Cooperation is the heart of Baptist missions. Churches associate so they can help one another, ministering in ways beyond those of a single congregation. In the GTBN strategy, cooperation is the “N” in our PLAN, NETWORKING.
Much of this cooperation develops through one or more congregations with a vision, who then invite others to join them. The recently competed Beast Feast comes to mind. But often the Lord raises opportunities that require “all hands on deck.” These are ministry needs He places before us all, for which every congregation holds a stake.
The upcoming Bill Glass Behind the Walls event, October 1st, addresses one such need. Within the mission field we share are three state corrections institutions, a federal penitentiary, and several county facilities. The state units alone comprise a community of more than 9,500 offenders and about 1,500 personnel. While hundreds go into the units each year presenting the gospel, few do so with the focus on life-long disciple making as we do. The opportunity to not only present the gospel, but to foster a disciple making movement among offenders and staff is one I hope you will embrace.
Join us! We’re asking your commitment for Friday evening, Sept. 30, for prayer, preparation and equipping, and Saturday, Oct. 1, the day we will enter the units. Brandon Cochran, South Central Regional Director for Bill Glass Behind the Walls, expects us to wrap up the day by 3 PM.
What can you do now? First, visit the Bill Glass website and create an account. There is no obligation in this. It simply sets you into the system so that you remain updated as we approach October. As soon as the local steering team is complete, registration for our local event will open.
Second, you can pray. Pray for laborers. Pray for the Lord’s provision. Pray that Christians who share the gospel beside us gain confidence for their witness back home. And pray this effort brings great honor and glory to our Lord.
Third, lock in the dates, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1! Big church or small, keep these dates a priority.
And, of course, watch for updates as October approaches.
I hope to see you there. In the meantime, consider what a gift for the Savior it will be as we serve together with the gospel!
Blessings,
Bro. Jim