Watch Night Service Weds Night pm

Watch Night Service 8pm.

First Perpetual Baptist, Rev. Julien Crowe
Macedonia Baptist, Rev. Russell Clark
Lakeview Baptist, Rev. Thomas Maxwell
Asbury Baptist, Rev. Delennon Stowe

Blending together at Lakeview to preach out the old year and pray in the new.

Music, Preaching, Fellowship and Food.
Come be with us as we worship together.

"Uncle Walt" Walton Alewine

My Great Uncle Walt graduated on to Heaven last saturday night and we had his homegoing service this afternoon.

Dr. Williams and Rev. Tucker did an outstanding service. They allowed me to do the Graveside service.

J. Walton Alewine

Date: August 30th, 1922 - December 27th, 2008

Obituary: (Courtesy of Strickland FH Hartwell Ga, Arnold Strickland Owner)
Mr. Walton Alewine, age 86 of 55 Homestead Rd, Hartwell, Ga., died Saturday, December 27, 2008 at his residence. Born August 30, 1922, in Elbert County, GA, he was the son of the late John Reece Alewine and Sara Lou Moore Alewine. He was a US Army veteran having served in the European Theater in World War II and also had retired from Bellcraft Mfg. where he worked as a spreader in the cutting room. Mr. Alewine was a member of the Hartwell First Baptist Church and a faithful member of the Doc Adams Sunday School Class for 30 years. Survivors include his wife of 51 years: Rubye Lowe Alewine; daughter: Sherrye A. Parham and her husband Anthony of Bowersville; sisters: Ida Almond of Bowman, Rose Lee Caudell of Vanna and Ruth Alewine of Lavonia; grandchildren: Darrian Parham, Crystal Johnson, Jessica Martin, and Megan Parham and eight great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by brothers: Thomas Alewine and Frank Alewine; and sister: Helen Lovinggood. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Rev. Steve Williams and Rev. Carter tucker will officiate. Burial will be in the Nancy Hart Memorial Park. The body is at the Strickland Funeral Home ~ Hartwell Chapel where the family will receive friends Monday night from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The family is at the home. Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

What a day of memories we shared before and after the funeral. Thanks for letting me have a small part in Uncle Walts homegoing service. Psalms 118:15 "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his godly ones" NASB
As his senior pastor Rev. Carter at 1st Baptist Hartwell put it. No one enjoyed a Sunrise better than he nor did anyone hate to see the sunset. Thank God when the sunset here it rose forever on the other side. Fanny Crosby put it this way, Blesses assurance Jesus is mine oh for a foretaste of Glory devine.." Uncle Walt had the foretaste as God had prepared him through his faithfulness and obedience for that which was to come.
He is in Gods presence today seeing that sunrise forever. Until we meet again, See ya Uncle Walt.

Josh ask Katrina to marry him from 1000 feet up.

Friday Night we hosted a Christmas drop in for my Wifes family. Joshua our oldest Son planned on asking Katrina to marry him. Josh, Jake and I spent some time Thursday Night spelling out "Will U Marry Me? in ten foot letters in the front yard.
Josh had a friend, Baron, a pilot was to come to the drop in posing as a cousin. With my wifes father having 20 siblings, it was not unheard of to have a cousin that not many people knew. Baron came in and mixed with the family. We advised our guest of what was happening and everyone played along. After the food was served, Baron gave out an invitation ot Josh and Katrina to go up in his plane to see the lights. Politely he announced his flight plans and asked if anyone else wanted to ride. Of course no one took him up on it but Joshua and Katrina. Once they left the house and reached the airport, about 2 miles away, we turned on our light display. Baron took them up and flew over the house. Katrina saw the sign as they flew closer she read it out loud in the plan. Then Josh gave her the ring and waited for the response. Yes was the answer. We are looking at a May Wedding. They returned to the party where a hearty congradulations was given by many at the party.

A continuing thought...

The Holiday Rush...

The rush is on. We buried our sister-in law Teresa, 52, this week. She went to be with the Lord on Sunday having fought a valiant battle against Cancer.
Heather and Richard are enroute back to Oak Island Washington.
Out prayers go out with them for a safw journey.

It came upon a midnight clear....

The appearance of the Star, the announcement... This Sunday at LBC

Christmas 2008 at LBC...

How do you like the new doo?
Christmas Sermon Series started last Sunday with "Joy to the World."
Using scripture based carols to share the Truth about Christmas

Dyar family Reunion Sunday afternoon in Hartwell. Hope to see you there.

