Mark 12:4-44

Once in a while, Jesus would use someone as a public example.  For example, He affirmed the centurion for his faith, admonished the Pharisees for their pride, and commended a poor widow for her generosity.

One day Jesus spotted a destitute woman in the temple.  Although she had almost nothing, she put two small coins into the treasury; Jesus singled her out and lauded her example.  He even favorably compared her to the rich who gave out of their surplus.  God considered her gift nobler than theirs!

Jesus used a strategy called “bell sheep.”  When you want to encourage certain behavior, find someone who is doing what you want, and call attention to it.  Affirm it.  Like a shepherd hanging a bell around the neck of the sheep he wants the flock to follow, encourage others to watch the example of the one doing right.  Visual sermons yield far better results than verbal ones.


From the John Maxwell
Leadership Bible

On January 14, 1940, O. R. Dulaney and Odelle Nanney were married.  Our great God has blessed this church deacon and school teacher over 7 decades.   In turn, this lovely couple has blessed First Baptist Church and the good folks of Mantachie and Itawamba County.

In a society where we see so many failed marriages and homes, it is a spiritual delight to openly congratulate this fine and Godly couple.

“Those whom God hath joined together, let no man put asunder!”

Congratulations and prayers go out to Rev. Richey Hester and his wife Renae on his surrendering to preach God’s Word.  Richey and Renae have one son Reed, age 7.

First Baptist Church will license Bro. Richey Sunday morning January 17.  He will preach that night and will also preach Sunday morning March 7th in our Kids 4 Truth Sunday A.M. services.  We are very proud of this lovely couple.

Since the year 2000, First Baptist has had five men surrender to the gospel call of God.  They are:  Rev. Tracy McMillan, Rev. Tim Holsonback, Rev. Nick Lientz, Rev. Trent Thompson, and Bro. Richey.  I urge each reader of this newsletter to pray for these Godly men and their families.  Our God has honored this church and pastors by making these calls.  Jeremiah 1:5!