The Hope

New Life!

2011-03-31T10:29:00.002-04:00

There are so many dead things around us and so many others that are dying. We are victimized by so many signs of death and their impact upon the way we live. While we know that death is one of the surest facts of life, there is a need for us to dispose of dead stuff as soon as we can. However, more and more of us are holding on to things that are no longer viable and alive. Life brings with it a certain amount of adventure and excitement. Life is loaded with awe and intrigue. Life offers us chance after chance to experience the fresh and dynamic. It should be our goal to experience life like never before. If you are one of those who have held on to something that has long since died, or even some non-productive habit or activity, or failed strategy; now is the time for you to let go of the dead stuff and take hold on the new life that the resurrection of Christ offers. Wow! What a wonderful time to release what isn't working for something that holds more promise. This is an excellent season for evaluating everything about ourselves and making changes as necessary. New Life in Jesus Christ means that death should not dominate us. We can begin by getting rid of dead things and embracing new possibilities. Thank You Jesus for the New Life that comes to us by faith in You. Amen. Pastor E.L. Branch

Fresh Start

2011-02-19T21:03:00.003-05:00

Every year--every day provides us with opportunities for fresh starts. By the grace of God we are given chance after chance to begin again. That's a blessing that we cannot ignore. Because we are prone to make mistakes and to suffer failures, we have to take advantage of every opportunity to be renewed and restored. We are the people we are because of grace and fresh starts. It is when we ignore our chances to start over that we get bogged down in our past and become stunted in our growth. The Bible teaches that grace is renewed day by day.

Our fresh start gives us a chance for new directives and brand new goals. Have you set your goals yet? Some would like to earn a degree; others would like to lose weight or begin exercising. There are some who would love to travel the world and yet others who would like to spend more time with family or friends. Whatever your goals, you can celebrate the fact that God will work with you right where you are to take you to where you should be. God is available to us all and will grant us grace to realize our hopes and dreams.

This word is my encouragement to you to keep believing God, and hold to the truth of God's word. God looks beyond our faults and failures and gives us the strength and authority to achieve our goals to the glory of God. If you have failed, and we all have; if you feel weak, and we all do sometimes; just know that God is your strength and salvation. It matters not what others may think of you or say about you, you are God's child--you are God's child!

Therefore, live with your head up and your heart full of confidence. We are on our way to the next level and God is getting us ready for something better than what we are experiencing right now. Look around and see if there are open doors and new opportunities within reach to you. Look and see what channels and avenues are open to you. Therein lies your chance for a fresh start. You may not need to relocate to a new city or state. You don't have to launch a new career. Your answer may not be in finding a husband or wife. A divorce may not be the thing to set you free. God's answer for your life just may come from renewed grace right where you are.

Blessings and Peace, E.L. Branch

It's Fall. Again!

2010-09-22T11:14:00.003-04:00

The seasons of the year are vibrant reminders of just how fast time flies. In Michigan, we get all the seasons. Sometimes we seem to get them all in one week! However, the Summer warmth changes into a brisk Fall with changing leaves and clear night skies. Oh, the splendor of God! With the change of seasons come the changes in our commitment to worship. Numbers of us have enjoyed vacations and have taken breaks from our spiritual obligations. We have traveled, spent time with family and friends, and we have otherwise enjoyed time off from usual activities.

Well, the time has come for us to get back in the swing of things. Our children are back in school, colleges are moving fast forward and business is returning to its normal flow. It signals a call for you and I to renew our commitments to God and ministry. If you took a break from your duties at church or got out of step with your attendance at worship, your church needs you to return to the front line of duty and responsibility. You are loved and valued by your church family and we cannot be at our best without you!

The various ministries of our church provides opportunity for every member of the family to use their gifts in ministry. It is my prayer that you are involved in some area of ministry that challenges you to be all that God called you to be. Our ministries also allow for small group activities and pastoral care that closes the gap, making everyone significant to the ministry. Remember, we are all in this together. The more your church means to you, the more you will mean to your church!

We are looking forward to seeing you in worship every Sunday! The family is incomplete without you. We promise a powerful and dynamic worship experience with warm fellowship and a relevant word from the Lord. Here at the Hope, you will experience a move of God through the music ministry and worship arts. With several options for worship, don't miss your chance to connect with heaven in a meaningful way each week. So, plan now for this Sunday, invite someone to be your guest, and let's worship the God of our salvation.

Peace, E.L. Branch

Harvest of Souls

2010-09-13T20:52:00.002-04:00

Back to Church Sunday was phenomenal! We experienced a mighty move of God at the Hope. There was an overflow of guests, the attendance was 400 above the average. More than 50 people responded to the invitation to discipleship with several of them being candidates for baptism. We accept the challenge to care for the spiritual lives of God's people and will do our absolute best at building up believers for the great work of ministry. We can never take it lightly when God gives the increase.

There have been more than 400 new members added to our family of faith this year! That's a great harvest of souls. I keep telling you that God is up to something! I'm humbled as a pastor/teacher, and I recognize the awesome responsibility that is ours as a result of God's blessings. We are praying that God will continue to use us as instruments of justice and peace for the advancement of the kingdom of God.

Pastor E.L. Branch

Back to Church

2010-08-24T10:40:00.002-04:00

Third New Hope is a metropolitan church. We have members who live all over the Detroit community and the near suburbs. The need for secured parking have continued to increase as the numbers of members grow. God is blessing the ministry with people from every walk of life.
We are diverse and represent a variety of occupations and neighborhoods. We celebrate!

One of the challenges with being a metropolitan church is seeing significant numbers of people dropping out of active ministry. With time we experience the absence of dear members who mean so much to the life of the church. There are times that absence begins with one Sunday, then two, then more...before long a person becomes inactive and allows something else to fill the place in their life that worship once filled.

Whatever the reason, we are actively looking for those who have become inactive, or who for some other reason no longer attends church. We are inviting people Back to Church! What can be more important than an active life of faith and worship? What can help people more than regular fellowship with a community of believers in Jesus Christ?

Join us in reaching out to everyone you can. Let's extend both our hands to those who really need an invitation to return to church. I have started my list, and it's growing! Please start your list of people you know who are no longer attending church. Begin by praying for them and then, when the time is right, extend that invitation for them to come to church with you. Your invitation can make all the difference! Back to Church Sunday, September 12; 8, 10 or 12 noon.

Pastor E.L. Branch

Haiti Relief

2010-02-02T09:36:00.002-05:00

I am amazed to see the move of God through so many compassionate people. We are celebrating the amount of relief funds received for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. Pastor Amos Eugene of the First Haitian Baptist Church and President of the Haitian Baptist Mission spent the weekend with us here in Detroit. He preached at El Bethel, Third New Hope and St. John the Great. Pastor Eugene's messages were pointed and powerful. He challenged us with the story of the Good Samaritan and the parable of the Sheep and Goats. The words of Jesus came alive to us in a brand new way.