Sunday Message " I heard the bells on Christmas Day."

New Years Eve Sevice at LBC starting at 8pm. First Perpetual, Macedonia, Asbury and LBC planning the joint Service.

Speak up for the Truth of Christmas

Holiday season is upon us. As I was out this week I saw a sign in a store window advertising X-mas specials. This makes a great opportunity for Christians to speak up and take a stand for the reason for the Season - JESUS!
I make it a point to remind them that it is not X that the Holiday is about but the Birth of CHRIST. Therefore it is Christmas not X-mas.

New Great Neice

Welcome into the family, Brylee......
All snuggled up with her Great Uncle.... Yeah one with her Great Aunt too!

A Rose is a Rose........

A Rose is a Rose. Memories are so valuable and it is so sad to see them fade away. My father in law suffered with Alzheimers for several years. I watched and supported my wife as she endured the wasting away of her dads mental capacities and eventually his death in a veterans nursing home Alzheimers unit. It was brought back to me as I learned of another relative who is afflicted with this desease and her sons experiences as he does what he has to do with professional, family,time and distance issues. Prayer support and help with little chores is great and is needed but there are also times when what is needed is for someone to just shut up and listen.
I hope I can fill the part of shut up and listen if given the opportunity.
If there is one positive to this desease it is the bad memories will fade away just as fast as the pleasant ones do. The memories that last for the patient are the ones experienced in the present. My Brother I am here for you.

The Cake said it all. A suprise combination Pastor Appreciation and Birthday Party for the pastor. A lot of good food and great fellowship.

Thanks to all the folks who pitched in to make this event special.

2008 Pastors Conference / South Carolina Baptist Convention

Election Day Now Past.....

It now becomes our duty to pray for the President Elect.
Congradulations to our first President Elect with African roots.
We should also pray for our Nation as it begins this new chapter in it's history.
One Prayer is for Godly Values and Morals to be revived in this country.
It is evident that people voted for their pocketbooks instead of Godly Morals, Values or for Leadership experience. As a nation America will reap what she sows.
This election has gotten people involved in the process but at what price?
The definition of family will be challenged heavily now with a democratic congress, senate and president who will have no one to slow down the liberal agenda. Jodie Hyce made a statement that it will not take long for all the forward progress made in the last eight years to be wiped out. Referring to stopping and slowing the Liberal democrat homosexual driven agendas in redefining what is a marriage and what makes up a family. I remind you that the Bible says that SIN is a reproach against any people. As Christians we need to stand firmer and united against any threat to redefine these. I pray for President elect Barak Obama and for Vice President elect Joe Biden, that God will move in their hearts and bring true repentance and change in theme on Abortion, Gay lifestyles and changing what is biblically defined as a family. Only then can we move on and be able to say once again. "God Bless America" until true repentance comes can change take place. Until then it is more of the same. I am reminded of what a communist leader said. Communism will take over America and not a shot will be fired. Socialism is a step in that direction.
God forgive America for putting your values second to their pocketbooks and sinful agendas.

Election Day Coming UP!

First and foremost of all. THIS IS MY PERSONAL BLOG. I am a traditional, Bible believing, Baptist Pastor speaking on my own behalf. I served my country and PAY MY TAXES TOO! That being said.... Election Time Again. Are you tired of the campaign adds yet?
As October rolls out and November rolls in we find ourselves again facing an election time. This is one of the most important elections I have faced since I first got to vote in 1978. a lot is at stake. One of my favorite quotes is from Abraham Lincoln, "Sir my concern is not whether God is on our side my greatest concern is to be on God's side for God is always right'?" At a time when people are so locked in to financial problems I am afraid that people are going to vote their pocket books instead of Godly principles. As Lincoln said, "God is always right". I urge you to go out and vote this November. As you step into the booth and read the amendments set before you, I urge you to ask the question, What does the bible say about this. When you look at a candidate, look at the big three questions - Where do they stand on Abortion - Murder of the unborn, What does the bible say about that?, Look at Marriage, What does the bible define as a marriage? One man and one woman for life. God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. Where does the candidate stand on this issue. Homosexuality - What does the bible say about it, where does the candidate stand on it. What about there definition of family? I ask you to look at the topics and candidates and consider what God would have you do in the booth?
Spread the wealth around, sound like socialism. Consider this, Paul said if you don't work you should not either eat. Proverbs tells us to consider the Ant. The grasshopper should not sit around hoping to share the fruit of the Ants hard work. He should get a job and do as the ant. My ancestors fought to keep a country that was based on Judeo Christian Principles not socialist or communist theories. Freedom of speech, Freedom of the Press, the Freedom and right to bear arms, Freedom of Religion not freedom from it. I think about the issues and responses to the above topics by some running for Office. I then begin to wonder what Christian could vote for anyone who could be fore abortion, homosexuality, Dissolving the tradition definition of family, support socialist ideology. That's my personal opinion. If you don't like it don't read my blog. If you stand for Abortion, Homosexuality, Dissolving Family Values, support socialism or communism, then don't read my blog. Your computer has a button you can push and go somewhere else. I am not upset with you. In the way of politicians I guess I am saying, This Rev. Thomas Maxwell and I approved this blog.

