, and evangelism (missionaries) need to come apart and rest, before they come apart in pieces!

There's Something Fishy Going On Around Here...

2011-08-25T14:41:00.000-05:00

Last week, my family and I were able to attend a Preaching Conference at Victory Baptist Church in Alsip, IL. Brother French is the pastor there. Last year, we began full-time deputation at this same church, so it was nice to get back, and visit there once again. The conference itself was a great blessing. We were able to see some old friends, including the Cashner family (pictured on the right), whom we plan to work with in Scotland. Our pastor, Brother Curtis Martin, also attended the conference. On Wednesday morning, I had the privilege of preaching, which was a great blessing! I was a little nervous, preaching to other preachers, many of whom have been in the ministry longer than I've been alive! But, the Lord was with me, and He helped me.

After the conference, we headed up to Marshall, WI where we presented our ministry at Marshall Baptist Church. Brother Tom Rose is the pastor. The church took us on for support before we ever came through. So, it was a great opportunity to visit, and fellowship with one of our faithful supporters! We also presented our ministry at Faith Baptist Church in Moline, IL and Lighthouse Baptist Church in Elgin, IL. We had good services at both of those churches, and greatly enjoyed meeting their people. We're praying that God's will would be done, concerning support.

On Tuesday, my family and I were able to go to Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, IL. We had planned on going to the zoo, but the forecast called for heavy rain, so we decided on the aquarium instead. In the end, it was a good choice! Harry and Kathy really enjoyed it, and as their parents, Tabitha and I have to admit that we enjoyed it too. One of the tanks (pictured on the right) had huge fish that were almost as big as Harry! That was my favorite exhibit. Tabitha really liked the different colored frogs, though I don't think she would have touched any of them!

I just noticed that my last two posts have been about fish! My previous post (Gone Fishing) was about a fishing trip I took with my father-in-law, and my nephew. There's something fishy going on around here!

Don

Gone Fishing

2011-08-15T23:07:00.007-05:00

Last week, my family and I were able to spend some time with my wife's parents in Elkville, IL. My father-in-law is the pastor of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Du Quoin, IL. We were able to present our ministry in that church, as well as another church that was in the area.

Toward the end of the week, my nephew Ashton, my father-in-law and I went fishing. This was the first time that I had been fishing in over 12 years. When I was a teenager, we lived across from a river, and we used to go fishing all of the time. When I got older, we moved into a city and just never really found time to go fishing. So, it was a real treat to sit out on the dock, spend some time with the guys, and even catch some fish!

As we were fishing, I couldn't help but think of the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, when He said: "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) There are many parallels between fishing, and witnessing. Here are just a few that I thought of:

1) A Fisherman is Patient
Just as a fisherman must be patient if he is to catch any fish, as soul-winners, we must also be patient. A fisherman can't make the fish bite. All he can do is bait his hook, and put his line in the water. The same is true when we witness. We can't make anyone accept Christ. All we can do is testify of His saving power!

2) A Fisherman Varies His Approach
Also, good fishermen know that they must approach different fish in different ways. Not all types of bait work for all fish. Not all types of hooks work for all types of fish. Sometimes a fisherman even has to use different types of lines, and poles, etc... And when it comes to witnessing, we ought to know that we can't use a "one-size-fits-all" approach! Everyone is different, and must be reached at their level.

I hope everyone gets to do a little bit of fishing for men this week!

HEARERS, DOERS & TEACHERS

2011-08-02T13:26:00.001-05:00

This last week has been relatively uneventful. Especially if we compare it to previous weeks. We haven't gone to any historical sites, or any major cities. In fact, we've been staying in a little town on the Eastern side of Kentucky all this week. Not much going on, but that's okay! It's a nice break from all of the hustle and bustle of the East Coast. We really enjoyed all of the sites, but it's been nice to slow down for a little bit, and unwind.

We had a great service on Sunday night. I was able to present the ministry and preach at a Baptist Church in Danville, KY. The Lord led me to preach a message on spiritual growth. Then, I found out that the pastor had just finished preaching an 8 week series on spiritual growth! Praise the Lord! The pastor said that the message the Lord gave me was a good way to cap off the series. It's good when God is in control!

For the message, I had two text portions: James 1:22-25, and Hebrews 5:12-14. The main thought was this: We need to move from being HEARERS of the Word, to being DOERS of the Word. And then, we need to move from being DOERS of the Word, to being TEACHERS of the Word. The truth is, our spiritual life hinges around preaching. We can't get saved with HEARING the gospel, and we won't grow spiritually without HEARING the preaching of the Word. But the Word of God tells us that we should not be HEARERS ONLY, but that we should HEAR and DO what the Word of God commands (James 1:22-25). And not only that, we ought to reach a point in our Christian life in which we are able to TEACH others what we have HEARD and DONE (Hebrews 5:12-14)! In other words, we need to grow spiritually so that we can be used of the Lord in the work of the ministry.

This next Sunday, we'll be heading into Illinois, where we have meetings until the end of the month. Please keep us in your prayers!

The Statue of Liberty

2011-07-21T20:30:00.004-05:00

Today, my family and I drove out to Liberty State Park near Jersey City, NJ. From the park, we were able to see the Statue of Liberty (pictured on the right), as well as Ellis Island. Both the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island were beacons of hope to those who wished to enter this country. From 1892 to 1943, 17 million people immigrated to the United States of America through Ellis Island (legally!).

Harry and Kathy had a good time, as well. Harry has been wanting to see the Statue of Liberty for a while. He has a Patch the Pirate CD called "The Great American Time Machine" in which the Statue of Liberty acts as a tour guide through American history. (I didn't come up with the idea - I'm just telling you about it!) He especially enjoyed getting his picture taken with a miniature Statue of Liberty (on the left) in the Liberty State Park Diner. He kept asking us, "Is that man holding a flashlight?" You can't make this stuff up!

All in all, our East Coast trip has been a great blessing! We've enjoyed presenting our ministry in churches in New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. And, we've enjoyed the New York style pizza - thanks again Brother Fryman, and Brother Morrison! But, all good things must come to an end. We have one more meeting in Maryland this Sunday (July 24th), then we head back toward the Midwest. May the Lord bless His faithful servants in the Northeast!

New York City - Washington DC

2011-07-14T07:43:00.017-05:00

This past week and a half has been a whirlwind for us. Last week, we were with Brother Paul Morrison, Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Fishkill, NY. We kept busy while with the Morrisons, enjoying some of the local cuisine, and seeing some of the sights. On the fourth of July, we were able to go to West Point to watch the fireworks. It was an incredible experience! (see blog posting entitled "Happy Fourth of July!") And, on Friday July 8th, Pastor Morrison and I went in to New York City, where we handed out some gospel tracts, and visited many of the sights. We were able to see Grand Central Station (pictured on the right), Rockefeller Center, Times Square, the Steinway Building (piano builders), Central Park, and some historic churches, including Calvary Baptist Church that has been around since the mid 1800's. After five hours of walking around the city, I was worn out! But, I really enjoyed my time in the city.

This past week, we had the privilege to be a part of the missions conference put on by Odenton Baptist Church in Odenton, MD. Brother George Shafer is the Pastor. There were two other missionary families at the conference, including Brother Garry Castner and his family, whom our sending church has supported for a number of years. They serve in Chile. Brother Dave Olson, missionary to Zambia, and his family were also in attendance. The preaching was a great blessing, and the fellowship was outstanding. The church really went above and beyond the call of duty, taking us on several outings, including a trip to Washington DC, and to Fort McHenry, where the "Star Spangled Banner" was penned by Francis Scott Key.

While in Washington DC, my wife went with the ladies and visited the Smithsonian, and I went with the men and toured many of the monuments. We saw the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II and Korean Memorials, and Arlington National Cemetery, where we were able to watch the ceremonial changing of the guard. This East Coast trip has been sort of a dream come true. We've been able to see the birthplace of our nation at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, visit West Point, a key fortress in the Revolutionary War, and now top it all off by seeing our nation's capital. (The White House is pictured on the right.) Even though we're called to Scotland, we still love our country, we still honor the sacrifices of of Americans who have fought to preserve our freedoms, and we still praise God Who has preserved us a nation! All in all, we're grateful to be Americans!

Enjoy the pictures below!

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-05T14:23:00.008-05:00

Yesterday, our nation celebrated it's 235th birthday. On July 4th, 1776, 56 men pledged their life, liberty and property in order to defend the United States of America. By signing their names to the Declaration of Independence, those 56 men voluntarily made themselves the enemies of the British Empire. The die was cast. There was no going back. It makes me wonder whether or not that kind of Patriotism and Character of Convictions exists today. May it be found in us!

My family and I have had the privilege of traveling all around this country for the last ten months. Recently, we've been able to visit several historic sites related the birthplace of our nation. The timing couldn't have been better. Just a few days ago, I wrote about our trip to Indepence Hall where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed into law. (see blog posting entitled: "Independence Hall") It was a real blessing to us that we were able to follow up that trip to Independence Hall by visiting the United States Military Academy at West Point in New York State on the Fourth of July. We were able to listen to the Military Band play several Patriotic songs, and watch a tremendous fireworks display. The whole experience was incredible, knowing that General Washington himself once held his was headquarters in the area for over 16 months during the Revolutionary War - the longest he held them anyplace. And, in knowing that West Point was a key fortress, keeping the British ships out of the harbor. Add to that breath-taking views (see more pictures below), and beautiful weather, and the day couldn't have been any better!

A special thank you to Brother Paul Morrison, Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Fishkill, NY, and his family for bringing us along with them on a very memorable trip to West Point!

Independence Hall

2011-07-03T22:18:00.007-05:00

Last week, my family and I were in Pennsylvania, where we presented our ministry in two churches: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church in Emmaus, and Haven Baptist Church in Schuylkill Haven. We really enjoyed meeting the people at both of those churches, and fellowshipping with the pastors and their families. Brother Roland Hammett and his family, from LVBC in Emmaus, introduced us to a local favorite - Philly Cheesesteaks. Good stuff! Brother Gable and his family, from HBC in Schuylkill Haven, treated us to several different flavors of ice cream. They got no complaints from us!

While in Pennsylvania, were able to visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which is considered to be the birthplace of our nation. Both the Declaration of Independence, and the US Constitution were created and signed into law at Independence Hall. It's a great place to visit. Just a few blocks down, is a building that houses the Liberty Bell, which we were also able to see. It would great for all of us to know a little more about our nations history, and our founder's reliance on the Providence of God! How far we have come, as a nation, from trusting in the Lord.

Prior to deputation, the furthest east I had ever been was Chicago, IL. Now our travels have taken us all the way out to the East Coast. The houses are much closer together out here than I had imagined possible. And people drive incredibly fast! Many of the motorists drive at 20 miles over the speed limit, and greater. We didn't quite understand why they drove so fast, until we experienced some traffic jams around New York City. It takes forever to get anywhere out here. There was a stretch of about 15 miles that took us an hour to drive. If you ever come out this way, be sure to bring some cash with you. There are a couple of bridges that have tolls, and they don't take credit cards, or checks. We found that out the hard way!

First Day of Summer!

2011-06-21T16:14:00.009-05:00

Last week, we were able to attend a preaching conference at Van Born Baptist Church in Dearborn Heights, MI. (The host pastor was Brother Greg Albright.) The fellowship was a great blessing! We were able to see our Pastor and his wife, as well as other pastors and missionaries that I have known for years. We were also able to acquaint ourselves with some others that we hadn't met before - including some that we have meetings with next month. The messages that we heard at the conference were also a tremendous blessing, and help to us. A lot of the messages dealt with how we ought to handle the trials and tests that are a part of the ministry. The Lord really spoke to my heart through many of the messages. And, it should be said that the special music was truly special! All in all, it was a great blessing to be a part of the conference!

From Michigan, we loaded up the van and headed over to Pittsburgh, PA. Next week, we'll be heading over to the eastern side of Pennsylvania for a couple of meetings. We'll be with Pastor Roland Hammett at Lehigh Valley Baptist Church in Emmaus, and Pastor Rod Gable at Haven Baptist Church in Schuylkill Haven. We're looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us as we present our ministry in those churches. Please pray that the Lord's will be done!

This afternoon, we were able to spend some time at the Pittsburgh Zoo. When we left the hotel room, the temperature was in the low 70's, and it was slightly overcast. But, the temperature quickly rose to about 90 degrees by the early afternoon. Thankfully, the zoo had a lot of shaded areas, and indoor exhibits, so we didn't get too warm. Both of our kids really enjoyed themselves - as did their parents! It was a real temptation to leave Harry at the monkey exhibit. After all, he would have fit right in! ;)

Hope all of you fathers had a Happy Father's day! And we hope that everyone has a Happy "First Day of Summer!"

- Don

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

2011-06-08T08:11:00.005-05:00

This past Monday, my family and I were able to attend a Cincinnati Reds game against the Chicago Cubs. It was a fantastic evening. The weather was nice, with the temperature in the low 80's, and there was a slight breeze.

The game started at 7:10PM Eastern Time. We arrived at the ballpark about a half hour before the game. The kids were able to watch the mascots pedal around the ball field, which they really enjoyed. Once the game started, we weren't sure how long our kids would stay interested, but we didn't have anything to worry about on that front!

Harry really enjoyed being at the ballpark. He kept looking for the "baseball head man" (the mascot), and talking to the lady next to us. After the game, he said that we should go to a baseball game again sometime! Kathy did really well also, which made our time very enjoyable.