Thanks to so many people sacrificing for the cause we were able to contribute more than $30,000.00 to the Haiti Relief effort. The Churches of Kingdom Building Pastors and People International came together to make an impact upon the needs of those suffering, without homes, without medical care and without the basic needs of life. I'm grateful to the pastors and congregations who responded with such compassion. It is because somebody understands that prayer must be accompanied by action that so much tangible love is being poured out.

Thanks also to the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity, local businesses, and caring individuals who made contributions through the First Haitian Baptist Church. The relief effort will continue, and we are reaching out to those who are blessed of God with resources to help. The images we see on television cannot possibly tell the entire story. This tragedy will have lasting effect upon hundreds of thousands of people for years to come.

Pastor Amos Eugene and his team will carry food and medical supplies into Haiti within days. We will also have full accounting of the funds used for the cause. It is a blessing to have long time friends and partners in ministry during such difficult times. Maybe God brought us together for such a time as this. Soon several KBPPI Pastors will be traveling to Haiti with Pastor Eugene. We will keep you informed of every activity in this regard. Meanwhile, continue to be prayerful in seeking God's directions on helping and serving the people of Haiti.

Blessings, Pastor Branch

Helping Haiti

2010-01-25T11:40:00.002-05:00

I cannot help but watch to see how the world will treat the nation of Haiti. I'm really watching because they are a people of color who have traditionally been treated rather cold and bold by America and the rest of the world. According to the news, Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere. That means, we have a country who have sustained a major earthquake with massive loss of life and property, where poverty has already done its damage. It also means that, for the most part, other nations offering a helping hand cannot look for favors in return any time soon.

I'm watching the world but I also have my eye on people in general. I'm pleased that so many folk have a heart for what the people of Haiti are experiencing and many of them have responded with acts of kindness. Even those who have so little are digging deep to be helpful. Churches and other communities of faith are rolling up their sleeves and getting busy helping out. There are always those who search for reasons to refuse helping. They mention the scams that are usually alive and well during efforts like this; as well as the fact that other people are hurting too!

However, our focus should be on responding to the move of God in this situation. Haiti provides us with an opportunity to be the Christians we ought to be. The door is open for us to pray and to help. The needs are great and the suffering is severe. The people of Haiti are our brothers and sisters. From the news reports we can see the innocent eyes and faces of people who are now struggling to put their lives back together again. Support from people like you and me helps to make that possible. We become the instruments of God to bring relief to those who suffer.

Pastor Amos Eugene and the First Haitian Baptist Church have been our partners for years. We have enjoyed a blessed relationship for more than twenty-five years now. I have preached in Port au Prince and Grand River Haiti and made wonderful friends as well. Pastor Eugene also provides leadership to the Haitian Baptist Mission. There he guides the mission team in providing much needed resources to individuals and families from food, to shelter to medical care. I have seen first-hand the positive impact of mission-minded people who care enough to help.

Search your heart and seek the will of God for how you will help in this cause. Be generous and keep the pictures of their pain in mind. No one expected an earthquake in Haiti. None of us knew that we would have to come together to help a country get back to her feet. But, here we are. This is our reality and we must deal with it and do our best to make it through. By the way, while I'm watching the world to see how others will respond, I must respond as if the world is watching me. Blessings!

Pastor E.L. Branch

Fall on Your Knees Prayer & Worship Revival

2009-09-16T16:12:00.006-04:00

Wow, what a first night of revival, My soul cries out! Dr Shakesphere was unbelievable with his powerful prayer for family deliverance, the sancturary was overflowing and the spirit of God was moving throughout the place. There was no way you could have left the same way you came in.

Dr Lance Watson challenged us to always face lifes storms with a YET.
"My Pockets are empty Yet...", "I have health issues Yet...", "I have been in the storm too long Yet...". The "YET" stands for once God steps in there is another side - good health, financial independance, and dancing in the rain in search of a rainbow.

Invite your family, friends and co-workers, as the next two nights God is going to do something in a big way.

guest writer
Al McCann

Lifestyle Stewardship

2009-08-31T14:29:00.002-04:00

We are approaching the first anniversary of our campaign. Wow! It seems like yesterday that we launched out on a mission to raise $3,000,000.00 for the vision of building a community center that will serve our church family and the larger community. Now we are one year in with two years to go. November marks a year for us. I must take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the wonderful people who helped to get us to this point. Charles and Sarah Ford are our champions. Charles and Sarah have leadership to the organizing team for the campaign and led us in receiving commitments from our church members and friends.

We are eternally grateful for the many supporters of the vision who pledged their contributions to the campaign...every person counts and every gift matters! Over the past year we have continued to receive contributions toward our goal. The economic times have taken its toll on the campaign. However, God is faithful. We have maintained a consistency in giving that bespeaks the loyalty and commitment of our family of faith. We are also grateful for the gifts of those who did not make a pledge but contributed to the cause just the same.

Orlando Bogins and Cheryl Benford are giving leadership to our Foundation Team as we move toward our first anniversary. It has been a wonderful year, challenges and all. We are determined to reach our financial goal and to build the community center to the glory of God. This anniversary presents us with an awesome opportunity to make giant leaps of faith as we celebrate what God is doing through us. We encourage every supporter to prayerfully engage in the cause and to make sure that you are current in your giving. We also encourage those who have not yet signed on to the campaign to pledge your support today.

There is no limit to what we can accomplish when we work together as the people of God doing the will of God. When each person does his or her best, it positions us for the miraculous! Remember, Lifestyle Stewardship calls for that which will cost us something. It calls for sacrifice. It calls for commitment. It calls for a change in our lifestyles. We are given rare opportunities to be a part of something so great. You are blessed to partner with God in building a community center as we rebuild a community. Pledge your support today and know that I'm praying for you every day.

Peace, E.L. Branch

National Baptist Congress 2009

2009-06-15T21:24:00.003-04:00

We are excited about hosting the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education in Detroit, June 22-26, 2009! We welcome Dr. William J. Shaw, Dr. R.B. Holmes, and Dr. George Waddles along with the national constituency. It is such a pleasure to have more than 40,000 baptists and friends sharing in the 104th annual session of our Congress. More than 500 classes and workshops will be held during the week and many services of worship as well.