Urban Legends - "Sin"

We continue to exzmine the myths presented today.
The misconceptions about Sin.
See you there!

Great Crowd Friday Night at Outreach Broadway Lake.
Many persons came forawrd for prayer.

Winter Revival to be planned.
Evangelist Phil Dyar will be our Guest Preacher.

Wednesday Night Bible study "Revelation 10"

Homecoming 2008 Video 4 last video from event

Homecoming 2008 Video 3

Homecoming 2008 Singing Video 2

Homecoming 2008 Lakeview Baptist Song Video 1

"Old Fashion" Homecoming 2008 This Sunday..

Photo(Paul Wooten and Ivan Parker sing together with Total Praise Quartet)


Homecoming 2008
11am Worship
Come dressed in "Old Style Sunday Go to Meeting Clothes"
Old Time Singing and Preaching
Message: "Come Home, it's Supper Time"
Rev. Thomas Maxwell, Senior Pastor
12 Noon - Covered Dish Dinner


2pm - Singing Starts
Paul Wooten
Anna Harper
Beth Davis
Others

Sermon Series for October 2008

There are many urban legends out there: Bigfoot, Nessie, a tax free society.
There are just as many spiritual urban legends as well.
Join us in October for "Urban Legends" as we debunk the spiritual myths that are out there confusing people.


2 Timothy 4:3-4 KJV
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.

Spiritual Urban Legends:
There are many ways to to God.
God just wants you happy.
God won't put more on you than you can handle.
Sin "Legends"

Events Upcoming:
Sunday September 28th
Homecoming 2008 " an Old Fashioned Homecoming"
Featured Guest Singer will be Paul Wooten, other singers will be with us as well.
Sunday Schedule will be as follows: Worship at 11am, Dinner 12 Noon, Singing starts at 2pm until. No Sunday School or evening service.

This is your personal invitation from the Senior Pastor to come celebrate Homecoming 2008.

New Sermon Series: The Gathering Storm

Sunday we begin a new series called "The Gathering Storm"

Several things led up to this series. I read Chuck Swindols book on the life of Christ, I read Winston Churchills book, and God has impressed upon me this title as there is a gathering storm and people don't have a clue as to the true storm.

Join us Sunday and learn of the gathering storm.

Outreach Broadway Lake

Friday Nite Outreach Update...

Tonight the crowd was advised that after next friday nite the labor of the field outreach will have to move. Anderson County is closing down the building at McFalls landing to tear it down to makeway for a new area at the boatramp.
Nathan Sears from Gethsemane Baptist Temple, church planter in Mexico and Peru came to play and sing. He even yodelled for the Lord.

Bible Club Fall 2008 LBC

If I should die before I wake......

Sermon Series:
"If I should die before I wake......"

Messages:
This Bloods for you!
Where will you be one minute after you die?
HELL.....NO!

This Sunday:
Heaven.......Yes!

Are you sure?

Youth Outing August 2008

Thanks to all who participated in this event.
Pastor T

Sermon Series: "If I should die before I wake......."

Sunday's sermon will be:
Hell? No!

Baptism continues at Broadway Lake

Mr. Harbin comes as a candidate for Baptism.
With a rainbow overhead he was baptised in accordance to the word of God. Having confessed Jesus Christ as Lord for the full pardon of his sin. I baptised him my Brother, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
As Paul said,"Go and walk in Newness of Life."

Baptism & 5th Sunday Night Singing

Just finished out reviewing the photo's and video's from the singing.
They will be out soon. I received a few comments on our series, "If I should Die before I Wake..." some folks were shocked by the photo's of me in "the Box". I have this to say about it. When they put me in the box I still won't be there. It is nice to know I fit in a standard size Casket though. My wife won't have to get me a XXL one:)

Ms Elizabeth Rogers was Baptized Sunday before the morning service. What a great illustration of Death, Burial and Resurrection.