We decided to play it safe and root for the Reds since we were in their stadium. It was a good choice. The Reds ended up winning the game 8-2, with home runs by Stubbs, and Gomes. The Reds pitcher Leake pitched into the 8th inning, only giving up two runs. He also did well at the plate, driving in a run.

All in all, it was a great experience, and a good family outing!

May 2011 Prayer Letter

2011-06-02T09:00:00.003-05:00

Dear Prayer Partners,

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price:therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” More, and more, I am struck by the fact that everything I am, and everything that I have belongs to the Lord. I’ve been bought with a price—the precious blood of the Lord Jesus Christ! Because of that, I am under obligation to bring honor and glory to my Saviour in everything that I do. We’ve tried to keep these thoughts in the forefront of our minds as we’ve traveled around this country presenting our ministry.

We spent most of the month of May in Kentucky, where we presented our ministry in eight different churches. A special thank you to all of the churches in Kentucky that allowed us to come and present our ministry. It was a real blessing getting to meet each and every one of you! For the last week of May, and into the first half of June, all of our meetings are in Ohio. Please pray that the Lord would use my preaching to meet the spiritual needs of His churches, and that the Lord would use His churches to meet our needs.

We’re pleased to report that our promised support level has increased to 33%! Some of the churches that have taken us on this month were churches that we presented our ministry in several months ago. One of the churches promised to take us on right after the service. And another church took us on for support, and we haven’t even been there yet. It’s been a blessing to watch the Lord work, and we look forward to what He’ll do in the months ahead! Please keep the prayers coming!

Unto Him Be Glory,

Brother Don Clough, Missionary to Scotland

A Little Taste of Scotland

2011-05-23T18:57:00.005-05:00

Our time in Kentucky was very enjoyable, for the most part. There was a lot of rain, and a lot of flooding in some areas toward the beginning of the month. But, the last couple of weeks that we were in Kentucky were relatively dry, and sunny. The weather was so nice, that we were able to take Harry to the park a couple of times where he was able to burn off some energy. That's a win-win for both him and us: he likes going to the park, and we like it when he's good and tired at bed time!

All good things must come to an end, however. Today we packed up and headed into Ohio. On the way to Ohio, we were able to stop at the "Scotland Yard Store" in Shelbyville, KY. The store had several Scottish clothing items, and even some Scottish food. I was able to purchase one of my favorite Scottish soft drinks - Irn Bru.
It was good to get a little taste of Scotland today!

In the last two weeks, our promised support has increased from 30.5% to 32.33%. Empire Baptist Temple, of Sioux Falls, SD and Tabernacle Baptist Church of Lubbock, TX are the latest churches to take us on for support. A special "thank you" to those churches.

Keeping Ourselves Busy

2011-05-07T08:51:00.008-05:00

In the last five weeks, my family and I have been a part of five missions conferences ranging from Springfield, Mo to Benton, Ky. And, there have been some other appointments in between those meetings. In that time, we've seen our promised support increase from 27% to 30.5%. So, it's been a busy time, but also a productive time.

At this last missions conference in Benton, Ky, we were able to spend some time with my wife's parents. My father-in-law pastors a Baptist Church in DuQuoin, IL, which is roughly two hours from Benton, Ky. So, they were able to come over a spend a day with us in Benton. Since we've been fairly close to DuQuoin, we've been able to stop by a visit their home a couple of times in the last couple of weeks. We don't know how much they've enjoyed it, but we've had a good time! ;)

We're currently staying in a missions apartment in Cadiz, Ky. We'll be in this area for most of the month of May, Lord willing. Then, we'll be heading into Ohio. Please pray for God's continued blessings upon our deputation, and that we might get to the field in His time.

This area, Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky, has experienced a lot of flooding. The last couple of days have been nice and sunny. But there was a two week stretch in which it rained nearly every day, and almost all day. There are some golf courses out here that are under water. All that you can see is the top of the flags on the greens! Kind of hard to avoid the water hazard in these conditions! ;)

The Last Couple of Weeks

2011-04-12T19:58:00.007-05:00

My family and I just completed a missions conference in Columbia, MO. We had a great time at the conference. We were able to see some old friends, and meet some new missionaries. It was a real joy meeting the church people, and seeing their desire to serve the Lord. The special music was top-knotch, and spirit-filled. Immediately following the last service, the church voted to take us on for support. What a blessing!

In the last two weeks, three churches have taken us on. Right now, support is just rolling in for us. We know that the Lord is doing it, and not us. All glory belongs to Him. As of now, our pledged support stands at 27%. Just two weeks ago, it was at 21%. It's great to see the Lord working in our lives, and using us in His service!

It hasn't been all work and no play. We've also taken some time for a little recreation when it's been possible. Today, we went to the Dickerson Park Zoo in Springfield, MO with another missionary family. It was a nice, warm, sunny day. Harry really enjoyed seeing the animals, and riding on the train that circles part of the zoo. We believe that putting our family first includes spending quality time together and enjoying one another's company. Deputation can be a hard task when families don't take time for a little recreation. We want to keep our deputation as positive an experience as possible, always remembering that the Lord is the center of all we do.

Don

Eastward Trek

2011-03-26T10:03:00.006-05:00

Today we begin the first leg of our eastward trek. We have meetings in Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New York. We're currently booked through July 19th. Once we get to New York, we'd like to head down the east coast into the Virginias and the Carolinas, Lord willing. We have a couple of prospects in those areas that sound interested in having us in. Pray that the Lord's will would be done.

We're praying that the Lord would allow us to have meetings through the end of September. If that works out, then we can go home for a couple of weeks before we start going west. Our desire is to be in the churches that the Lord wants us to be in.

We're currently at 21% in our support, with a couple of other churches that may be taking us on anytime now. We're praying that the Lord would have us around 50% by this fall. That would put us on pace to finish our deputation in just two years. His will be done!

Oh, and Happy Birthday to Kathy! She turned one year old today!

Survey Trip 2

2011-03-10T07:11:00.009-06:00

My wife and both had a great time on our second survey trip! On this trip, we spent the bulk of our time in and around Elgin, where we feel that the Lord has led us to begin our ministry in Scotland. When we left Elgin, my wife and I both felt that we were leaving home, rather than going home! That doesn't take anything away from our love of our own country, or our sending church. It just means that we love the place and the people that God has called us to.

Elgin (pictured on the right) is situated in Moray county, which has a population of around 100,000. We are not aware of any like-faith Baptist churches in the whole county. So, we would like to center our ministry in Elgin, with the intention of reaching that area with the gospel, and planting indigenous churches. While we were on our survey trip, we were also able to tour other cities in Moray county.

We were also able to visit several sites including: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, the Battlefield of Culloden, Fort George, Fyvie Castle, Dunnottar Castle, etc... But out of all the sites, and old buildings, what thrilled Tab the most was seeing a Highland Cow! You can't make this stuff up.

Keepin' You Posted

2011-02-13T15:07:00.004-06:00

In all things, the Lord has been so good to us! At the end of January, we picked up a supporting church. And just last weekend, a church from Louisiana pledged to support us as well. That puts our pledged support at 16%. God be praised. Please pray that the Lord will continue to bring in the support we need in His time.

As I'm writing this update, we're in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Starting tomorrow, we'll be slowly making our way back to Rochester, MN. Lord willing, we'll work our way through Oklahoma, Kansas, and Iowa this next week on our way back home. We have a couple of churches that we'll be dropping in on to bridge the gap between here and Minnesota.

My wife and I are really looking forward to our second survey trip to Scotland. (I went alone the first time due to the birth of our second child.) Tabitha spent 14 years in Germany where her dad served as a missionary. So she's familiar with church planting and foreign fields. But, it will be good for her to spend a little time in Scotland, to get a feel for the country, and an increased burden for the Scottish people. We'll be flying out on March 1st and returning March 8th. Please pray that everything will go well, and that we'll be safe.

We can't wait to get to the field. But while we're here, and while we're traveling to various churches all across this country, we want to do our utmost to bring honor and glory to our Lord, and be a blessing wherever we go. Lord bless you and yours!

Don

Arkansas

2011-01-29T19:16:00.004-06:00

Over the last couple of weeks, we've been in Arkansas presenting our ministry. When we first arrived in Arkansas, the temps were in the 30's and there was a little snow on the ground. The last couple of days have been very nice! It's been in the mid 60's and sunny out. We were able to take Harry out to some parks, and let him burn off some energy. That's always a good thing.

This past Sunday night, we picked up another supporting church. Right after the service, the pastor said that he felt the Lord leading the church to take us on for support. Praise the Lord! The church voted to take us on right then and there. A man in the church approached me afterward and told me that he had been in the church for 35 years, and had never seen the pastor take on a missionary right after the service. What a blessing! This new support will put us at 15%. Still have a ways to go! Don't stop praying for us.

The original settlers in Arkansas were from Scotland. They said that it reminded them of home. Much of Arkansas is very beautiful - especially the Ozarks! The whole area is heavily wooded, and filled with rolling hills, and valleys. It's such a blessing to see the beautiful things our Lord created!

Don

What Have We Been Up To?

2011-01-17T11:54:00.002-06:00

My family and I had a great Christmas and New Year visiting with my family and my wife's family. But it was great to get back out on the road, and get busy in our service for the Lord. We presented our ministry in a church in Missouri, and one in Oklahoma. We're currently in Arkansas right now, staying with our good friends the Bakers. We'll be out here until the second week of February. Keep us in your prayers!

A couple of days ago, I received an email from the pastor of the church we visited in Missouri. It turns out that they'll be taking us on for support. God be praised! That puts our pledged support at 14.3%. Again, there are a couple of other churches that have talked about taking us on. Once we find out what amount per month, we'll add that to our pledged support total.

December 2010 Prayer Letter

2011-01-05T11:56:00.004-06:00

Dear Prayer Partners,

It’s hard to believe that 2011 is already upon us. This year has gone by so quickly! But you know what they say: “Time flies when you’re having fun!” We’ve now been on full-time deputation for over four months. We’ve been in eight states, driven over 15,000 miles, and presented our ministry in nearly 40 churches. In all of our travels, I must say that God is good! He has taken excellent care of us, and has met our every need. All praise, honor, and glory belongs to Him!

The Lord has blessed us tremendously this last month. Six churches have pledged to take us on for support in December alone. Our pledged support level rose from 7.5% at the beginning of the month to 13.3% by the end of December. What a blessing! In addition, there are two other churches who have pledged to take us on but haven’t told us what amount they’ll be supporting us at. Once we know the amount per month from those churches, that will raise our pledged support even higher. We should be over 15% anytime now. God has been good!

A SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST

As I mentioned last month, my wife and I will be taking another survey trip to Scotland March 1st—8th. (I went alone the first time due to the birth of our second child.) We’ll also be taking our daughter Kathy. We still need the Lord to bring in about $1,500 to cover the cost of passports for my wife and daughter, a hotel, food, and a rental car, etc... We would appreciate your prayers concerning this. If you would like to help, please send any love-offerings to our sending church marked “Clough Survey Trip.”

We hope that each and everyone of you had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May the Lord bless you all in 2011 as you strive in His service.

Unto Him Be Glory,

Brother Don Clough, Missionary to Scotland

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T07:55:00.004-06:00

From our Family to Yours,

Merry Christmas!

This Christmas season, let us not forget to honor the Lord Jesus Christ, Who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, and died in our place on the cross of Calvary.

May your New Year be filled with many blessings as you continue to strive in His service.

The Cloughs

New Support

2010-12-17T09:47:00.005-06:00

On Wednesday, I received a call from my pastor. He had good news. A pastor from a church in Texas had sent him a letter stating that their church would be taking us on for support. What a blessing! That same night, we presented our ministry in a church in Oklahoma. Right after I preached, the pastor recommended to the church that they take us on for support. The church voted right then and there to support us. Praise the Lord! In December alone, six churches have indicated that they want to partner with us in our missionary endeavors to Scotland.

We are pleased, and overwhelmed at the same time. We went the whole month of October, and most of November without any new churches stating that they wished to support us. Many missionaries reassured me that this was typical! Most churches don't take on a missionary right away. It's usually several months down the road. So we trusted in our God. It's a blessing to see how the Lord honors our trust in Him! At the end of November, one church pledged to support, and now six this month. The Lord truly is good. God be praised!

Have Bible - Will Travel

2010-12-10T12:24:00.004-06:00

So far, our deputation trails have taken us through several states, up and down the midwest. We're currently in Healdton, OK. We're staying in a very nice missions house for the next week and a half. We'll be presenting our ministry at the church here in Healdton this Sunday, and then in Ardmore this next Wednesday. Following that, we have a couple of meetings in Iowa before we head back to Minnesota for Christmas and the New Year.

Things have gone very well for us to this point. We're currently at 9.5% in our pledged support. There are two other churches who've said they'll be taking us on, but we don't know what amounts yet. So, that will increase our pledged support amount as well. And there are several other prospects that we haven't heard from yet.

It's been a real blessing to be able to present our ministry in so many places. But more than that, I've enjoyed being able to preach the Word! It's been our goal to be a blessing wherever we go. In many of the places that we've gone, people have said, "That was exactly what I needed to hear!" Praise the Lord! It's not because I'm an eloquent preacher. The key is being directed and filled with the Holy Spirit. We pray that the Lord would continue to use us as it pleases Him, and bring in our support in His time!

Don Clough

If At First You Don't Succeed...