On Monday evening at 6:30 P.M. we will hold the National Musical in Cobo Arena featuring the 500 voice Michigan Baptist Fellowship Choir. Our special musical guest will be recording artist, Donald Lawrence. You don't want to miss this powerful experience of the move of God. Tickets are $10.00 and may be purchased at Third New Hope. The Labor Relations Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, June 22, 12:30 P.M. at the Hotel St. Regis and our national president, Dr. William J. Shaw will deliver the message of the hour.

Our National Dean, Dr. George Waddles will be preaching at Third New Hope at 8:00 A.M. on Sunday, June 21st. National Congress President, Dr. R.B. Holmes will preach the 10:00 A.M. worship service on the same day. We are inviting all of our friends and family to join us for worship as we prepare ourselves for a week of learning and growing with National Baptists. This is a wonderful time for us to celebrate the heritage and history of the Baptist Churches throughout the nation. We are a strong people, loving God and each other!

Metamorphosis

2009-03-26T15:42:00.006-04:00

We are on Day 19 of our Lenten study. Today's lesson deals with transformation. Metamorphosis speaks to the issue of ongoing change in our life. The genesis for change happens on the inside as Paul admonishes us in Romans 12:2. Spiritual renewal causes us to seek and yearn after the things of God. This seeking strengthens us so that as life's pains, trials, suffering and discomfort come our way we can face them with God's grace giving us a new perspective. I would challenge you to hear the words of the hymn writer who wrote "each victory will help you some other to win." Our past victories make us stronger for the challenges of today. Change is near to each of us as we experience God's grace today.

God and the Economy

2009-03-18T10:20:00.002-04:00

I have received so many questions about the economy that it's not funny! People are concerned about all of the upheaval associated with the economic downturn that challenges life as we know it in America. In fact, the world is experiencing a financial maze unlike anything in the last fifty years. China, Japan, Europe and every other country is trying to figure out strategies for making it through tough financial times. We are watching some of the greatest companies in the world as they struggle to survive.

Stimulus packages and Bail out plans are the talk of the day. News reports of financial corruption continue to dominate headlines while average families experience foreclosures and tumbling home equity along with job losses, downsizing, benefit cuts and all the rest. However, behind all of these cold realities there is a voice that asks, "where is God, and what has God to say about what's going on in our economy?"

God is present and active in all of our experiences. We have God's word that we are not abandoned or forsaken. We can celebrate the presence of God in the middle of this season of economic challenge without worry. I was even asked if we are being punished or something of that sort. Well, it's certainly not mine to say if we are being punished or not. However, I can share that if we are, what we are getting is light in comparison to our behaviors. We just may deserve much worse! We are struggling but we are making it. It's tough out here, but God have given us grace to survive.

It is important for us to know that God's word speaks to the whole human struggle, including the economy. God is involved when we hurt and God feels what we feel. The economic downturn that confronts us is our present reality. We must accept that. But, we must also accept the fact that we need to make some real changes in the way we live. Our spending habits must change and we absolutely must honor God with all of our resources. Just in case some of us have forgotten the principles of sowing and reaping, let's remember that seed time and harvest are natural to the plan of life and cannot be taken for granted without negative results.

God wants us to prosper, the Bible tells us so. However, more than our comfort, God is interested in our character. We should pray about what we can change about ourselves to begin a change in our world. It's on us to think again about what we really need, over and against what we think we want. You and I must be the ones to decide to make things better by shifting our attitudes and behaviors for the greater good. The poor position of our economy is not something God is doing to us. God is faithful to see us through it all!

When we pray, let's ask God for strength to change and grace to grow. Let's ask God for patience and discipline so that we can come out of this a better people for the kingdom. In our prayers, we should also ask for forgiveness for our sometimes reckless behaviors which results in waste, and abuse of our resources. Above all else, remember that God's bailout plan is available to us anytime, anywhere. Paul describes it like this in Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your needs, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Hallelujah! Amen.

Pastor Branch

Empowerment Revival

2009-03-03T10:19:00.002-05:00

What a time we had! That's the expression of most people who attended the Empowerment Revival. The feelings of renewal abounded as we reflected upon the experience of last week. It was my prayer, in this season of economic challenge, that God would move in a mighty way to assure us of His love for us and remind us that He is ever-present with us. God heard our prayers and visited us in a powerful way.

Dr. Alvin Bernstine blessed us with the word of God like never before. On Wednesday we were reminded of "The Thirst Factor." Our soul's hunger and thirst for God is like a deer who has been running for his life! It is a thirst that only a relationship with the Living God can quench. Then, on Thursday we were carried to a new dimension as Dr. Bernstine talked about "Empty Vessels and Closed Doors." It was a dynamic message to help the people of God with their economic issues. Pouring into empty vessels becomes a way that we can secure resources for our future, and shutting doors that drain our finances is key to economic stability and growth for individuals and families.

Wow! On Friday we looked into the life of Abraham as he was tested by God to give up what he loved most. "It's Testing Time" was the subject of Dr. Bernstine's sermon of the evening. We were all made aware of how God tests us to verify our loyalty and commitment to Him. Just as Abraham passed the test, we can pass too! We were blessed beyond measure by our time together as we were blessed by the word of God.

The Empowerment Revival was designed to empower us for making an impact in the world. I am always amazed at what God can do! With the real challenges that confront us on a daily basis, we need regular time in the presence of God. Nothing else can substitute for the intimate relationship between us and the true and living God. When we spend time with God we are lifted to brand new levels of life where the stresses of daily existence cannot get us down. We are reminded that we are "more than conquerers."

Minister Darryl Moore lectured each evening of the Empowerment Revival on the book "One Month to Live." We are reading it through the entire Lenten Season. What an awesome
challenge it is to answer the question as to how our lives would change if we only had a month to live. Wow! Empowerment has to be about living life more abundantly. When we are empowered we think and behave in a different way. It is no longer business as usual. "One Month to Live" causes us to think and to pray about ways to enrich our lives for our sakes and for God.

I hope you will continue this journey with us as we take on the future in life and ministry. As we pray together and study together, and work together, I'm trusting God for a flow of miracles that will help us get more and more out of life. We are building the inner lives of God's people for the purpose of changing the world. The call of God is for a changed people who will change the world one person at a time. That's why we are empowered to make an impact!

Pastor E.L. Branch

Growing, Growing, Growing

2009-02-14T12:30:00.003-05:00

When we stop growing we start dying! We should always be growing as long as we are living. It is quite problematic when our growth is stunted by the casual nature of a bad attitude. Sometimes we are hurt in one way or another and we simply give up on bettering ourselves and become satisfied with where we are. It's so easy to stop and to resign from the hustle and bustle of advancement because of the huge price tag that often comes with improving ourselves.