Special Thanks go out to Jacob Maxwell and Gary Welch for being my Pallbearers for the morning and making the presentation real. Especially the tapping from the "Box", also Thanks to Woodlawn - Sosebee Funeral Home of Anderson, S.C., for their assistance with the props for the Sunday morning service. Jim Sosebee and his staff went above and beyond to see that I had what I needed to get the right presentation.
I would have liked to had the Motorcycle Hearse brought it in but we could not get it in the doorways:)

Friday Night is coming up. Laborers of the Field at Broadway Lake. We will have Baptism service this friday night. I will be performing the baptism section and Dr. Sam Duncan will deliver the message.

Having received a letter from Fulmer Seminary, for it's Doctoral Studies Program.
I have sent off my transcripts and papers and am awaiting my scores to see if I have been accepted for the Doctoral Program in pastoral ministry. I have completed the coursework needed with the exception of the final Thesis. I chose to write about the Pastor's role in dealing with the terminally Ill and the grieving family. The extra courses from Southwestern helped out and they accepted my Bachelor in Christian Education and Masters Degree in Theology from Savannah Valley Bible College. Maybe I won't be 60 before I get my Doctorate.

Summer is coming to an end. Fall is in the air. College football is back. Now all we need is a little crisp cool air and the smell of a cozy fireplace stirring in the breeze.

Pastor T.

Where will you be one minute after you die?

:

In Remembrance:
Dr. Thomas C. Maxwell, Senior Pastor, Lakeview Baptist Church departs this life...
Born November 16, 1959 in Shreveport La. Survived by Wife JoBeth, Sons: Joshua and Jacob..... Alummi of Savannah Valley Bible College, Southwestern Theological Seminary, Fulmer Seminary.....He had a passion for Evangelism,and attending the Number ONE rated University of Georgia Football Games...Goo Dawgsss. Woodlawn-Sosebee Funeral Home in charge of arrangements...


Series: If I should die before I wake
Sermon Title: Where will you be One minute after you die?

Death is certain
Hebrews 9:27 "and as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this judgement."

What happens at death?

1) The Soul and Body separate.
Matthew 10:28
1 Thessalonians 5:23
Malachi 3:18
Matthew 13:49-50
2 Corinthians 5:1-9

2) Those who Trusted in Christ go immediatley to God's presence.
2 Corinthians 5:8-9
Luke 16 - "immediately carried away..."
Luke 23:43

3) Those who do not trust in Christ will be next weeks study.

(Photos and Obituary are futuristic in content. Like Mark Twain, the rumors of my death have been greatly exagerated.)

Prayer List UpDate

William Strickland passed away Monday Evening. Be in prayer for Mrs Strickland their children and families.

Barbara Wicker, Stepmother of Tracy Stephens and Nancy Patterson died tuesday morning at AnMed. Pray for this blended family, Jimmy's and Barbara's as they go thru this time of sorrow.

an Old Fashioned Homecoming 2008 September 28, 2008 Starts at 11am

(photo: 2005 Homecoming, Pastor Tommy & Rev. E.C. Yearwood Former Pastor LBC who built the present Sanctuary of LBC)

Homecoming 2008 Lakeview Baptist Church
Sunday September 28th 11am we will be celebrating an Old Fashioned Homecoming.
Come dressed in your old time clothes. Experience Old Time Gospel Preaching and Great Gospel Singing. Schedule of Events include Preaching Service, Dinner on the Grounds, Afternoon Singing featuring Paul Wooten and a host of others. Come let us worship together. I look forward to seeing you here at Lakeview's Homecoming 2008 Celebration.

Urgent Prayer Request:

William Strickland, in hospital ICU on Vent. Member Lakeview Baptist.
Family Request Prayer for him. Pray for the family as well as they travel back and forth to AnMed.

other request:
Sarah Garrett - Nursing facility
Pee Wee and Mother Blackwell - Pee Wee hit by car
Louise Powell - Cancer Recovery
Elise Burke - Health Issues
Joe Maxwell - Cataract issue
Trey Gump - US Army in Afghanistan
"Brooke" - US Army in Afghanistan

Jessica Maxwell Clark - US Army National Guard Alabama: Family Situation, She is Headed for Afghanistan in April (combat Vet. IRAQ)
Pastor Tommy - Shoulder Injury

Praise Report:
God sent Brother Gary Welch a better Job. Monday thru Friday, 1st Shift, no weekends

"If I should die before I wake......"

Sermon series starts this Sunday Morning.
Have you ever prayed that prayer?
As a kid I prayed the prayer: Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord, my soul to take.