2010-12-04T21:58:00.003-06:00

As a parent, I know that it is my responsibility to teach and train my children. But it is surprising sometimes just how my I learn from them!

Today we took Harry to the park to let him play for a while. There were several other kids there that he was interacting with. On one occassion, Harry was sitting at the top of a corkscrew slide, and talking to another little boy. He lost his grip and fell backwards down the slide, tumbling all the way down. He cried for a moment, and I came over and brushed him off.

Do you know what that little boy did? He went right back up to that slide and went down again (this time with less acrobatics!).

I immediately thought of a verse from Proverbs which I've included below:

"For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief."

(Proverbs 24:16)

What a lessson for each of us to learn! Many times, we will fall, and we will fail in our service for the Lord. The key is that we get back up and try again! Just as I came over and dusted Harry off, our Heavenly Father comes to our aid and helps us to our feet. All we need to do is get back in His service!

Don

Be Ready Always

2010-12-03T15:57:00.007-06:00

Today we were out at the Dallas Museum of Nature and Science. Shortly before we left, we were approached by a man and a woman. The man was a double-amputee and was being pushed by the woman (his wife) in a wheel-chair. They stopped and asked us for money so they could get a hotel room for the night. (I know what you're thinking: "I've heard this before!)

As soon as I saw the man, I thought of a passage of scripture from the book of Acts, which I've quoted below:

"And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; (3) Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. (4) And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. (5) And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. (6) Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." (Act 3:2-6)

Now, I didn't tell the man to rise up and walk! But I did give the man such as I had. I gave him a gospel tract, and told him that I didn't have any money to give him (which was true!), but I wanted to give him something much more important!

You know, the Bible tells us in I Peter 3:15: "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:" We need to be ready, regardless of the situation we are in, to be a witness for the Lord Jesus Christ! Thank God someone took the time to witness to us!

November Prayer Letter

2010-12-02T11:19:00.003-06:00

Dear Prayer Partners,

The Lord has been abundantly good to us this past month. We have so much to be thankful for! The Lord has met our needs on every occasion, and has blessed us above, and beyond anything that we deserve! One church has pledged to take us on for support, and there are several other prospects on the horizon. Please continue to pray that the Lord would bring in our support in His time.

At the beginning of November, we attended a missions conference in Broken Arrow, OK. It was a tremendous blessing to us! We had a great time of fellowship, and the church blew us away with their generosity! A special “thank you” to the Pyrziewskis for allowing us to stay in their home while we were with their church. We also had the privilege of presenting our ministry in Muskogee, Kingfisher, and Duncan Oklahoma. We made many new friends, and several new contacts for the future. A special “thank you” to the Browns in Muskogee for opening their home to us, and to the Taylors in Duncan for allowing us to share Thanksgiving with them.

Toward the middle of the month we headed into Texas. (It’s been nice to head south for the winter!) The Lord allowed us to present our ministry in Plainview, and Lubbock Texas. “Thank you” to the Johnsons in Plainview, TX for letting us stay with them while we were in the area. And we want to thank all of those in Lubbock who made our stay so enjoyable.

A SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST

My wife and I had been praying about taking another survey trip to Scotland. (I went alone the first time due to the birth of our second child.) One of the churches that we visited gave us a tremendous love-offering that covered the cost of our plane tickets. What a blessing! We still need the Lord to bring in about $1,500 to cover the cost of a hotel, food, and a rental car. We would appreciate your prayers concerning this. If you would like to help, please send any love-offerings to our sending church marked “Clough Survey Trip.” Lord bless you and yours! We hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

Unto Him Be Glory,

Brother Don Clough, Missionary to Scotland

South for the Winter

2010-11-28T07:58:00.005-06:00

Our deputation travels have taken us through most of the midwest. We've been in North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma and Texas. As of now, we're scheduled to be in Texas until the middle of December. Then we'll work our way back north to chilly Minnesota where we'll spend Christmas with my parents and the people of our sending church.

After Christmas, if the Lord allows, we'll once again be heading south. We have meetings in Arkansas through the month of January and into the first part of February. Then, we have several meetings in Missouri in April, and several in Kentucky into the first half of May.

It will be nice to head south for most of the winter! I've lived in Minnesota for going on 20 years, and have been through all of those winters. It's kind of a nice reprieve to have 60's and 70's (and even 80's) in November! We will have a little taste of winter however. We'll be home for Christmas, and we have a missions conference scheduled in Canada in March! (what were we thinking ;)

Don

Deputation

2010-11-15T17:57:00.008-06:00

Life on the road can be quite interesting, especially when you're travelling with two children under the age of 3! All in all it has been a fun experience. After Don finished working at Staples we took time to pack and began moving things out of the house.

So far we have been through North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. We head into Texas on Wednesday.

We've enjoyed being in different churches and meeting new people. Whenever we visit a new church Harry always suggests we go find the nursery. He and Kathy have done very well. Harry loves meeting new kids. Kathy just grins and babbles at new people. She's been a very agreeable baby.

We went to a little state park while travelling through the badlands of North Dakota. It was very windy, but a nice day for travelling. On Don's birthday we were near St Louis and spent the day over there. Silver Dollar City was a blast. The kids were really good. It was a cool day, but we had a lot of fun. What a wonderful way to spend our anniversary.

While we were staying in Springfield I got in touch with a good friend of mine, Lycia. She had been my maid-of-honor and I hadn't seen her in 5 years. We had a great time visiting. The day after our anniversary she watched the kids for us so we could go out to eat.

It would take much time to detail all of our travels. We have had good times visiting with church people, staying with church members, shopping, meeting up with old friends and other missionaries, etc.

Harry is getting so big and has become very independent. He wants to do everything on his own and will say, once he has accomplished something on his own, 'Look, I helped myself!' He loves laughing with Kathy when we're travelling in the car. Whenever we come to a new town we're always on the lookout for a playground. This often consists of the following exclamations: 'Look there's a sign for the park!', 'There's the mall, that probably has a playground!' and 'Look, there's a playground right by the church!' If we don't see anything as we come in it's usually, 'Well, we could google it or try the GPS!'

Kathy continues to learn new things and is now 7 months old. She doesn't crawl as we think she should! She does the military crawl. She can move all around the room. I sometimes expect her to hit a milestone at the same time Harry did and then remember that they are different. She loves to babble - such a girl! She says 'bababa' and 'mamama.' Although she doesn't know what she's saying, it's really cute when she wants something, looks at me and says 'mamama.' Kathy loves watching Harry and they will giggle at each other for a very long time. They play pretty well together except when he wants to wrestle or play rough. He doesn't realize she can't play that way yet.

I often take Harry to the park when Kathy is napping so Don can do things like studying or calling people.

We are enjoying our travels and the warm weather since this time of year it is cold and snowy in Minnesota. If you want to see more pictures leave a comment and I will try to e-mail you.

~ Tabitha

October Prayer Letter

2010-11-11T13:10:00.002-06:00

Dear Prayer Partners,

We started out the month of October in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where we attended a Preacher’s Conference. I’ve gone to this particular conference for a number of years. But this was the first time I’ve attended it as a man of God. I had the honor of being the first speaker, which was a tremendous blessing! While we were at the conference, we stayed with my sister and her family. It was fun to be able to see our nieces and nephews again, and our son enjoyed playing with his cousins.

From Sioux Falls, we headed south into Kansas. We presented our ministry in DeSoto and Wichita, KS. I was able to stay with a pastor friend for 4 or 5 days while were in the Kansas City area. He was gracious enough to open his home to us. We had a great time of fellowship. My wife enjoyed it as well, because she got to cook some of the meals. (Believe it or not, now that we are on the road, my wife misses cooking!) Thanks to all of you in Kansas. You were all a great blessing to us!

One Sunday night we didn’t have a meeting, so we dropped in on a church in Merriam, KS. It turned out to be a tremendous blessing. The pastor allowed me to present our ministry and take some questions. And they even gave us a love-offering to get us down the road! Praise the Lord! The church also supports a friend of mine who is a missionary to Scotland.

Around the middle of the month, we went over to Missouri for several meetings. We were able to attend a missions conference in Spokane, MO where I had the privilege of preaching and presenting our ministry. We were also able to present our ministry in a church in Ash Grove, MO during their missions month. It was very relaxing! We also presented our ministry in churches in Wildwood, St. Clair and Springfield, MO. We had a great time in each of those churches, and enjoyed the fellowship tremendously. “Thank you” to all of you in Missouri. You know who you are, and so does the Lord! A special thank you to the Sloan family, and Mrs. Walker for allowing us to stay in their homes while we were with their churches.

At the end of the month, we headed into Oklahoma. We were able to present our ministry in two churches in the Oklahoma City area. One of those two churches were celebrating their 45th anniversary while we were there. I had the honor of preaching their 45th anniversary challenge. We had a wonderful fellowship meal after the morning service, and in the afternoon, the church had a special service for their anniversary. We sang several congregational songs, and many people sang specials, etc… The other church we attended there also had a fellowship meal, so were very spoiled! Again, many thanks to those churches and their pastors for allowing us to come, and taking excellent care of us! A special thank you to the Truman family for showing us some neat things from Scotland, and for giving us some things for our display table.

From the Pulpit - Our Great High Priest

2010-11-08T09:58:00.004-06:00

Each month, if the Lord allows, we will post a different message that I've preached on our deputation trail. We hope it will be a blessing to you in some way!

Our Great High Priest

Text: Hebrews 4:14-16

Intro: Verse 14 tells us that we have a Great High Priest in the Lord Jesus Christ. Now, if you’re familiar with the Old Testament, you know that the tribe of Levi was selected to minister in Tabernacle. Some of the Levites were responsible for the Tabernacle itself (setting it up, taking it down, maintaining it, etc…). Others became priests that ministered in the Tabernacle, and offered sacrifices.

>>> And then there was the high priest. The high priest had certain duties, obligations, and privileges that the other priests didn’t have. Only the high priest could go into the “holiest of all”, or behind the veil. And even he could only go in once a year. And when he went in, he would first offer a sacrifice for himself, and then he would offer a sacrifice for the people.

>>> So, we know who the high priest was in the Old Testament. And we know what he did. But why is Christ called a Great High Priest?

Message: (Heb 4:14a) “Seeing then that we have a great high priest…”

>>> So, why is Christ called a Great High Priest? There’s obviously a comparison that’s being made between His priesthood and the Levitical Priesthood. It’s by that comparison that Christ is called a Great High Priest. Let me give you a few reasons why Christ is Our Great High Priest.

· He is a Great High Priest Because He has a Greater Priestly Line

o The Priests of the Temple/Tabernacle Were of the Tribe of Levi

o But Christ is a High Priest After the Order of Melchisedec

§ (Heb 5:6,10) “As he saith also in another place, Thou art a PRIEST for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (10) Called of God an HIGH PRIEST after the order of Melchisedec.”

>>>Now, why is this important?

§ The Priesthood of Melchisedec Is An Everlasting Priesthood

· (Heb 7:1-3) “For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; (2) To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; (3) Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.”

o See the Comparison to Christ? (No beginning, or end – Alpha and Omega!)

§ Because Christ is a Priest After the Order of Melchisedec, He Also Has An Everlasting Priesthood!

· (Heb 7:16-17) “Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. (17) For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

· (Heb 7:23-25) “And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: (24) But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. (25) Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing HE EVER LIVETH to make intercession for them.”

o See the Contrast? (Levitical Priests Die – Christ Lives Forever!)

· He is a Great High Priest Because He Offered a Greater Sacrifice

o His Sacrifice is Greater Because It is Complete

§ We Find that The Levitical Priests had to Offer Sacrifices Continually

· There Were Daily Sacrifices, and

· There Were Yearly Sacrifices

§ But Christ Offered One Sacrifice Once For All!

· (Heb 7:25-27) “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. (26) For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; (27) Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.”

· (Heb 9:25-26) “Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; (26) For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”

· (Heb 10:11-14) “And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: (12) But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; (13) From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. (14) For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.”

(Heb 4:14a-b) “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens…”

· Our Great High Priest Ministers In the Heavenly Sanctuary

o The Levitical Priests Offered Their Sacrifices In a Man-Made Sanctuary

o But, Christ Offered His Once-For-All Sacrifice in the Heavenly Sanctuary!

§ (Heb 9:22-26) “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. (23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. (24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: (25) Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; (26) For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”

Note: After the Lord Jesus Christ rose from the grave, He took the blood that He had shed on our behalf to the very throne of God and placed in on the Mercy Seat in Heaven!

o As Our High Priest, Christ Sits on the Right Hand of the Throne of God!

§ (Heb 8:1-2) “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; (2) A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.”

§ The Fact That He “Sat Down” Indicates that His Work is Done!

· (Heb 10:11-12) “And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: (12) But this man, AFTER he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;”

§ To Sit on the Right Hand of God is an Exalted Position!

· (Eph 1:20-21) “Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (21) FAR ABOVE all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:” (cf. Philippians 2:9-11)

§ From the Right Hand of God, Christ Intercedes On Our Behalf

· (Rom 8:34) “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”

(Heb 4:14) “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.”

>>> In other words…

· “Let’s Hold On To What We Believe!”

>>> We have something worth believing in! We have a Saviour that has shed His blood for us! We have a Saviour Who has gone to the right hand of the throne of God and is even now interceding on our behalf! What other religion can make those claims?