There should reside in our bosoms a burning flame that pushes us forward unrelentingly. We should have goals and dreams that are so compelling that every day is treasured as another opportunity to achieve them. This kind of burning enthusiasm is what kept our fore-parents laboring against the odds. It's what kept Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr. on the front lines of the civil rights movement. It's what pushed President Obama to the highest office in the land. We too should have a fire in our bosoms that won't allow us to be satisfied with status quo.

Although times are tough and the challenges facing us are real, we cannot allow our inner flames to be extinguished. We must be able to look into the future and see ourselves bigger and better! The evidence of our growth should be apparent. To live is to learn and to learn is to grow. Every time we look back over our past and compare it to our present, we should see growth. Are you growing? Are you better now than you were a year ago? Our challenges afford us opportunities to grow. Look at your issues and concerns and see what lessons there are accompanying them. Don't call them problems, call them opportunities. That's what they are, opportunities to grow and to become a better person for yourself, others, and for God.

Pastor E.L. Branch

A New Day

2009-01-16T10:10:00.003-05:00

On the front of the VOICE we have the picture of a young man who says, "I can be president too." It is a symbol of the hope that the election of Barak Obama brings to America and to the world. The entire world will be watching on Tuesday, January 20th as our new president is sworn in. It is one of the most anticipated events in history. God has given us a new year with the arrival of 2009, but now we proudly prepare ourselves for a "new day."

Times have really changed. An African American will live in the White House and celebrations continue around the world. Not only can boys and girls look to a brighter future, but people of every hue can see life itself from a different perspective. That's what hope is. It is the ability to deal with present challenges while believing that you can win--really win! Every now and then there comes along an event that makes hope a reality. We live with so much doubt and so many fears that we rarely see such wide-spread hope as we have seen recently. Every person we speak to brightens up as they talk about president-elect Barak Obama. That's hope.

The inauguration will usher in a new day for America, the world, and you and me. Whether or not you attend the events surrounding the inauguration, everyone of us can celebrate what God is doing among us. Each day reminds us of the promises of God and the possibilities that loom large before us. It is my prayer that the synergy produced by Obama's election will challenge all of us to do everything we can to make our country and our world a better place for all people. It begins with each of us as individuals and spreads to our families, communities, places of worship, and beyond. We all have a responsibility in making strides toward freedom and equality for all of God's children. We all must make a contribution to the betterment of our world and not just wait for someone else to do it all. We are a people of hope, and faith, and power!

Let's pray together for our new president, Barak Obama. Let's pray for his family and for the new administration. Let's pray for the senate and the house of representatives. Let's pray for the people who before now have been left out and those who have been victimized. Let's pray for those who are unemployed or underemployed. Let's pray for the families who struggle to survive, and for those whose future seem so uncertain. And, let us work. Along with our prayers, we must work to make things better. We have the power to improve our world, one step at a time. Let's work as volunteers in our communities to make an impact for justice. Let's work with our president to bring about the changes we hope for. It's a new day!

Pastor E.L. Branch

New Year?

2009-01-05T08:04:00.002-05:00

Will this really be a new year for you? Or, maybe it will be just another "old" year. So many of us are guilty of allowing our years to slip right through our fingers. We do the same thing every time. We make resolutions, only to see them fade away after a few weeks. We make all those promises to ourselves and others, just to see them fail in a short amount of time. Soon, we just stop talking about goals and dreams and plans because we are embarrassed in front of ourselves.

To make this year really "new," we must do something different. We have to get on it and stay on it! Set a few goals, not a long list. Then, start working on them immediately. Look for daily and weekly progress. Achieve short term targets and stay focused. Set the deadline for May or August instead of the end of the year. That will leave you room to make necessary adjustments. And, remember, any goal worth achieving is worth the cost and effort necessary to achieve it.

Numbers of you are joining me for in fasting and praying this week. I'm doing seven days; from Sunday to Sunday. We are drinking plenty liquids but eating no solid foods. And we are praying fervently. Some of you are engaging for shorter periods. However, I'm delighted to know that so many of you recognize the value of prayer and fasting.

Jesus told his disciples that some things will never happen unless people of faith fast and pray. I'm convinced that we have to fast and pray about the tough stuff! We have so many things going on in our society and in our families that if we are not careful, they could get the best of us. Getting this new year started demands that we engage in true spiritual warfare!

The enemy is out to get us and he's serious. He's not just trying to hurt us, He's trying to kill us! The enemy has pulled out his heavy artillery and we're trying to defend ourselves with a flashlight and a flyswatter! It's time we used our secret weapon; prayer and fasting! This way, we will win rather than lose. We will be victors rather than victims. Bless the Lord!

Ephesians 6:10-18 is a wonderful passage to read each day of fasting. Let it bless your spirit as you stand strong for the many great causes around us. I know that each of us have our particular prayer concerns. However, I trust that we also have some in common. I'm praying for our nation and our President-Elect, Barak Obama and his family; our national and local economy; healing and deliverance for those who are wrestling with medical conditions; and I'm praying for our church family, every person!

May God grant us grace in 2009 to be a strong people, focused and committed to all that is right and good.

Pastor E.L. Branch

It's Christmas!

2008-12-17T09:55:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it? It's Christmas--again! Time seems to be flying. There are times of year that makes us tremble because of how fast it seems time moves. It seems like yesterday almost that we were shopping and singing carols and wrapping gifts. But, in reality, it has been a whole year. We are once again at the highest Christian season where we reflect on the coming of our Savior into the world.

It is always a challenge to stay focused on Christ at Christmas. Everything else seems to offer such stiff competition for the top spot. Decorating, shopping, cooking and eating and so much more tend to overshadow the real meaning of the Christmas.

That's why I'm preaching a special series of sermons on the theme: "Images of Christ in Christmas." It is my goal to present the authentic Christ who stands at the heart of Christmas. So many people have viewed Christ from perspectives that are tainted and distorted. These erroneous images have left us with a sad view of the Savior who is so weak that he cannot be the Christ of Scripture.

Jesus Christ is Lord! That should be declared this season and every season. He alone is worthy of praise and honor. To have Christmas without a focus on Christ is an empty experience. No matter how many gifts we give or receive, no matter how many lights we hang or ornaments we display, to miss Christ is to miss Christmas!

What would you offer as a plan to keep Christ at the center of Christmas? What has worked for you? How could your strategy be a blessing to others? There's seemingly a plethora of challenges facing the people of God this time of year. It is my prayer that God will give us strength and power and we commit to God's will for our lives.