APPLICATION: You and I have nothing to be ashamed of! A lot of times the world mocks our faith, and belittles us for the things we believe. But my Saviour sits at the right hand of God highly exalted! Where does their “savior” sit? My Saviour paid for my salvation! What has their “savior” done for them? Listen, you and I have something worth holding on to! We have a risen, living, and interceding Saviour!

· In Other Words, “Let’s Continue Serving Him!”

o (2Ti 3:14) “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;”

(Heb 4:15a) “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities;

>>> In other words, our Great High Priest CAN be touched by the things that happen in our lives. He knows what we are going through, because He’s been through the things you and I have been through!

o He Experienced: 1) Hunger & Thirst, 2)Pain & Sorrow, 3) Loss of Loved Ones, 4) Betrayal & Rejection, etc…

(Heb 4:15b) “…but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”

>>> Not only did He go through all of the things that you and I go through in our lives, but He was also tempted just like you and I are tempted to sin! The difference is He overcame those temptations. (2 Cor 5:21; I John 3:5)

(Heb 4:16) “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

· (Heb 2:16-18) “For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. (17) Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. (18) For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.”

>>> You and I can go boldly to the throne of grace, because our Great High Priest is at the right hand of God, ready to hear our prayers! He knows what we’re going through, because He’s gone through those things Himself. So, He’s able to help us!

APPLICATION: Are you going boldly to the throne of grace? As believers we have the privilege of going to God in prayer. And not only that, we have a High Priest Who sits at the right hand of the throne of God, ready to hear our prayers and to make intercession for us!

Conclusion: You and I have a Great High Priest! He offered a greater sacrifice. He ministers in a greater sanctuary. He sits at the right hand of the throne of God, highly exalted! Every knee will bow to Him, and every tongue will confess that He is Lord! And you know what, our Great High Priest is touched by the things that you and I go through, because He’s gone through them Himself! We have a Great High Priest! Let us hold fast the profession of our faith, for we have something worth holding on to! And, let us go boldly to His throne, for Christ sits at the right hand of the throne of God ready to intercede for us!

This message was preached at Grace Bible Baptist Church in Springfield, MO. Look for other editions of the "From the Pulpit" series at www.cloughfamilyupdate.blogspot.org.

From the Pulpit - The Trying of Your Faith

2010-10-22T12:11:00.012-05:00

Each month, if the Lord allows, we will post a different message that I've preached on our deputation trail. We hope it will be a blessing to you in some way!

The Trying of Your Faith

Text: James 1:1-8

(Jas 1:1-8) "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. (2) My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; (3) Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (4) But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (5) If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (6) But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. (7) For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. (8) A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."

Intro: I think all of us are probably familiar with this passage of scripture. We know that it deals with trials and tests. But, by way of introduction, I’d like to give you a little background into the purpose of this letter.

In verse one, we find that the author is James, and that his intended audience is the “twelve tribes scattered abroad.” Now, there has been some debate just as to who this “James” is, and what he means when he addresses the “twelve tribes scattered abroad.” Now, rather than go into all that, let me just show you what I believe.

I believe that the phrase: “the twelve tribes scattered abroad” refers to the church at Jerusalem, and that the James mentioned here is the James who, after Christ then Peter, became the pastor of the church at Jerusalem. Here are some reasons:

1) The Church at Jerusalem Was Made Up Jews From All Twelve Tribes

a. The Original Members Were Jews (the Apostles)

b. On the Day of Pentecost, 3,000 Jews From All Over the Known World Were Saved, Baptized, and Added to the Church at Jerusalem

2) James Was Known to be the Pastor of the Jerusalem Church

a. There Was a Council Held in Jerusalem (Concerning the Judaizers)

b. James Made the Final Decision at that Council (Acts 15:13-21)

3) The Jewish Christians of the Church At Jerusalem Were “Scattered Abroad” Due to Persecution

· (Act 8:1) “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.”

I believe this book was written by James, the pastor of the church at Jerusalem, to the members of his church who had been scattered because of persecution. That being said, these Jewish Christians were no strangers to trials and tests! They greatly needed to hear the things that were penned in the book of James. They needed to hear how they might handle these tests they were going through. It was good for them to hear it!

Now, the fact of the matter is you and I also go through tests, and it’s good for you and I to know these things as well.

Message Body: The first thing I want us to see from this passage is that trials are inevitable. Verse 2 tells us… “My brethren, count it all joy WHEN ye fall into divers temptations;” So, it is not a matter of “IF you fall into temptations”, but “WHEN you fall into temptations!” There is no question that we who are saved will go through a number of trials and tests in our Christian lives.

That being said, how should we handle trials and tests when they come along?

I. COUNT IT ALL JOY!

(Jas 1:2) “My brethren, COUNT IT ALL JOY when ye fall into divers temptations;”

Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Aren’t we talking about trials and tests? Aren’t we talking about hardships, and adversity? We’re supposed to “count it all joy” when we go through a hard time?

· That Phrase “Count it All Joy” is an Accounting Term

An accountant has a ledger with columns in which he keeps track of income and expenses. Debits go into one column, and credits into another. Each transaction must be “accounted” for whether it be an income, or an expense.

Often times as Christians, we make judgments on the things that are going on in our lives. We get a new car – that is good. The car breaks down – that is bad. Extra money – that is good. Unexpected expenses – that is bad. And so on… But we automatically label each situation that comes into our lives as either good or bad.

When we go through hard times, we have a tendency to automatically say, “This is bad!” But that is not always the case. Many times God uses trials and tests in our lives to make us better! James is telling us to be Spiritual Accountants and put trials and tests in the column of “Joy!”

· We Can Count it All Joy When We Are Tried Because We Know God Has a Purpose!

o (1Pe 1:7) “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”

§ The End Goal is that Our Lives Might Be Pleasing to Him!

This is another reason for us to “Count it All Joy” when we are going through hard times: Look at verses 3 & 4...

(Jas 1:3,4) “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (4) But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

· Each Trial Builds Patience In Us For The Next Trial

o Ultimately Those Trials Prepare Us To Do Something In His Service

§ Trials Help Us to Be: Perfect/Entire/Wanting Nothing!

§ In Other Words, Trials Complete Us that We May Be Used of God

§ Through Trials, God is Able to Use Us in His Service!

Note: How Can We Expect God to Use Us If We Have Not Been First Tested? If a general had an important mission, he wouldn’t choose an untested soldier. He would choose a veteran who had already proven himself.

o The Truth Is, We Are Not Ready to Serve Him in the Capacity He Has Chosen if We’ve Not Been Tested

APPLICATION: Let me ask you this, when you go through a hard time, do you remember to “Count it All Joy”? Again, we tend to think of every adverse situation that arises in our life as bad. We often lose sight of the fact that God is using those situations to make us better! Count it all joy! Praise the Lord that God is working in your life, so that He can use you! Isn’t that what it’s all about – serving Him? We can’t serve Him, if we’ve not been tested.

So, first of all, when we go through hard times, we need to “Count it All Joy.” Secondly, when we go through hard times, we need to…

II. COUNCIL WITH THE LORD

(Jas 1:5) “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

There are times when we find ourselves in circumstance that are beyond our control, and outside of our ability. Sometimes, we are blindsided by things, and we wonder what to do! When this happens…

· Don’t Scheme – Don’t Try and Come Up With the Solution On Your Own

This is what most people do when they are going through a hard time. They rack their brain, and try and come up with some way that they can take care of the problem in their own strength and power! “If I more here – sell this – take this job, etc…” The Lord wants us to go to Him and trust Him!

o (Pro 3:5-6) “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (6) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Illustration: A few weeks ago, we were in a Preaching Conference in South Dakota. All that we had was $15 to our name! We had bills to pay, food and diapers to buy, etc... We weren't sure what to do! The Bible says in Philippians 4:19: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” We decided to take God at His Word and trust Him to supply our needs. In the end, the Lord abundantly supplied our needs! Almost two years ago, I closed out an account with a financial services firm - or at least I thought I had! I received an email stating that I still had money in the account! Praise the Lord! It was exactly what we needed!

· Don’t Worry – Worrying Won’t Change the Situation, it Will Just Make You Upset!

o (Php 4:6a) “Be careful for nothing…”

· Don’t Forget to Pray! Council With the Lord!

o (Php 4:6) “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

o (1Pe 5:7) “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

Note: Many times I have to say, “Lord, will you take this? I’m worried about it. I don’t know what to do? Lord, will you take care of this for me?”

o When We Go to the Lord, We Must Go in Faith, Believing That He Hears Our Prayers and Will Provide the Answer! (v.6,7)

APPLICATION: When you go through a hard time; when you’re tested and tried, do you scheme and try to come up with your own solution? Do you constantly worry about the problem? Or, do you bring it to God in faith, asking Him to intervene on your behalf? God wants us to ask for His help! He wants to help us! But we must go in faith, believing that He is able!

So, we’ve seen that, when we are tested, we must “Count it all Joy”, and “Council with the Lord.” Thirdly, when we go through trials and tests we need to…

III. CONSIDER THE REWARDS OF FAITHFULNESS

(Jas 1:12) “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.”

· There Are Rewards Waiting For Those Who Remain Faithful, Even in the Hard Times

· (2Ti 4:7) “ I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”

o Paul Went Through More Adversity Than Any Of Us Ever Have

o In All of It, He Kept the Faith – He Remained Faithful

· (2Ti 4:8) “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Closing: In the beginning of this message, I talked about the fact that this letter was written to the members of the church at Jerusalem who had been scattered abroad due to persecution. We think of that time, and those circumstances and we might come to the conclusion that this whole situation was just plain bad. But that is not the case. Did you know that God used the scattering of these Jewish Christians for good? Acts 8:4 tells us: “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” We know from the Bible that the church of Samaria, and the church of Antioch were started as a result. God took a situation that looked bad, and used it for good! What you and I ought to take away from this is the fact that God has a purpose in everything that He allows in our lives! So, before we throw our hands up in despair, remember that God is in control, that He has a purpose in the trial, and that purpose is to make us better.

This message was preached by Missionary Don Clough at Bible Baptist Church of Ash Grove, MO on Sunday, October 17th. Look for other editions of the "From the Pulpit" series on http://www.cloughfamilyupdate.blogspot.com/.

September Prayer Letter

2010-10-04T12:08:00.004-05:00

Dear Prayer Partners,

It’s hard to believe another month has gone by already! I always thought that time went by quickly, but nothing compares to how fast time passes when you’re on the road. Sunday quickly fades into Wednesday, and Wednesday into Sunday, and so on… But, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every meeting we have puts us one step closer to getting to Scotland and doing the work the Lord has called us to do. Please pray that the Lord would allow us to continue scheduling meetings where we might present our ministry and preach His Word.

This last month, we continued our trek through North Dakota. We were able to have several meetings: some with men I’ve known for quite a while, and others with men I had the privilege of meeting for the first time. I am pleased to report that we picked up another supporting church during our time there! That puts our current pledged support level at 7%. God be praised! Please pray that God would bring in the remaining support that we need, whether it be from new churches that we will visit, or in churches we’ve already been in.

Toward the middle of September, we were able to head home for a little while. It was good to be able spend time with the people of our sending church. It had been nearly a month since we had seen any of them. The next time, it will be longer before we see them again. Lord bless all of you at New Testament Baptist Church in Rochester, MN!

We are currently booked all the way through November 21st of this year. The Lord allowed us to schedule every Sunday and every Wednesday from now until then. That will be a tremendous blessing! Please pray for us, that we might be a blessing wherever we go, and that the Holy Spirit would speak through me as I preach and present our ministry.

It has been our desire from day one to be a blessing, and let the Lord bring in the support we need in His time! This attitude has made all the difference for us. When a church doesn’t take us on for support, and we start to get discouraged, we just have to remind ourselves that we’re there to be a blessing. In that way, we’re able to rejoice in the fact that Lord has used us to be a blessing to someone else, and that we’ve been able to glorify Him in some small way!

Unto Him Be Glory,

Brother Don Clough, Missionary to Scotland

A Defense of the King James Bible

2010-09-21T20:07:00.007-05:00

There are MANY different translations of the Bible availabe in the English language today. A comparison of any TWO of those translations will reveal several meaningful doctrinal differences. The question is: "Which translation can be trusted?" I believe, through much study and faith, that the King James Bible is God's Word for English speaking people. To demonstrate this, we’re going to look at three areas concerning the Scriptures: 1) Inspiration, 2) Preservation, and 3) Translation.

I. INSPIRATION

>>> By Inspiration, we are referring to the way that God was able to give us His Word originally. The term inspiration literally means: “God breathed.” In other words, the Bible is the Word of God to mankind.

· (2Ti 3:16) “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

>>> Here we see that ALL scripture is inspired of God. This is what is known as plenary inspiration. Every word of the Bible is inspired of God, and not just some parts. From Genesis to Revelation, we have the words of God to mankind.

· (2Pe 1:20,21) “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. (21) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”

>>> Here we see that, even though God used human agents, the words they penned were His words!

Note: Some question the inspiration of the Bible due to the varying styles of the authors. This does not discredit inspiration at all. It means that God was able to use these men to pen His word and still allow the characteristics of these men to come through. They were not robots, but filled and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Example: If you were to write the same sentence "God is love" with different types of untensils (pens, markers, paint brush, chisel), the sentence would look different but would still say the same thing. In terms of penning the Word of God, the characteristics of the author came through, but the message was still God's. And I believe God chose the right person to say the things that He wanted said in the way He wanted them said.

· Throughout the Old Testament, you find the phrase: “Thus saith the Lord.” This indicates that the words of the prophets were not their words, but God’s words! This is what we mean by inspiration.

· It is important to know that every word of God is inspired, not just the thoughts.

(Pro 30:5) “Every WORD of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.”

(Mat 4:4) “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every WORD that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

Note: That phrase “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” speaks of inspiration. Remember, inspiration means “God-breathed” or spoken by God.

II. PRESERVATION

>>> We have seen that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. But what difference does that make if we don’t have His Word today? There are many who believe in the inspiration of the “original autographs” of the scriptures. But there is one problem with that: we don’t have the original autographs anymore. They crumbled away into dust. What we do have is copies of copies, of copies, etc… because God has Preserved His Inspired Word! (Psa 12:6-7) “The WORDS of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (7) Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.”

>>> As we had Verbal Inspiration (the WORDS), we also have Verbal Preservation. God didn’t just preserve the thoughts of the Bible, He preserved the WORDS themselves! And how long will God preserve them? “From this generation”-when they were written, “for ever”-that means we have God’s Word now!

· (Psa 119:89) “For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.”

· (Isa 40:8) “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”

· (Mat 24:35) “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”

· (1Pe 1:23) “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.”

>>> What all these verses are saying, is that there will never be a time in which we will not have the Word of God! His Word will always be accessible to us!

III. TRANSLATION

>>> As we’ve said, God has Inspired His Word, and He has Preserved it in the original languages. But that doesn’t make any difference if it is not in a language that I can understand! As you know, the New Testament was written in Greek, and the Old Testament was written in Hebrew. Does anyone speak either of those languages? This is where translation comes in.

>>> As a result of my personal studies, I believe by faith that the King James Bible is God’s Word in English. Let me give you three reasons.

A. The Textual Basis of the King James Bible

1. The Textus Receptus Greek Text

>>> Of all the manuscripts, and lectionaries that are extant, or still in existence today, over 99% are in agreement with the Textus Receptus, or the Received Text.

>>> The remaining 1% is what is known as the Minority Text. It is from this text that all of the modern English Bibles are translated from. (NIV, RSV, NKJV, etc…)

>>> The main documents that make up the Minority text (codex Vaticanus, and codex Sinaiticus) are of highly questionable character. According to Dr. D.A. Waite, a leading authority on Biblical texts, “The Sinai manuscript was found in the wastepaper basket at St. Catherine’s Monastery. They were getting ready to burn it to keep warm for the winter.” Along came Tischendorf, who found it in the trash, and bought it from the monks!

>>> Both the codex Vaticanus, and the codex Sinaiticus differ from the TR in thousands of places, and do not even agree with one another.

(From “Defending the King James Bible” by Dr. D.A. Waite)

2. The Masoretic Hebrew Text

>>> This is a version of the Old Testament that has been widely accepted and used for thousands of years! It is the textual basis for the Old Testament of the King James Bible.

>>> All other English Bibles use several different, and conflicting manuscripts to translate the Old Testament text.

APPLY: The King James Bible was translated from vastly superior texts which have stood the test of time, because God has preserved those texts! Therefore, the King James Bible has stood the test of time. (1611-2010 - 399 years!)

B. The Translators of the King James Bible

1. They Were Men of Exceptional Qualifications

>>> The kind of scholarship that these men possessed can not be found with the modern translators. Many of these men were fluent in both Hebrew and Greek, as well as their sister languages (Aramaic, Syrian, Arabic, etc…) (From “Defending the King James Bible” by Dr. D.A. Waite)

2. They Safeguarded Themselves Against Translational Error

>>> The translators were divided up into 6 groups: 2 groups at Cambridge, 2 at Oxford, and 2 at Westminster. Each of these groups translated various portions of the Scriptures. What they translated then passed on to the Stationer’s Hall Committee. This committee was made up of 12 men, 2 from each group. The Stationer’s Hall Committee would review the translations and then pass them on to the Publication Committee. Once they passed through the Publication Committee’s review, they would then, and only then proceed to the final step – The Royal Printer.

(From “Manuscript Evidence” [hereafter ME], by Robert J. Sargent)

>>> Each of these steps provided a safeguard from error, a check and balance, and prevented any one man from forcing his opinions into the text of scripture.

C. The Technique of the Translators (From “ME” pg. 190 by Sargent)

1. There Are Several Different Translation Techniques That Are in Use Today

- Here Are Some Examples

a. Dynamic Translation

“This is the translation of sense, without great concern for words. The ‘dynamic equivalency’ mehod of translating…attempts to couch the meaning of Scripture in the contemporary speech of the culture.” (Example: Good News For Modern Man)

b. Paraphrase, or Free Translation

“This is similar to the ‘dynamic translation’ mentioned above, in that it concerns itself with ideas rather than words. To paraphrase is ‘to put in other words.’ It is more interpretation than translation.” (Example: the Living Bible)

c. Formal Translation

“[This] refers to the classical method of translation, whereby the words, the sense, the style, and the emphasis of Hebrew and Greek text are not only accurately translated, but are set in a proper form of the English language. Accurate but readable!”

>>> The superior translation technique is that of formal translation. The word of God tells us, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by EVERY WORD that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) It doesn’t say “every thought” or “every idea.” It says “every word.” The WORDS are important. The WORDS were inspired. The WORDS were preserved. Therefore, the WORDS should translated.

>>> The King James Translators used the technique of Formal Translation. All other versions use a mixture of dynamic equivalence, and paraphrase to translate their versions of the Bible.

APPLY: When it comes to the Bible, do you want some man’s opinion of what God is saying, or do you want and accurate, error free translation of what God actually said?

Conclusion: There are many other things we could have talked about. But we’ve covered the major areas that concern the translation of the King James Bible. Other versions have used different texts, and lesser qualified translators, and poor translation techniques. The result has been the perversion of the Words of God. All of the modern translations destroy Biblical doctrines (Deity of Christ, Virgin Birth, Blood Atonement, etc…). Only one version has stood the test of time, and preserved the pure undefiled doctrines of the scriptures for English speaking people – that is the King James Bible.

I am not a Ruckmanite. I believe that God has Preserved His Inspired Word down through the centuries until this present day. And I believe that the King James Bible is an accurate translation of the preserved texts of the Scriptures (Textus Receptus, and Masoretic Hebrew).

August 2010 Prayer Letter

2010-09-11T12:53:00.006-05:00

“And the things which thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men who shall be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:2)

Dear Prayer Partners,

This month marked the beginning of full-time deputation for our family. My last day of secular work was August 13th. Then the real work began. We spent that next week packing, moving and storing our possessions at my parent’s house. We had no idea how long it would take to get all of that done. Praise the Lord we had the whole week to work on it!

Toward the third week in August, we were able to attend a Preacher’s Conference at Victory Baptist Church in Alsip, Illinois. We enjoyed some excellent preaching and good fellowship. It was a real blessing to once again be able to see some preachers that I have met over the years, and also to make some new acquaintances. My wife’s family also attended the Preacher’s Conference, so we were able to spend time with them. On the last day of the Preacher’s Conference, Pastor French said that he felt led to take up an offering for missions. They collected over $600. Since my family and I were the only missionaries present, all the money that was collected went to us. It was a tremendous blessing! The Lord gave us the exact amount that we needed to get through the end of the month. Praise the Lord!

Toward the end of August, we headed up to Larimore, ND to be with Pastor Shaffer and the members of New Testament Baptist Church. I presented our ministry in the morning service, and then preached in the evening service. Our family had an excellent time. I met many people at the church who had been to Scotland, so we were able to talk about our experiences there, which was great. We didn’t have anything scheduled for the following Wednesday, so the church graciously let us stay in their mission’s apartment for the whole week. Their generosity and care was a great blessing to us.

I just learned today that another church is planning on taking us on for support at $100/month. God be praised! That will put our current support level up to 5%. That puts us one step closer to getting to Scotland, where we can preach the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

We are excited about what God is doing, and what He will do as we continue in His service. May He receive all the glory, honour, and praise! If any good thing comes out of our lives, we know it is God working in us! “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)

Unto Him Be Glory,

Brother Don Clough, Missionary to Scotland

Full-time Deputation

2010-08-24T22:03:00.006-05:00

Well, the time is now upon us. We have started our full-time deputation, and there is no turning back, and no stopping until we reach Scotland. We feel sort of like Abraham, not knowing where the Lord will take us, but follwing Him by faith!

"By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went." (Hebrews 11:8)

Last week was a very busy week for us. We spent everyday packing, and loading, and moving, and storing most of our things. Tabitha is very happy, because we also got rid of several things that she had wanted to be rid of awhile ago.

As of now, we are in Illinois. We will be in North Dakota most of September, and in October, we'll be in Kansas and Missouri. Our prayer is that we can be a blessing, and let God bring in the support we need in His time.

Unto Him Be Glory! - Don

Summer

2010-08-09T13:22:00.002-05:00

Well, we have been pretty busy these past few months. We visited 6 churches in June and July. Many are praying about taking us on for support. We just found out this past Sunday that one church will now be supporting us monthly. Our visits were very enjoyable and we have made new friends.
We have also been packing, or rather, I have been packing. There is still much to do as far as that goes. Then we will be selling most of our furniture. I'll be pretty busy the next two weeks before we go full time! Also, we are trying to sell our trailer and we've had many call about it and some even come to see it, but no one has seemed very interested yet.
This is Don's last week of work. Sniff! Well, not really. He is eager to be done with secular work and begin what God has called him to do! I am not belittling those that have secular jobs. If that is where God wants you to be then that's great! But God has called Don to the ministry and that is where he longs to be.
Kathy is 4 months now and getting so big. She is not so sure about rice cereal, but she has to start somewhere, right? She has rolled over in bed quite a bit, but hasn't really done it outside of bed yet. It is such a blessing that she sleeps through the night! She goes to bed about 9 pm, but with Harry in the room it's almost 10 pm before they get to sleep! Then she sleeps til about 7 or 7:30!! She still sleeps alot, but is slowly able to stay awake for longer periods.
Harry is Harry! He loves to sing and is constantly picking up songs from church. He'll start singing and I have to figure out what we had been singing recently to understand what he is saying. He still loves his cars and his newly acquired construction vehicles (dump truck, excavator, steamroller, loader, bulldozer).
I am trying to learn to sew. I am having a good friend, Linda, from church teach me. It'll be interesting to see how I do! It will be nice to be able to make some of my own clothes when we get to Scotland or even clothes for Kathy or Harry.
Well, I will try to write more, but I don't know how things will go once we're on the road. It's an exciting journey we will begin soon. Keep us in your prayers!!!
~ Tabitha

So much to do!

2010-06-22T10:41:00.006-05:00

It has been a long time since either of us has written anything, so I thought it was time to write again.
We have been pretty busy since Don's survey trip. There was the presentation to get ready, put together a display board and order pray cards. Don worked a while on the prayer cards and after having some other people offer suggestions and look over it the prayer card was finally finished.
We had our first two meetings on the 9th and the 13th of June. They went very well!
Now we are in the process of cleaning things up around the house. I will also begin packing things this week. We will be going full time at the end of August. Soon we will also be putting a 'For Sale' sign on the trailer.
Kathy is getting so big! She will be 3 months this weekend. Life can be rather interesting with two little ones, especially when one is a toddler. Harry is always coming up with new things to say that surprise us. He is very busy and talks alot.
I will try to keep this more up to date over the next few weeks since a lot will be going on and then there may be a while where I won't be able to write very much at all.
Please, continue to pray for us. Some things to specifically pray for would be the sale of the trailer and needed items for when we go full time.
~ Tabitha

Survey Trip to Scotland

2010-05-11T20:10:00.003-05:00

Well, I had a fantastic time in Scotland. I flew into London on April 23rd, hopped a train to Berwick Upon Tweed, and rode with a national pastor up to Jedburgh, Scotland. I toured the borders, went through Dundee and Aberdeen, saw the NorthEast coast, and even spent some time in the Inverness/Elgin area. I left knowing that Scotland is the place which God has called me to. Praise the Lord! Enjoy the pictures! Don

Loch Ness

Gardenstown

Pennan

Jedburgh Castle

William Wallace Monument

April

2010-05-07T14:37:00.005-05:00

April was such a busy month for us! It seems like since Kathy was born we have had one thing right after another going on. Don was scheduled to leave for Scotland on April 19. His flight was canceled when a volcano erupted in Iceland causing the airspace over Europe to be obscured. He was able to get another flight on Thursday. There was one seat available. Instead of going into Edinburgh he would be flying into London. He then had to book a train that would take him up into Scotland. We were a little disappointed about his trip being cut a few days short.
My mom and Hannah weren't able to come up right away, so it seemed as if our week was not going well.
Kathy had not been doing well. She had developed a lump on her chest, so I had scheduled a doctor's appointment for Wednesday. To make a long story short, she had an abscess and after going to ER to have it drained and other blood tests done, she was going to be admitted to the hospital. She was given IV antibiotics. I had to stay with her and she was in for 48 hours.
I wasn't able to go to the airport with Don. But I was very thankful that he was still at home when this took place.
We left the hospital on Friday and that evening my mom and Hannah arrived. We had a great visit and I decided to return with them to Illinois for a short visit Tuesday, April 27.
Monday, April 26, Kathy turned 1 month old! Already time is going by quickly!
Don was calling me pretty much every day between 2 and 4 pm. It was 8 or 10 pm over there in Scotland. It would have been wonderful to experience this trip together! He was having a good time and I longed to be there with him.
Saturday, May 1, Ivan, Hannah and I headed back up to Minnesota. The kids didn't do too bad on the trip.
Harry and I had a cold and Ivan was very tired from working early so we all went to bed early Saturday and even took naps Sunday afternoon.
I was looking forward to Monday and having Don back home! The trip to and from the airport was uneventful. One of Don's suitcases was on another plane so we didn't get it til the next night.
I am so glad to have him back. We have resumed our normal routine. Kathy is doing well. She's changing so quickly. Harry loves talking to her, but can be a little stinker sometimes!
Now we are getting things moving along as far as setting up meetings and thinking of full time deputation in the near future. Please, pray for us!!! ~ Tabitha
one month old

visiting in Illinois

Harry and Daemien wrestling with Opa

Don in Scotland

She's here!!