Pastor E.L. Branch

Playing Games with God

2008-10-06T09:41:00.003-04:00

Some people really do play games with God. Most won't admit it, and some may not even know that what they are doing is actually a game. The people to whom the prophet Malachi was preaching were guilty of taking God for granted as well as refusing to take God seriously. My concern is that some of us are doing the same thing. We happen to live in a society that seem to treasure games. Every kind of game from sports to gambling draw high stakes and big crowds. People who are good at their particular game are applauded and made quite wealthy. This whole idea of playing games have spilled over into the areas of faith and religion, to the point that many people are playing games with God.

We play games with God when it comes to our commitment to peace and justice. We play games with God in our religious practices and church attendance. We play games with God when it comes to giving. In Malachi 3:8-10 the indictment against the people of God was that they robbed God in tithes and offerings. They then played dumb as if they were innocent of all charges. Did they think that playing dumb would absolve them of their crime against God?

The people of the text found themselves in big trouble. Their trouble was self-manufactured. The curse they were under was of their own making. What's worth celebrating is the fact that even when we dig holes for ourselves, God is gracious to provide us a way out. God was willing to turn things around for His people. They, however, needed to faithfully follow God's plan. It was their failure to faithfully bring their tithes and offerings to God that got them into trouble, so it would take the deliberate and intentional giving of the tithes and offerings to get them out.

Let's cut through the chase. Many of us now are experiencing personal and financial catastrophes because of our disobedience to God's Word on giving. The only way out of our mess is to take God seriously and give our tithes and offerings with grateful hearts! We are responsible for the mess we are in. Our dilemmas are self-manufactured. God is offering us a way out. It's kind of like a season of grace, where you can pay off a debt without penalty. What a good time to begin again honoring God and taking God's Word seriously.

We've played enough games with God. And by the way, every time we play games with God, we lose! Taking God seriously will position us for blessings beyond measure. The Word of God declares that when we bring all the tithes into God's storehouse, God will open the floodgates of heaven to pour out blessings that are so abundant that we won't have enough room to store them. On matters of giving, God isn't playing. We shouldn't be playing either!

Pastor E.L. Branch

The Journey

2008-09-02T09:37:00.002-04:00

One of the greatest challenges to any race is determining who will stay for the entire journey. Races are often abandoned by those who start out with such determination. We are praying for each person every day so that we all will stay the course and complete the journey ahead.

Excitement is building as we prepare for the building of the Community Center. We will see a miracle at work as the face of our community is lifted and the door is opened for new possibilities. The Lifestyle Stewardship Campaign is mounting as we take leaps of faith toward our God-given goals.

I trust that every member of our church family will be meeting in a home in our Spiritual Awareness Gatherings. Our hosts are so gracious to greet you and provide an environment of warmth and welcome. Our 24 hour Prayer Vigil will also bring a special dynamic as each of us choose an hour to meet in the sanctuary for corporate prayer. Wow! I'm expecting a mighty move of God.

In Exodus 25:2 the people of God were instructed to bring an offering. However, no offerings were received until chapter 35. What happened in between those chapters will amaze you. It was a time of preparation. Giving takes preparation--spiritual preparation! When the people brought their gifts after prayerfully preparing themselves, they were asked to stop because they brought more than enough! What a testimony.

We are in our season of preparation. I'm praying hard and strong that every member of our church family is doing his or her part to make the lifestyle changes that will allow them to give a gift that pleases God. I want you to pray this prayer with me. I'm trusting God and I'm trusting the people of God as we join forces to advance the kingdom. Let's keep praying. Let's keep working together to make great things happen for God.

Pastor E.L. Branch

VISION!

2008-08-01T09:31:00.002-04:00

What can be more powerful than a vision from God? It is vision that gives us energy and vitality. Vision helps to define our purpose and gives us clarity of destiny. When God gives a vision God also holds us accountable for properly responding to it. The fitting response to a God-given vision is to position ourselves to fulfill it! That's exactly what we are doing at Third New Hope. We are shifting and organizing ourselves to fulfill the vision God has given us.

We have secured the services of masterful architects and we have partnered with financial strategists to bring to pass the vision of building a Community Center on the acquired property adjacent to our present worship center. Steps are being taken to prepare the hearts of God's people for what God wants us to do. "Where God gives a Vision, God also gives Provision!" I'm believing God for something wonderful and I hope you are too.

Our church is alive and growing. God has given us the opportunity to touch the lives of so many people. In order for us to continue going and growing we must complete the vision to build the Community Center. This will serve as a catalyst for the redevelopment of our community and demonstrate the power of God to transform neighborhoods as well as people! Third New Hope is committed to the Detroit community and our investment makes a strong statement to that effect.

This is our time and our season for carrying out God's vision. I continue to say, "God is up to something!" I really believe that. It becomes the task of every one of us to find our something within the something God is up to. That means all of us joining with God in making great things happen for the kingdom. Whatever you can give, personally, spiritually, financially or otherwise will help to make this vision a reality. Just think about it, you and I, partners with God!

Pastor E.L. Branch

Lifestyle Stewardship Campaign

2008-07-27T17:39:00.007-04:00

"I will NOT offer to GOD that which cost me NOTHING"

So, what does this mean to you?

Seasons!

2008-05-29T09:39:00.003-04:00

Here we are again at the dawning of a new season-Summer! This is my time of year. I like it hot with plenty sunshine and outdoor activities. Summer allows us to see the products of Spring, like the flowers and the trees. Summer brings about all kinds of plans, such as our vacations and time for family. It also affords us a break from school, or other routine obligations. Some people even use it to take a break from God!

Summer is a wonderful gift from God to us and we must be sure to use our summer season prudently. We all should assess our plans and goals for this season to be sure that we have planned with our priorities in the right place. Matthew 6:33 is a constant reminder to keep God first. "Seek first the kingdom and righteousness, and the things we need will be freely given." We will plan our summer activities and vacations, some of which will be away from home. It is important that we remember our responsibilities to God and to our church.

Remember to pray daily. We don't take vacations from prayer! We are taught by Jesus in Luke 18:1 to "always pray and don't grow tired." We should demonstrate a solid life of prayer even when we are traveling away from our usual environments. I have found that early mornings are a great time to pray in order to remain consistent. We must also remember to worship. Some of you will be away from your church home. However, you may be attending church with family or friends in another city. You will see that we have brothers and sisters in Christ all over the country and beyond. No wonder we sing "What a Fellowship."

We must also remember to give. Your financial support is important and needed by your church even when you are away. Be deliberate about giving your tithes and offerings before you leave town or immediately upon your return. If you will miss a Sunday service, please know that your financial gifts belong at your church home. You should feel free to give an offering wherever you may attend. But, you should never negate your responsibility to your church. Your tithes should be given at your home church.