2010-04-07T13:58:00.006-05:00

It has been a while since I have posted anything and I guess it's time I did. Things with the pregnancy were going just fine til the last week. Baby had turned back around and was breech. We scheduled a c-section for her due date, the 29th. But little Kathy decided to make an appearance sooner. Born Friday, March 26 at 10:15 pm, she weighed in at 9 lbs 4 oz. Much bigger than I had anticipated. Again, by c-section. Recovery took a little longer this time, but I am finally feeling more like my old self. Kathy has been such a good baby. She only wakes up once or twice during the night. Everyone says she looks like her daddy. Harry thinks she's pretty special and has been a big help. He gets diapers for me, throws them away, tries to quiet her and gives her the pacifier. He's even wanted to hold her. We changed his bed to a toddler bed since I can't lift anything over 10 lbs for a few weeks. Kathy's such a joy and I think she already has her daddy wrapped around her little finger!!

The Bible is the Only Rule of Faith and Practice

2010-03-18T22:33:00.008-05:00

Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines a distinctive as: “That which marks a distinction, or difference.” When it comes to Baptist Distinctives there are several things that make us different from other churches and denominations. The first and foremost distinctive regards the Word of God. As Baptists, we believe that the Bible is the only rule of faith and practice. All you have to do to be a Baptist is to believe and practice the New Testament. We do not draw our doctrines from creeds, or conventions, or traditions, or any other documents of men. That which we believe is found in this book and solely in this book!

I. BAPTISTS BELIEVE THAT THE BIBLE IS GOD’S WORD

A. Baptists Believe that God has Inspired His Word
The word inspiration literally means: "God-breathed." Baptists believe that the words of the Scriptures ARE the Words of God. The Bible isn’t a book that can be set for nought, and discounted as some other writing of men. The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself to mankind.

• (2Pe 1:20-21) “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. (21) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
Note: Even though God used human authors, the words they penned were the Words of God!

1. Baptists Believe that ALL Parts of the Bible Are Inspired – Plenary Inspiration
• (2Ti 3:16-17) “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (17) That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

2. We Believe that the Very Words of the Scripture are Inspired – Verbal Inspiration
Other churches believe that God only inspired the “thoughts” of the scriptures, and not the words. This makes it convenient for them to interpret the “thoughts” so they can believe what they want to believe. The Bible is clear, however, that the Words themselves are inspired.

•(Mat 4:4) “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every WORD that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
Note: That phrase “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” speaks of inspiration. Remember, inspiration means “God-breathed” or spoken by God.

• (Pro 30:5) “Every WORD of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.”

B. Baptists Believe that God has Preserved His Word

Now this doctrine of preservation is important. We know that God inspired His Word, but that doesn’t make any difference if I can’t see it, read it, hold it in my hand. A lot theologians believe that the “original autographs” of the Scriptures were inspired. The problem is, we don’t have those documents any longer. They’ve crumbled into dust because of the type of parchments they were written on. We do have copies of copies of copies, etc… because God has preserved His inspired Word.

• (Psa 12:6-7) “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (7) Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.”

• (Psa 119:89) “For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.”

• (Isa 40:8) “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”

• (Mat 24:35) “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”

• (1Pe 1:23) “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.”

So, as Baptists we believe that the Bible is the Inspired, Preserved Word of God. In other words, there will never be a time in which the word of God will cease to exist. His Word will always be available to us. We have God’s Word today, in the King James Bible. It has been translated without error from the pure, inspired, preserved texts of the Bible.

II. BAPTISTS BELIEVE THAT THE BIBLE IS THE ONLY RULE OF FAITH AND PRACTICE

Since we believe that God has inspired His Word, and preserved it so that we have it with us today – there is no need to go outside of the Bible when it comes to determining the things that we should believe. In other words, we only take our doctrines from the Word of God!

Edward T. Hiscox said this:
“The Bible is a Divine Revelation given of God to men, and is a complete and infallible guide and standard of authority in all matters of religion and morals; whatever it teaches is to be believed, and whatever it commands is to be obeyed; whatever it commends is to be accepted as both right and useful; whatever it condemns is to be avoided as both wrong and hurtful; but what it neither commands nor teaches is not to be imposed on the conscience as of religious obligation.”

• (2Ti 4:1-4) “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; (2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; (4) And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

Note: Timothy is commanded to preach the Word of God, and the Word of God only! Because there was coming a time (the time in which we live now) that people will turn from the truth (the Word of God) and be turned to fables.

• (2Ti 3:16-17) “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (17) That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
Note: The Bible is profitable for doctrine – what we should believe; reproof and correction – what we should not do; and instruction in righteousness – what we should do.

III. BAPTISTS REJECT THE TEACHINGS OF MEN

Since Baptists believe that the Bible is the only rule of faith and practice, that automatically eliminates the teachings of men. They can’t be authoritative, because only the Bible is authoritative in matters of faith and practice. So, we as Baptists reject the teachings of men.

However, the vast majority of denominations are BUILT on the teachings of men. The Catholic church is based on the traditions of the “Church Fathers” and the teachings of their Popes. The Methodist Church is based upon the doctrines of John and Charles Wesley. The Lutheran church on Luther. The Presbyterian church on Calvin, etc…
Note: By the way, didn’t Jesus say He would build His church, not John Calvin, or Luther, etc…? Those churches that claim another founder, other than Christ automatically eliminate themselves from being true churches. But anyway…

Jesus talked about those who held to, and practiced the teachings of men over the commandments of God.

• (Mar 7:6-9) “He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. (7) Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (8) For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. (9) And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.”

Conclusion: Consider the following passage.
• (1Co 2:1-5) “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. (2) For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. (3) And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. (4) And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: (5) That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”

As Baptists, we believe that our faith should not stand in man’s wisdom, or be based on the teachings of men. Our faith can stand in the power of God, only if it is based on the Word of God. Therefore, we reject the teachings of men, and believe that the Bible is the only rule of faith and practice. This belief, our very first Baptist Distinctive, sets us apart from the vast majority of denominations and churches. For that, I am glad to be a Baptist. I hope you are too!

Witnessing With Wisdom

2010-02-20T21:50:00.010-06:00

What would you do if you saw that a building full of people was on fire? Would you quietly say, “You should probably leave now.” No, you would run up to that building and shout “FIRE! Get out!” And people would quickly exit the building. Why would people be so quick to leave that building? Because they’ve all been burned at one time or another, and have seen what fire can do. Everyone’s seen a house burn down, or witnessed a large grass or forest fire. People know that fire can destroy anything in it’s path, including themselves. Just the mention of the word fire is enough to spur people into action, because they’ve seen what fire can do.

There are those who say that we should take this same approach when it comes to witnessing – to loudly and bluntly proclaim, “You’re all going to die and go to hell unless you get saved!” But there’s a problem with this approach.

Everyone knows the effect of fire because they’ve witnessed it first hand at some time or another – they’ve seen what it can do. So, when someone yells, “FIRE!” They respond quickly. The difference here, is that not everyone knows what sin is, or how sin condemns. When we rush in without prelude and warn them of their sin and the coming judgment of hell, they don’t understand what we are telling them. Why? Because they don’t understand that THEY are sinners. They don’t understand that sin is an offense to God. They don’t understand that they will be condemned for their sin. They don’t understand that their sin will take them to hell.

So, you and I must teach them that THEY are sinners; that they have offended a holy God, and will be condemned to eternity in the Lake of Fire. How do we do that? We have to go to the law of God.

I. THE LAW OF GOD POINTS OUT SIN

(Rom 5:20) "Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:"

(Rom 7:7)

"What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."

(Rom 7:13) "Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful."

(1Jn 3:4) "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."

The lost must be know and understand that breaking God's commandments is sin!

II. THE LAW OF GOD CONDEMNS

(Rom 3:19) "Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God."

(Rom 8:2) "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death."

(Jas 2:10) "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."

The lost must understand that, because of their sin, they are already condemned in the eyes of God.

(John 3:18) "He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

Not only are they condemned already, God's wrath already abides on them

(John 3:36) "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."

III. THE LAW OF GOD CANNOT SAVE

(Rom 3:20) "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."

(Rom 3:28) "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law."

(Rom 8:3) "For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh."

(Gal 2:16) "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified."

(Heb 7:19) "For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God."

(Heb 10:1) "For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect."

IV. THE LAW POINTS TO CHRIST

(Gal 3:24) "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith."

When you witness, it is important to know where that person to whom you are witnessing is when it comes to knowledge of God's law. When Christ witnessed to Nicodemus, He took a very direct approach. He said, "Ye must be born again!" (John 3:3,7) Why was he able to do this? Because Nicodemus, being a Pharisee, knew the law! He knew that he had broken God's commandments, so Jesus was able to speak plainly to him. But, when speaking to the woman at the well, Jesus skillfully turned the conversation to spiritual matters. He didn't use the same approach that He used with Nicodemus because this woman needed to understand that she was a sinner and in a need of a Savior.

How can we know where a person is in their spiritual understanding? We have to get to know them! This is where door step evangelism often fails. It assumes that our gospel presentation can be "one-size-fits-all!" But it cannot. Each and every person is at a different level in their understanding of spiritual things. The only way that we can know where they are at spiritually, is to get to know them, and be led of the Holy Spirit. Don't let aggressive "soul-winners" intimidate you into doing things their way. Let the Holy Spirit guide you, and get to know those you feel He would have you witness to.

- Don

(to hear Pastor Don Clough preach this message click on this link: www.ntbt.org/Sermons.htm then select the message entitled "Witnessing with Wisdom")

Ordination and baby update

2010-01-21T14:18:00.005-06:00

The first main event to start off this new year was Don's ordination, January 17. I was thrilled that my parents were able to be there. His sister, Ashley and her family were able to be there, as well as some friends of ours. Also, in attendance was another pastor, Dr. Tottingham. Saturday Don was questioned by the men of the church and Sunday evening the ordination took place.
It is such a blessing to have a husband that is called to the ministry. I know it is going to be a difficult task for him, but also a joyous one. God has truly done a work in both our lives. Laying on of hands - Acts 13:3

Receiving the Certificate of Ordination

Please, continue to pray for us. There are still many things we will be needing and decisions that will need to be made. The next step is his trip to Scotland.
But our next event will be the birth of Kathy in March!!! I had my appointment Monday and had only gained 1 lb in 4 1/2 weeks. I was very happy with that since I had gained 9 lbs in 6 weeks at my last. I lost some of that weight anyways because Monday night I was sick with a stomach flu. Harry was sick the night before that and Don got sick the same time I did. We are all feeling better now. I am so thankful that I never have had morning sickness!!! Anyways, back to the appointment... All is still well. I have about 9 to 10 weeks left; I can hardly believe it!
Til next time!
~Tabitha

The New Year

2010-01-06T13:37:00.003-06:00

Hello all. I have not been writing very much, though much has been happening! We have come into a new year and there are so many things that will be taking place in our life this year, it is hard to imagine it passing by slowly. Harry playing in the snow

Christmas was an interesting time. But we'll get to that in a bit. Our small little family, Don, Harry and I celebrated our Christmas on the Tuesday before. Wednesday was church and Thursday we'd be leaving town. We had a good time. It's so fun to watch a small child open gifts! We also opened the sealed envelope and revealed that we are having a girl!!! I told Don I'd be excited about a boy too. He just smiled and said I wouldn't have been as excited though. Well, he was right:)
We had decided to go to Scott and Ashley's in Sioux Falls, but at the last minute (Wednesday) decided against it and then for it! A big blizzard was supposed to hit. We were expecting a lot of snow! Thursday he calls me from work and tells me there wasn't as much snow as expected, so we would be going after all. He arrived home at 1 and I had everything ready to go. We left town about 1:30pm. The roads weren't too bad for a while. I'm glad we didn't have much further to go after it got dark at 5pm. It was a very fun 1 1/2 days. Harry enjoyed being with his cousins. We did get more snow and it took us much longer to get home on Saturday because of a detour. They had closed I-90 to the Minnesota border. We were in a hurry to get home since Don had to work at 2 and we just did make it! The snow on the way back from Sioux Falls
Now we are in a new year! I celebrated my 25th birthday and look forward to a small party this Saturday!! We started the new year with colds, but hopefully they won't last much longer.
So, what does this new year hold for us? Whatever the Lord wills! Here are a few plans for this year:
January 17th, Don will be ordained. End of March, Kathy will be born. April 19th-May 3rd, Don's survey trip to Scotland. August or September, begin deputation?
This along with birthdays, anniversaries and becoming an aunt again, twice this year! It's going to be a rather exciting year for us! We'll have many decisions to make and with God's help we will make the right ones. Keep us in your prayers!
I will try and keep in touch more!
~ Tabitha taken at Tim and Katie Pol's reception, Jan 3

Just thought I'd write a little

2009-11-25T14:31:00.004-06:00

It has been a long time since I've written anything. I know Don has blogged a bit, but I haven't. So, I thought I'd just catch up on what's been going on around here.
I have been seeing a midwife and am very excited about this pregnancy. The ultrasound went very well. We had decided not to find out, but had a change of heart. We had the technician write down the sex of the baby and seal it in a envelope. We'll open it for Christmas and find out. If it's a boy, it'll be Patrick Denholm; if it's a girl, Katherine Naomi. I have felt more tired this time around, but it's to be expected with an active toddler! The due dates they have given me are March 21, 24 and 29; so I figure the baby will come anytime it's ready!
In October Don turned 27 and we celebrated 4 years of marriage. Hard to believe so much time has already passed. We had Harry stay over at the grandparents Wednesday and Thursday we went to the Mall of America and didn't arrive back til late afternoon. We had a great time, just the two of us.
Don applied for his passport a while back and received it a few weeks ago. He now has his flight all booked for going to Scotland in April. Things are beginning to come together and next fall may see us on the road.
The past few months have been filled with birthday parties, visits, a preaching conference and so much more.
Middle of December I will be giving up my paper route. Though the extra income was welcome and we enjoyed the walking, it would not be a good idea to be 'toddling' around in the snow with a big belly. Also, 40 minute walks 6 days a week and trying to keep up with Harry and other things has a tiring effect!
I'll try to keep a better update. I'm looking forward to tomorrow!!!Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
~ Tabitha
Out on the route

Playing with Carrighan while visiting Tim and Tab Plemmons.

Contact Your Congressman!

2009-11-05T21:12:00.007-06:00

The following is a note I sent to Al Franken, who is one of my Senators here in Minnesota. I did NOT vote for him, but he is now one of my Senators, and I respect the office that he holds. However, I do not care for the positions he holds - especially on the Health Care Debate. Franken is an ardent supporter of the "public option." I am strongly opposed to this position, as are many other Americans. So, I decided it was time to let my Senator know just how opposed I am to the position he has taken on Health Care.

The note reads as follows:

"Dear Senator Franken,

Respectfully, I disagree with your stated position on the Health Care Reform debate. I believe the "public option" would play a major part in the downfall of our country - both in freedom and in the financial arena. Further, I don't believe that this debate has anything to do with the health and well-being of the American people. This has more to do with Political Power-Grabbing. Our government is already too powerful and far-reaching here at home as it is. I believe in the principles of liberty that men and women have fought for and died for for over 230 years!
I choose freedom, and liberty, and yes - the responsibility that comes with those choices. It is not my desire to be cared for "cradle to grave" by my government. I was taught to walk on my own two feet, and by the grace of God, make my OWN way in life. I choose liberty, in all areas of life. I don't believe that my hard work and the sweat of my brow should be used (and abused) for the benefit of others. Sir, I am a charitable man, but I want the right to choose to whom I will be charitable! I have been responsible, and have made my own choices, and have abided by the consequences, good and bad. Others can do the same. Especially if they are not handicapped with this "entitlement mentality" that is so prevalent today.
Anyway you look at it, your position is damaging. It is damaging to this country in that it will bankrupt our economy, and will move power from the American people and place it in the hands of Elitists in Washington. It is damaging to individuals who, instead of working and caring for themselves, are taught more and more to depend upon everyone else -government included.
I have written this in the spirit of liberty and freedom. Sir, if you share this spirit, please do not support "public option".

Signed,
Don Clough"

It's time to get involved, and make your voice be heard. If we don't stand up for freedoms, then we will loose them. Don't let the deaths of those who've defended this country and its freedom be in vain.

Baptist History and Heritage

2009-10-26T18:42:00.002-05:00

Baptist History and Heritage

There is a tendency today to revise history, rather than relate. Whether this is so the historian can make a name for himself, or he has come to erroneous conclusions, or because of some other agenda is not always evident, though I tend to believe the latter scenario. Whatever the reason, such revision is falsehood, and should be unacceptable to all. We even see this revision taking place when it comes to the History and Heritage of our Baptist Churches.

Recently, I was researching Baptist History on the internet. I came across the website of the "Baptist History and Heritage Society." (www.baptisthistory.org) On the website they had an article entitle "Baptist Beginnings." This piqued my curiosity. I began to read through the article, and was quickly upset by what I read. Consider the following quote taken from the website I've mentioned on the history of Baptists:

"Our best historical evidence says that Baptists came into existence in England in the early seventeenth century. They apparently emerged out of the Puritan-Separatist movement in the Church of England. Some of these earnest people read the Bible in their own language, believed it, and sought to live by it. They formed separate congregations which accepted only believers into their membership, and they baptized converts upon their profession of faith. Their opponents nicknamed them "Baptists," and the name stuck."

1. First of all, I would question whether or not this argument has the "best historical evidence." The fact is, this idea that Baptists came out of the Reformation is a relatively new idea. The "best" historians of the previous centuries believed that Baptists had their roots in the first century. Hear what some of these historians from as late as the 19th century have to say.

Prominent Baptists, and Baptist Historians
Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) had this to say: “We believe that the Baptists are the original Christians. We did not commence our existence at the reformation, we were reformers before Luther and Calvin were born; we never came from the Church of Rome, for we were never in it, but we have an unbroken line up to the apostles themselves. We have always existed from the days of Christ, and our principles, sometimes veiled and forgotten, like a river which may travel under ground for a little season, have always had honest and holy adherents. Persecuted alike by Romanists and Protestants of almost every sect, yet there has never existed a Government holding Baptist principles which persecuted others; nor, I believe, any body of Baptists ever held it to be right to put the consciences of others under the control of man. We have ever been ready to suffer, as our martyrologies will prove, but we are not ready to accept any help from the State, to prostitute the purity of the Bride of Christ to any alliance with Government, and we will never make the Church, although the Queen, the despot over the consciences of men.”

J.R. Graves (1820-1893) said this in a foreword to a book he had written on Baptist History: "This little work is dedicated and it's dissemination throughout the denomination committed to every Baptist brother and sister and especially my brethren in the ministry and of the press in America, who love those principles for which our Baptist Fathers for 18 centuries suffered cruel mockings, bloody stripes, imprisonment, and martyrdoms . . ." (emphasis added)

D.B. Ray (1830-1922) said this in the preface of his book “Handbook of Baptist History:” "Baptists have, with one voice denied any connection with the Romish apostasy, and claimed their origin, as a church, from Jesus Christ and the apostles".

Charles B. Stovall, in his book “Baptist History and Succession” says: "It will be seen that the Baptists claim the high antiquity of the commencement of the Christian church. They can trace a succession of those who have believed the same doctrine and administered the same ordinances directly, up to the Apostolic Age."

M.M. Munger wrote in his book “Baptist Churches from Jerusalem to North America:” "The intention of this little work is to show that from the time of Christ, beginning while He was on earth, the church of Christ has not failed to exist down to this present year of 1926. We have chosen this line of history as being the most simple and direct; Jerusalem, Rome, Britain (now Wales), to the North American colonies. . .Baptist church perpetuity is a proven fact."
G.H. Orchard wrote a book on Baptist History entitled: “A Concise History of Baptists from the time of Christ their Founder to the 18th Century.”

Historians From Other Denominations
Stanislaus Hosius(1504-1579) (Roman Catholic, and President of the Council of Trent in 1524) made this statement: "Were it not that the Baptists have been grievously tormented and cut off with the knife during the past twelve hundred years, they would swarm in greater number than all the Reformers."
Note: By his admission alone, the would put the Baptists as far back as 324 A.D. and even further, since this in when the persecution was said to have started.

Johann Lorenz von Mosheim (1693-1755) (a prominent Lutheran historian) wrote: "Before the rise of Luther and Calvin, there lay secreted in almost all of the countries of Europe persons who adhered tenaciously to the principles of modern Dutch Baptists."

John Clark Ridpath (1840-1900) (a Methodist Historian) said: "I should not readily admit that there was a Baptist Church as far back as A.D. 100, although without doubt there were Baptists then, as all Christians were then Baptists."

The name Baptist has not always been used, but the doctrine that true Baptists teach today has always been around and will always be around.

What does the Bible Say?

1. The True New Testament Church Will Always Be Around

“I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18)

"Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." (Ephesians 3:21)

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19,20)

The Bible doesn't teach that true New Testament Churches would fall away and have to be reformed. True New Testament Churches needed no reformation - they remained true to the word of God. Logically then, we still have them around today. We call them Baptist churches. Not all that are called Baptist churches are true New Testament churches. (Satan is, after all a counterfeiter.) But, the majority of those churches that still practice that faith once delivered unto the saints call themselves Baptists.

2. The True Doctrines of the Word of God Were Only Delivered Once

"One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Ephesians 4:5)

"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." (Jude v.3)

Closing
As Baptists, we have a tremendous heritage stemming from Christ and the apostles up to the present day. Baptists should cling tenaciously to their true history – not what modern revisers have thrust upon them!
- Don

A Purposeful Look at "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren - Part 2

2009-10-09T16:52:00.008-05:00

The last post covered some information about the book "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. In that past, we covered 1) The Popularity of the Book, 2) The Purpose of the Book, and 3) The Problems with the Book. (If you have not read that posting, I recommend that you read it before continuing on.)

IT is the job of every Christian to "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (I Thess 5:21) We need to be careful about what kind of spiritual information we are receiving. "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1) Many do not test, or try the spiritual things that they hear, but believe anything and everything. For believers, this should not be the case. "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;" (Ephesians 4:14) Thus, we need to grow and mature to be able to discern what is true and false doctrinally speaking.

HAVING read the book "The Purpose Driven Life" (hereafter PDL) by Rick Warren, and tested it with the scriptures, I would have to conclude, upon solid Biblical evidence, that it is a false and even dangerous book.

IN Part 1, we began covering some of the problems with PDL. As was said in Part 1, PDL quotes from several different versions of the Bible (whichever version is convenient to the point the author intends to make), and quotes doctrinal heretics without disclaiming their heresies. For Part 2, we will take a look at Rick Warren himself.

I. Warren is Ecumenical

A. His Books Appeal to All Denominations
From the back of the “Purpose Driven Life” about Warren, “He also founded the Purpose Driven Movement, a network of tens of thousands of churches from denominations in 160 countries.”

B. He Associates with known heretics

1. John Wimber, Founder of the Vineyard Churches
a. Taught people to seek after miracles
b. A self proclaimed faith healer
Note: He wasn’t real successful though. He admitted, “Not all diseases are equally responsive” to his healing ministry, though he claimed high success for healing headaches and back aches. Both he and his son died of cancer.
c. He Warned Against Testing Everything
(1) He Warned Against Worshipping the Book
(2) He Accused Some of Being “too heavily oriented to the written word.”
d. Wimber emphasized experience over doctrine
He said this during one of his seminars, “It’s evil when you hide behind doctrinal beliefs that curtail and control the work of the Spirit…The church today is committing evil in the name of sound doctrine.” (From “Defense” by David Cloud) He also said this at one of his meetings, “Don’t be alarmed by anything you see…And above all don’t try to rationally evaluate the things you will see…Subjecting the revival to doctrinal tests is the surest way to put out the fire!” He also said, “If my experience topples my theology, then I am giving more credence to my experience than to theology.”
2. Robert Schuller
Listen to this quote:
"And there's Rick Warren, a pastor who today is phenomenal. He came to our institute time after time." And in "Christianity Today," his wife was quoted as saying, "When we came to that institute, we were blown away." How God has blessed him. And today Rick Warren is blessing millions of people." - This was said by Robert Schuller.

Hear another quote from a website article entitled, “Hop Aboard the Handbasket to Hell” Speaking of PDL: “I disliked portions of it, I mostly dismissed my gripes as a response to the shallowness of it all--now I'm seeing more and more that it's not only milk, but much of it is spoiled milk. The more I learn about Rick Warren, the more I find the face of Robert Schuller, head heretic of the Crystal Cathedral (America's most glorious tribute to another gospel). Smith carefully documents how many of Warren's concepts came straight from Schuller, to the point that Schuller probably has grounds to accuse Warren of plagiarism, but he undoubtedly proudly sees Warren as a protege. As Tim Stafford wrote in Christianity Today in 2002: During his last year in seminary, he (Rick Warren) and Kay drove west to visit Robert Schuller's Institute for Church Growth. "We had a very stony ride out to the conference,” she says, because such nontraditional ministry scared her to death. Schuller, though, won them over. “He had a profound influence on Rick,” Kay says. “We were captivated by his positive appeal to nonbelievers. I never looked back.”
a. Robert Schuller Promotes Self Esteem Theology
“To Be Born Again means that we must be changed from a negative to a positive self-image…” (Self-Esteem: the New Reformation pg.68)
b. False Teachings
(1) on Sin
“Sin is any act or thought that robs myself or another human being of his or her self-esteem.” (Self-Esteem: the New Reformation pg.14)
(2) On Hell
“A Person is in Hell when he has lost his self-esteem.” (Self-Esteem: The New Reformation pg. 14,15)
(3) On the Crucifixion
“The Cross Sanctifies the Ego Trip. For the cross protected our Lord’s Perfect Self-Esteem from turning into sinful pride.” (Self-Esteem: the New Reformation pg. 75)
c. Warren Incorporates Much of Schuller’s Teachings in His Book
Note: The back of the book claims that Warren’s work has a “psychological acuity” and it indeed does.
Example: Chapter 20 "Restoring Broken Fellowship"
* HE Says Focus on Feelings, Not Facts
Warren makes the following statement: “Before attempting to solve any disagreement you must listen to people’s feelings. It means pay close attention! Focus on their feelings, not the facts (huh?). Begin with sympathy, not solutions.” (Pg 155)
* What Does the Bible Say?
1) "Tell Him His Fault" (Matthew 18:15-17)
Note: Nothing About Feelings Here!
2) Confess Your Faults (James 5:16; Matthew 5:23,24)
3) He Says, Emphasize Reconciliation Not Resolution
“It is unrealistic to expect everyone to agree about everything. Reconciliation focuses on the relationship, while resolution focuses on the problem.” (Pg 158)
To this we say, there can be no reconciliation with our resolution! If the problem is not resolved, that exists within a relationship of any character or classification, then the relationship cannot be truly reconciled; especially if that problem is of a sin nature.