I'm already praying that this will be a wonderfully blessed Summer for you and your family. I'm trusting God to give us safety, peace, prosperity, and divine shelter during the Summer months. For those who will be traveling, I pray God's covering and traveling grace. I'm celebrating with our graduates who have achieved their diplomas and degrees. Many of which will be moving on to new stations in life, colleges, universities and careers. My prayers continue for those who may find this season to be one of challenge. God will grant us grace!

Each season brings its graceful gifts and glorious blessings. May this Summer be just what you need! May God's richest blessing be upon each of you.

Pastor E.L. Branch

It's Spring!

2008-05-02T12:25:00.002-04:00

This is the time of year when we are reminded of God's love in unmistakable ways. The greening of the grass, the budding of trees and the blooming of flowers bespeak God's awesome presence and the dynamic power of transformation. What the landscape transform into rich and vibrant colors as the wonder of Spring unfolds. The refreshing rains will prepare the soil for new life and possibilities. What a wonder!

Just as God brings such transformation to the natural landscape God brings change and transformation into our lives. Is it Springtime for you? Are you experiencing God in a new and exciting way? Are you seeing the wonders of God at work in your life? This is the season for the budding of vision and insight. I am convinced that God wants us to open our hearts, again, in a whole new way to receive from God like never before. This is your season!

Take on something new. Believe God for a stronger and richer relationship of faith and power. Expect that miracle and know that God has already heard and answered your prayer. What is required for us to make a difference is a new outlook and a fresh attitude of spirit. We have to break up the tough soil of frustrations over the past to allow the new buds of hope to flourish. There are things that we must rid ourselves of in order to accept springtime and all that comes with it.

Join me and the numbers of others that are determined to welcome Spring--in season and in spirit. God has something new and exciting for each of us. It is our responsibility to open our hearts to receive the things of God and to do so in the warm spirit of gratitude. Wow! 'm already thankful for what God is doing. So, every time I see a tree budding, a flower blooming, or the grass becoming greener, I will celebrate the power of God to do the same thing in my life and yours. Be wonderfully blessed this season. Pastor E.L. Branch

Prayer, Presence, Gifts, Service

2008-04-07T10:32:00.003-04:00

A few weeks have passed and here we are. The real test of transformation is consistency. Do you know what it means to be consistent? Well, it means mustering up the ability and energy to continue the course. Winners are able to achieve great things because they are consistent in their disciplines. Anything worth doing requires developing and maintaining a pace that proves to be beneficial and keeping it up. We are bound to lose when we are inconsistent. When we start and then stop and then start again and again we lose ground and time, we lose altogether!

In order for us to be winners and to claim our transformation we must be consistent with Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service. It takes bold energy to make it happen, but we don't want the hard work of the past weeks to go in vain. Some of us worked pretty hard at keeping up on our readings and making our group meetings. Some of us put in special time to make sure that we finished well. Some of us sacrificed beyond measure to achieve our transformation, we can't allow all of that to be for nothing!

We may need to strategically revisit the transformation journey. Get your book back out, find the chapters and pages that spoke to your spirit. Refresh yourselves and take a deep breath and keep in the swing of things. Transformation is more than an event, it's a journey. Real transformation is for those who are willing to hang in there for the long haul. We must continue to rehearse the themes of Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service. We must also live them out in our walk of faith.

I thought it might be helpful if some of us share with others of us what we are doing to keep the fire of transformation burning in our hearts. Are you continuing to read your book, or meet with your small group? Are you engaged in regular times of prayer, bible study or worship? How are you making it happen? Again, consistency is the name of the game. I trust that you really want to make the absolute best of your transformation experience. Please know that I'm praying for you every day. Keep in going!

- Pastor E.L. Branch

Many Thanks!

2008-03-28T10:37:00.002-04:00

Now that we have completed the Treasures of the Transformed Life study, we have many people to thank for their help, encouragement and contributions along the way. I have a list so long that I could never complete it in one sitting. However, let's begin. I owe a debt of gratitude to Pastor John Ed Mathison and Pastor John Schmidt for not only providing the faith community with such a wonderful book, but for also showing the interest in personally walking with us on the journey to transformation. Pastor Mathison sent his personal greetings on DVD and Pastor Schmidt provided strong and inspirational teaching during our Transformation Revival.

I also want to thank Pastor Alvin Bernstine who blessed our souls during the revival and carried us to new levels of life and ministry. We will never forget the powerful expressions of God's Spirit during the Transformation Revival! Let me say thanks as well to our Minister of Christian Education, Darryl Moore, who caught the vision immediately and positioned himself to lead the campaign along with so many volunteers from among our church family. A big "thank you" goes to all of our small group leaders. Without you the campaign would have suffered a void that could not be filled any other way. You blessed so many people with your dedication and service.

Thanks to every person who committed themselves to read with us. Thanks to those who opened their homes for group meetings and those who traveled distances to attend. I am also thankful for those of you who shared your testimonies with us and encouraged others along the way. I'm also grateful for everyone who filled out a Commitment Card and those who dedicated themselves to Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service. Every bit of involvement in this campaign made the difference in making it just what we needed as a family of faith.

I could go on and on with gratitude but I want to encourage others to say thanks as well. Maybe you want to thank someone special for their words, or smile, or prayers, or something they did to make the journey to transformation special to you. Maybe they purchased your book as a gift, or maybe they served as your prayer partner the whole time through. You know who it is that made the difference for you; how about sharing that with others. By the way, let me say thanks to Cheryl for the blogspot and also to you who have logged on and blessed us with your comments. We are committed to keeping it going, so stay tuned and tell others as well.

Be powerfully blessed! - Pastor E.L. Branch

Where Do We Go From Here?

2008-03-19T18:54:00.002-04:00

Can you imagine how far we have come? We started this series several weeks ago and it's almost over! Wow that was fast. Look at what you have accomplished: you have read an entire book from cover to cover, you have met with your small group each week to share what you've learned, you have engaged in prayer and Bible study, and you have worshiped with your family of faith each Sunday. For some, it may not seem like very much, but for others it's quite an accomplishment. Congratulations!

Treasures of the Transformed Life offered us an opportunity to be changed from the inside out. We have now developed new habits of reading daily, praying for others and giving to God through our Church. Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service have in fact become a part of us. It has made us better, stronger and more faithful to the things of God. Transformation is about shifting from old patterns of behavior to new, more productive behaviors that bring us closer and closer to God. As we grow in our desire to become like Jesus Christ and to live it out through sacrificial service, the kingdom is blessed through our faithfulness and commitment.

So, where do we go from here? We most certainly cannot allow what we have experienced over this Lenten season to be in vain. True transformation means that what we have learned must now be demonstrated through our lifestyles. I suggest several things: 1. We must keep reading. We must commit ourselves to reading inspirational books on a regular basis. Use the same time you used over these past few weeks to read the book of your choice. If you don't have one in mind, we can make some suggestions. 2. We must also remain committed to meeting with small groups of fellow believers for the purpose of reflecting upon the word of God and sharing your faith journey. It will bless you and others. 3. We should maintain a life of prayer. Never wait until there is a crisis to pray. Pray regularly! And 4. Always be willing to sacrifice for what you believe in. Giving to God through tithes and offerings is a sure way to grow yourself spiritually. Giving also helps the work of ministry to expand, and it allows for so many avenues of service to be born among us.

Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service should become our motto, our commitment, and our personal promise. We are still on a journey. The destination is to our rightful place in God. That's my goal and I hope its your goal also. -Pastor Branch

"Finishing Well"

2008-03-12T19:22:00.005-04:00

Most of us are good at starting things, but how good are you at finishing? As we continue along our journey to transformed lives it is so important that we avoid distractions and simply refuse to get weary. We are often tempted to give up or give in and quit along the way to our rightful place in God. We started this journey with energy and enthusiasm. For some, the energy has increased and their engines are running at full capacity. Yet, for others there is a sense of apathy and disconnect that causes that "giving up" kind of feeling. All of this reading and meeting and praying and stuff is causing some of us to get tired! Are you one of those who feel this way?

Anything worth doing is worth the time and effort that it takes to get it done! I think transformation is worth it. How about you? There is a story in the Bible found in Luke 14:28-29 where Jesus talks of one who begins building a tower without first counting the cost. The result is that the tower is left incomplete with other passing by, looking and laughing because someone started something that they did not possess the capacity to complete. Wow! What an indictment. Jesus challenges us to not only be good at starting things, but to be sure that we are finishers as well.

It's just a few more days to go for us to finish this campaign. I trust that you are one of those who started with us and will also finish with us. Far too many of us have a trail of incomplete projects or commitments that we have left behind us. Even promises we have made to ourselves are still incomplete. Diets, exercises, books, even the closet we started to clean weeks ago is still left incomplete. The question is not "can you start?" the question is "can you finish?" Better yet, can you finish well?

Those who win races or other athletic contests and walk away with trophies are those who finish. No matter how strong we start, the trophy goes to finishers! It is my prayer that we will remain strong and not be tricked into stopping before we reach the finish line. In order for us to get all out of this experience that God has for us, we must finish. It is the finishers who will be able to celebrate the power of God to transform lives. The finishers will be able to take their rightful place in God. It is the finishers who will be able to look back on their journey and see where God has brought them from.

Luke 14:28-29 highlights the embarrassment in starting but not finishing. It takes commitment to finish. It takes courage, faith and the help of the Holy Spirit to finish. If you are struggling to get it done, if temptations are all around you giving you every reason to quit, I challenge you to pray even harder and stay focused. We are called of God to be finishers! Jesus is a finisher and He is with us in our seasons of challenge to help us finish too. -Pastor Branch

In Just Six Weeks!

2008-03-06T05:29:00.003-05:00

I have challenged the people of God on numerous occasions to take the "Six-Week" challenge. It's not a game, nor is it magic. It's a learning and growing experience. The "Six-Week" challenge goes like this: Whatever you want to do regularly as a part of your lifestyle, make a commitment to do it for six weeks without fail and watch it become a part of you. It's just that simple. Make yourself do it without excuse for six weeks and you will miss it if you don't do it.

The Lenten Season provides us with a great opportunity to break some bad habits and replace them with new, good behaviors--in just over six weeks! Treasures of the Transformed Life affords us the privilege of reshaping both our thinking and our actions. Right now we are in the middle of the study on "Giving." What profound challenges are presented to us by John Ed Mathison as he expounds upon giving lovingly, joyfully and sacrificially, that's what king David did. It also challenges us as the people of God to give in ways that glorify God, knowing that we have God's word that we too will be blessed.

Do you want to begin exercising, reading, or learning to play an instrument? Do you want to start waking up a bit earlier each morning? Do you want to start being on time for your appointments instead of always being late? You can make it happen if you force yourself to do it for just six weeks. But also, you can become more honest or you can get that project done that you've been putting off, you can even become a tither if you take the "Six Week" challenge. What do you want to improve about yourself? Go ahead, give it a try! -Pastor Branch

Revival!

2008-03-01T07:23:00.003-05:00

We have experienced an extremely powerful three days during the Transformation Revival. The teaching of Pastor John Schmidt and the preaching of Pastor Alvin Bernstine was simply beyond measure. The testimonies flowing from the people of God was a true reflection of the impact of this series of services. Every since we began this campaign we have seen God moving! The daily readings along with the small group meetings and Wednesday sessions have made for a journey that truly transforms lives. I hope you are experiencing change. Are you?

Pastor Schmidt skillfully emphasized the key elements of this study: Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service. I hope we can all repeat them with ease and not only say them but live them out! It is so important that we are praying regularly. This means not simply praying in a crisis or when asked to do so, but living a life of prayer. How is your prayer life? Is it healthy? I certainly hope you will take advantage of this season of transformation to make the most of your prayer life.

Then we were taught the importance of Presence. Being there is key to making meaningful things happen. The people of God should be together for worship, fellowship and work. Your presence for church services is vital to your growth in faith and practice. (We all have hand-outs from each lesson shared by Pastor Schmidt. I hope we will refer to them often as we reflect on what we have received.) We must be present in mind and body. That is to say that our focus and energy must also be where our bodies are. God will not mark us present if our minds are elsewhere!

On Friday the emphasis was on Gifts. We heard a powerful perspective on giving! When our gifts are motivated by love it makes our giving more purposeful and dynamic. God loved us so much that he "gave," and our love for God should prompt our giving. I hope you got that! Throughout the teachings of the week, we heard the importance of Service. Every person has a God-appointed place to serve within the body of Christ. Through prayer and the encouragement of more mature believers we can all come to know our place in the family of God. Every person's skills and abilities are vital to the good health of the entire body. We must emphasize faithfulness as another key element to making it all work. It is my prayer that the people of God will grow in faithfulness.

Now, to the subject of "Trees." Pastor Bernstine blew us away each evening and each message had something to do with trees. The first tree was an unproductive tree that was given grace through which Pastor Bernstine declared "A Great Chance for a Great Change." The second tree was a fig tree that failed to produce and was cursed by Jesus because of the lack of productivity. It took up needed space, extracted nutrients from the soil, and received sunshine and care without producing any fruit. The next tree was used to make bitter waters sweet. Pastor Bernstine reminded us of the fact that moving with God requires us to take the bitter with the sweet. Wow! What great preaching.