Warren also associates with…
3. Bill Hybels, and many other false teachers
II. Warren Promotes False Doctrines
A. On Unity
1. Advocates Unity in the so called Universal Invisible Church sense
Note: He Says, “You are responsible to protect the unity…in your church family and among all believers.” And how are we to do this, Mr. Warren?
2. Focus on What we Have in Common, Not Our Differences
“God’s wants unity, not uniformity. We must stay focused on what matters most – learning to love each other as Christ has loved us and fulfilling God’s five purposes (?) for each of us and his church.”
“Conflict is usually a sign that focus has shifted to less important issues, things the Bible calls ‘disputable matters.’”
Well, Mr. Warren, what things are disputable, or indifferent?
“When we focus on personalities, preferences, interpretations, styles, or methods, division always happens.”
Note: Now, I would agree with 3 out of five of those: personalities, preferences, and styles. But do not tell me that method and interpretation are not important! "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)
3. What Does the Bible Say?
a. Scriptural Unity is a Unity of Doctrine (Eph 4:3-6)
b. Scriptural Unity is Within a Local Body/Church (Eph 4:4)
Note: Our responsibility is unity of the local church not all believers.
B. On the Ordinances
1. Baptism
a. In His Book Warren Says baptism is the following
(1) Symbolizes participating in the fellowship of God’s eternal family.
(2) Is a visible reminder of an inward commitment
(3) Should be immediately after conversion
b. On His Church Website, Warren says baptism:
(1) Illustrates Christ’s Burial and Resurrection
(2) Illustrates One’s New Life as a Christian
Note: It’s interesting to notice the doctrinal positions that Warren holds when it comes to his books and when it comes to his church. I’ll point this out a little later. But do you notice a difference already?
c. What Does the Bible Say?
(1) Baptism Is a Local Church Ordinance (Matthew 28:18-20)
(2) Baptism is Required for Church Membership (Acts 2:41,47)
Note: Warren’s congregation holds baptisms monthly at the beach. May we emphasize that this is a public beach. The baptisms are said to be held near lifeguard tower number 12. They encourage women to wear shorts and a T-shirt, and men to wear swimming trunks when they get baptized. Thus all holiness is removed from the sacred ordinance of baptism.
2. The Lord’s Supper
Warren puts forth the question, again from his church website,
a. Who Should Take the Lords Supper? His Answer:
“Only those who are already believers in Jesus Christ.”
b. What Does the Bible Say?
(1) The Lord’s Supper is a Church Ordinance
(2) Consider the following:
i. Jesus Instituted the Ordinance With His Church (Matthew 26:26-28)
ii. Paul’s Directions for Partaking of the Lord’s Supper are Given to the Church at
Corinth (I Cor 11)
Note: Warren’s church allows members to hold communion services in separate little groups if they desire it.
iii. The First Lord's Supper Was Given to the First Church Members
The apostles were the first members of the first local New Testament church. "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." (I Cor 12:28) These apostles were chosen during Christ's earthly ministry. "And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles." (Luke 6:13) These men were the only ones present with Christ for the institution of the Lord's Supper. Judas, who was lost, was sent out before the supper. Thus the Supper was CLOSED to non-believers and non-church members alike.
III. Warren is Two-Faced
As an Example: Is Warren a Fundamentalist?
A. Is he against it? Listen to this:
From The Philadelphia Enquirer: "Warren predicts that fundamentalism, of all varieties, will be 'one of the big enemies of the 21st century.'" Warren: "Muslim fundamentalism, Christian fundamentalism, Jewish fundamentalism, secular fundamentalism - they're all motivated by fear. Fear of each other.”
B. Is he for it? Listen to this from his church website:
“Saddleback Church is unapologetically fundamentalist."
He’s whatever he needs to be at the moment!

Conclusion: You look at an apple with a worm hole, or a bunch of brown spots, and say, “That’s a bad apple.” You don’t bite into it! In the same way, we’ve examined the life of a man who has set himself forward to be a spiritual guide for everyone else. We’ve seen the "worm-holes" and "brown spots." He’s a “bad apple” - a false teacher. Don’t “bite” into his theology. Reject it. “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” (Romans 16:17) God bless you all!

A Purposeful Look at "The Purpose Driven Life" By Rick Warren - Part 1

2009-10-01T21:43:00.007-05:00

Many, if not all who are reading this post, have heard of the book "The Purpose Driven Life" written by Rick Warren. It can be found in Christian bookstores, in public libraries and even such places as Barnes and Noble, or B.Dalton etc… Due to its wide acceptance and popularity, it seemed fit to me, being led of the Holy Spirit, to take some time and read the book and study it side by side with the word of God. Let me say that Warren’s book falls short of the teachings and principles of the Bible. I Thess 5:21 says, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” Having proved this book, I would have to say that I have found it lacking in genuine Scriptural truth. "The Purpose Driven Life" (hereafter PDL) is a book that no Bible-believing Christian should resort to. Consider the following:

I. The Popularity of “The Purpose Driven Life”
To see how popular the book is, we need look no further than the outside of this book.
A. The Front of the Book
1. "#1 New York Times Bestseller"
2. "20 Million Sold Worldwide"
B. The Back of the Book
1. Widely Accepted
Here are some of the quotes from the back of the book:
a. 1st Quote
“Movie stars and political leaders aren’t the only ones who’ve turned this book for spiritual guidance. Millions of people – from NBA players to corporate executives to high school students to prison inmates – meet regularly (millions meet regularly) to discuss The Purpose Drive Life… [Listen to this] The world is on the verge of a spiritual awakening, as people seek fulfillment they don’t get from fast track jobs and can’t buy with gold cards.” – TIME
b. 2nd Quote:
“The bestselling book in the world for 2003 and 2004, and the bestselling non-fiction hardback in history.” – Publishers Weekly
* 2 Questions:
i. Have Movies Stars Suddenly Drawn Closer to God?
ii. If Millions of People Have Found the Purpose for Their Life Following the Path that This Book Lays Out, then Why Have We Not Seen a Change in the Spiritual Environment of Our Nation? If 20 Million + people get serious about serving God, things would change for our nation!
Note: It is not my intention to condemn a person for being successful, or writing a successful book. But if all the claims of Warren’s book were true, and his direction was accurate, and all of these people who’ve bought into his theories are truly seeking God’s purpose for their life then this world would be a different place, and it is not.
C. What The Bible Says
1. Gain does not equal godliness.
"Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself." (I Timothy 6:5)
2. And Popularity does not equal spirituality.
"Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets." (Luke 6:26)
3. The World Hates the Light of God’s Word
"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." (John 3:19)
D. Why Is The Book So Popular
1. Consider this Quote:
“Readers delving into this phenomenally successful best seller find advice steeped in the Bible but written in a psychological acuity that speaks to believers and non-believers alike.” – The Arizona Republic
2. In other words, it is worldly, that is why the world can receive it.
"If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." (John 15:19)

II. The Purpose of the Purpose Driven Life
* To Know God’s Purpose For Your Life
A. Purpose Statement: This book “will enable you to discover the answer to life’s most important question: What on earth am I here for? By the end of the journey you will know God’s purpose for your life.” Pg 9
B. To guide through a “40 day spiritual journey” in which the above purpose statement is said to be achieved. “The next 40 days will transform your life.” Pg 10
Note: Warren makes a bogus, and almost conceited claim about his book: “Before you were born, God planned this moment in your life. It is no accident that you are holding this book. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live…” (PDL Dedication)

THINK!!! Now if this is true, then God also ordained that I would read this book and warn you of its errors!

III. The Problems With the Purpose Driven Life
A. All the Bible Versions
Warren claims to have quoted nearly 1,000 verses. (Appendix 3: Why Use So Many Translations? Pg 325)
1. What Versions?
a. The AMP – The Amplified Bible
b. CEV – Contemporary English Version
c. GWT – God’s Word Translation
d. KJV – King James Version
- Quoted only 16 times.
Note: Using the true word of God would have destroyed his theories.
e. LB – The Living Bible
f. MSG – The Message
g. NAB – The New American Bible
h. NASB – The New American Standard Bible
i. NCV – The New Century Version
j. NIV – New International Version
- Quoted Over 100 times.
k. NJB – New Jerusalem Bible
l. NLT – The New Living Translation
m. NRSV – The New Revised Standard Version
n. Ph – New Testament in Modern English
o. TEV – Today’s English Version
-Quoted At Least 76 times.
2. WhyDoes He Use All These Translations?
Happily, for us, Warren has an appendix which he has called, “Why Use So Many Translations?” Well, that saves us from having to guess.
a. He Claims that No One Version is Adequate
“First, no matter how wonderful a translation is, it has limitations.” Appendix 3: Why Use So Many Translations? Pg 325
Note: The KJV is adequate! God’s Word in English. Warren quotes from the KJV only 16 times, but over a hundred times from the NIV. He claims to use “nearly a thousand quotes from scripture.” (Appendix 3: Who Use So Many Translations? Pg 325)
b. He Says that Familiar Translations Become Rote, Paraphrases Are Necessary
“Second…we often miss the full impact of Bible verses, not because of poor translating, but simply because they have become so familiar. Therefore I have deliberately used paraphrases in order to help you see God’s truth in new, fresh ways.”
* So, he is saying that this Bible has lost its power.
Note: He claims that his paraphrases, or those of others, will enlighten more than the very words of God.
3. The References He Uses Are Obscure
*Many of the verses given in the book from different versions are so changed and twisted to be almost unrecognizable.
a. Example: Romans 8:6: "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
From "The Message": “Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life.”
b. Example: Matt 16:25: "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."
From "The Message": “Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self.”
c. Example: Col 1:16: "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:"
From "The Message": “Everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him.”
Note: This destroys the testimony of the Deity of Christ. It removes the fact that He created all things in heaven and in earth FOR Himself.
d. Example: I Tim 3:15: "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."
From "God’s Word Translation": “God’s family is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.”
Note: Obviously, this verse is meant to lend more credibility to the teaching of the universal church by equating the body, or church, with the family of God.
e. Warren Picks and Chooses
In order to make a point, Warren seems to pick whatever translation best suits his purpose. In other words, he wants to make the Bible (which is a somewhat nebulous term nowadays – which Bible?) say what he wants it to say. That is shady dealing. Many “Christian” authors do this.
H. All the Quotes
Warren quotes many well-known religious leaders in his book. Many of whom are out and out heretics when you compare what they believed to the Bible. But Warren does not warn the reader of their false teachings, but simply quotes them as if they were the models for Christian living.
1. James Dobson
a. Mixes Christian Principles with Psychology (With more emphasis on psychology)
b. Compromises with the World
- Focus on the Family Radio ministry –Little Bible is used
2. Martin Luther
a. Admittedly, He Did Profess to Believe in Salvation by Faith in Christ
b. But, He believed in infant baptism
c. Believed in the Priesthood
d. Implemented a form of the Catholic Mass – Transubstantiation
e. Persecuted True Believers
“The Lutherans bitterly persecuted and tormented the Anabaptists and other non-Lutherans in many places. Tens of thousands of humble Bible believers were put to death by these Protestants for the simple reason that they refused to accept their false state church and their unscriptural infant baptism and other errors.”
(from “Way of Life Encyclopedia:” ‘Lutheran’ by David Clough Page 357)
3. C.S. Lewis (From “Defense” by David Cloud Page 440)
a. Believed in Purgatory
b. Confessed Sins to a Priest
c. Believed That there is Salvation in Pagan Religions
d. Rejected the Doctrine of bodily resurrection of Christ
e. Denied the Substitutionary atonement of Christ
f. He believed in theistic evolution
g. Denied that hell is eternal, and fiery
4. Mother Theresa
a. A Staunch Catholic
b. Was a Universalist
5. And Many More...
6. What Does the Bible Say?
a. A Good Man of God Warns The Sheep To Stay Away From Heretics, He Doesn’t Promote Them!
"For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock." (Acts 20:29)
b. A Good Church Member Avoids Those Who Promote False Teachings
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them." (Romans 16:17)
"Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us." (2 Thessalonians 3:6)

Conclusion: Having many more things to write, I conclude this edition of a Purposeful Look at PDL by urging every believer to go to the scriptures, and to the house of God - the Local, New Testament Church to find out what the word of God says. You don't need a New York Times Best Seller to tell you what God wants from your life. Listen to the preaching of the Word of God (KJV 1611) from a faithful man of God in a New Testament Baptist Church. Then be like the Bereans, and go home and study the Bible for yourself. Until next time...