This revival was a special blessing to me and I'm sure you were blessed as well. What message spoke to your spirit the strongest? What did you hear God saying to you through the lessons and the sermons presented by these men of God? Did the ministry of our Psalmist: Bill Moss, Jr. speak to you in any special way. Let us hear from you... Pastor E.L. Branch

Climate of Expectation

2008-02-29T08:07:00.005-05:00

God has expectations of us. Does this surprise you? It shouldn't. In the letter to the Hebrews we find this word of instruction, "For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." (Ephesians 2:10) God has been planning to use your gifts, talents, passions, and experiences since the foundation of the world. He expects much from us because he has given us much. (Luke 12:48)

The problem for most of us is that we don't realize who we are in Christ Jesus so we don't expect much from ourselves or from other Christians. We accept casual attendance, weak prayers, selfish attitudes and shallow giving because we set our sites too low. We mistakenly think that getting saved is all that the Christian life is about when getting saved is only the beginning of all that God has in store for us. We fail to realize what we have been saved to do. God's plan for us from long ago was not for us to live like everyone else in our culture and occasionally go to church. He has strategically positioned us to be his ambassadors to a lost and hurting world.

At my church we truly believe that God has high expectations of us. They are realistic because He promises to empower us and equip us for the tasks He assigns. As a result, we have created a climate of expectation within our church family. We expect each other to pray for our church, our city, and our world. We expect each other to attend worship, Bible study, and fellowship events. We expect each other to give financially to the work God has given us to accomplish and we expect each other to serve where God has gifted us.

I believe God wants every church to create a climate of expectation for its staff and membership. I believe He has much in store for Third New Hope Baptist. Let's not set our sites too low. Rather, let's expect God to do amazing things in and through us as we commit our lives to him. Thanks for the hospitality and kindness you have shown me. Pastor John Schmidt

At

acbernstine

2008-02-28T14:01:00.003-05:00

I am amazed at the relevance of Third New Hope and the visionary capacity of Pastor Branch. The vision of emphasizing transformation churchwide and employing the aid of a fascinating book, Treasures of a Transformed Life, is incredible.

Pastor Smith's emphases on Presence, Prayer, Gifts, and Service is revolutionary for today's church. It is strangely comparable to the incredible campaign being led by Barak Obama, where all kinds of people are being called upon to create a movement of political empowerment, and in this instance Christian empowerment.

The illustration of "something catching our eye" speaks profoundly to John Ed Matthison's observation that "many of us have become complacent, maybe even bored, with the idea of living a life that glorifies God." I am eager to employ the impact of this experience in my own place of service, the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church.

May God be praised for the wonderful experience of the Transformation Revival. A. C. Bernstine

Four Simple Commitments

2008-02-28T09:12:00.004-05:00

I am so thrilled to be with you during your Transformation Revival this week. I am here to share with you four simple commitments that can transform any church if we are willing to make them.

First, we need to commit to pray for our church and the church leadership. How will we know where God is leading us if we don't ask Him for direction? Why would we want to try to accomplish God's work in our own strength and our own timing without consulting Him?

Second, we must commit to being present at worship, Bible study, and fellowship events. We need each other. God is our Father and we are His family on earth. Healthy families meet together regularly-so must we.

Third, We must give to the work of the church. God has provided us with much and He expects us to manage our resources well by investing in the work of His kingdom. He promises to take care of everything else we need if we put His agenda ahead of our own.

Fourth, we must serve. A church is like a body and it needs all of its parts to work together in order to function properly. God has called and equipped ALL of us to serve in His church. When we serve we grow more like Jesus and when we serve together we can accomplish much.

At my church we ask everyone who joins our fellowship to commit of their prayers, presence, gifts, and service. Each year we ask our existing members to recommit themselves in these same four areas. By doing so we have seen God do amazing things in and though us. I believe God wants to do many new and wonderful things in and through Third New Hope Baptist Church as well. I look forward to being with you again tonight. Let's create a climate of expectation together. Pastor John Schmidt

Transformation Revival

2008-02-28T07:37:00.002-05:00

Wow! We started last evening with a mighty move of God. Teaching Pastor John Schmidt and Preaching Pastor Alvin Bernstine fed us with the word of God in such a powerful way. The focus was on "Presence." It was well emphasized that as the body of Christ, we need all of the members of our body present and active. The apostle Paul speaks of this in Romans 12:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. We are many different members but one body in Christ.

No "body" can reach its full potential without each of the various body parts. Neither can the church fulfill God's purpose for it without the full presence and participation of every member. Pastor Schmidt strongly emphasized the need for each member to be present and at attention! This is to say that we can't assume that our bodily presence is enough if our minds are elsewhere. What a challenge!

Many people embrace excuse after excuse for neglecting church attendance. For the sake of discussion, I would love to hear the positive reasons many people continue to attend church even though there is a broad array of excuses available. Why do you keep coming to church?

I'm also asking you to pray God's presence and power upon our Transformation Revival and upon our Teaching and Preaching Pastors. Blessings on you! Pastor E.L. Branch

Transformed Life

2008-02-21T10:01:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it? We are already a quarter of the way through the Transformed life Campaign. Lives are being changed as we read and reflect upon the Treasures of the Transformed life. Pastor John Ed Mathison, in his personal message to us, reminded us of the power generated by the entire church family engaging together in prayer, presence, gifts and service. I am hearing such powerful testimonies of people being challenged to grow in the things of God.

One of our members who now resides in another state sent an e-mail sharing the impact of his reading. He stated that "loving a person as a Christian allows us to see people not as they are but as they could be." Wow! What a challenge. We are called of God to embrace all of God's people regardless of their differences and to do whatever we can, great or small, to help them reach their personal potential. That's my question for today, what can we do to help others reach their potential in God? This requires praying the absolute best for others, period!

I trust that you are reading your daily chapters, meeting with your small group and joining us each Wednesday for study together. We are on a journey and we are believing God for a dynamic transformation. Let's make it Great! Pastor E.L. Branch

Welcome

2008-02-17T12:56:00.004-05:00

Welcome to "The Hope"
The official blog site of Third New Hope Baptist Church.

We are excited to have this new venue of Christian communication for our members. This blog will be used for a multitude of discussions among the people of God. This site is open for everyone to view and contribute to. So, we encourage you to pass the link on to your friends and family members. Over the next 40 days "The Hope" blog discussions will center around our "all Church" Bible study, Treasures of the transformed life.

We will begin blogging after the February 20th Bible Study. If you would like to suggest a topic related to this Bible study please e-mail us at blog@thirdnewhope.com