What if it happened tonight!

What if you should die before you wake? Then what?

We explore this question for the next 4 weeks.
Come be with us for, "If I should Die before I wake?"

To drink alcohol or not to drink alcohol. What a Question!

Proverbs 20:1 tells us that those who drink are not wise.

See photo - To prove I am no pharisee or scribal legalist I am sitting in the Cheer's bar in Boston drinking Iced Tea. Unsweetened Tea.




There are three dangers I see with alcohol:
The Availability of it.
The Acceptance of it.
The Affect of it.

The brewers and distillers of alcoholic beverages will spend over 600 million dollars on advertising their wares. The will spend millions of dollars to get you to try it. Even persons in some churches tell you its OK to drink it.

Proverbs 23:29-35 read it in your Bible.

Statistics say 71% of all americans drink beverage alcohol.
78% below legal age have had a drink.
Of those who drink above the age 15 years and above last year consumed an average 32gallons of distilled alcohol per person.

I see the 3 M's of drinking in play here.
The Misery of the Bottle
The Mockery of the Bottle
The Mastery of the Bottle

Wine that is intoxicating and not intoxicating.
Proverbs chapter 23:31
Look not ( don't desire it) upon the wine when it is red and gives it color in the cup and moves itself aright. (Fermented)

"Alcohol has many defenders but no defence." Abraham Lincoln

A Drink in the bible referred to what is called in the bible as both: Hebrew: Yayin - Tirosh + Greek Oinos - Glukos- = Wine and Hebrew : Shakare = Strong drink (liqour)

Shekare - strong drink, Jerome wrote 400 AD said people knew how to make liquor.
Yes, genesis said Noah knew how to make wine. That was not shekar.

Hebrew word is Shekare means every drink that makes person intoxicated. Shekar is condemned throughout the Bible. Only place it was said to be used proactively. Proverbs Chapter 31:6 Give strong drink to those who are ready to perish, or those with a heavy heart. This is like narcotic use. To help a person die with ease. On the cross they offered Jesus the wine mixed with gall. It was a narcotic use.

Proverbs Chapter 31:4-5 "Lemuel it is not for use by kings and rulers lest their judgement be perverted or impared."

Tirosh - Wine in KJV, it means fresh or NEW Wine. Thy presses shall spring forth with new wine. Isa 65:8 the juice in the cluster grapes was called wine.
Just because the bible say's wine does not mean alcoholic wine.

Normal process of grapes juice does not produce a distilled type of wine. according to Yale university there has to be a desire to make it and a mechanical additive to make it alcoholic.

Yayin - could be either drunken type of wine or not - Look at the context to see what it means. I want to stop and get a drink. I would hope you know I don't mean a drink of an alcoholic beverage.

Yayin -Isa 16:10 Grape juice non intoxicating
In Proverbs yayin is a mocker - an intoxicating

Oinos in New testament could be either Grape Juice, Tirosh or Yayin but never Shekare. Not an intoxicating beverage. Jesus made wine but not that which would make them drunk or intoxicated. Last supper Jesus had the cup and unleaven bread. The bread and the drink were both without sinful additives or additives that have been compared to sin. Yeast or intoxicating liquor.

Jesus on the cross refused the wine mixed with the gall. He accepted later the wine and vinegar.

Proverbs says: Who has WOE - Misery. This is the sorry factor- Suffering factor.
Scripture say's this os the result of the woe of wine and strong drink.
Divorce, War, Murder - 1/2 of murders are alcohol involved in.
Contention - Foolishness - Who has these. Those that drink intoxicating wine and strong drink.

Proverbs says it is those who participate in the drinking of alcoholic beverage.
Proverbs 23 tells us about it.

Every year in america more people are killed in result of alcohol that died in Nagasaki and Hiroshima.

Viet Nam 52,000 soldiers plus died due to war. In nine years of the same war 2 million died due to alcohol.

Redness of eyes - anguish, sorrow, horror come from this drinking of alcohol.

verse 31 and 32 - it biteth like a serpent and bites like an adder. It's the poison that kills you. Intoxication is nothing more than poisen. It affects the heart, mind, the body.

Immorality factor - verse 33 when a person drinks restraint is removed. People become immoral more and has no restraint. It numbs the brain and the conscious.
How many times have we heard people cry out I would not have done it if I were not drunk. I could not help myself I was drinking. See the adds by the Highway Patrol. Highways or Dieways its your decision.

Insensabilty - verse 35 no feeling.

Addiction - When shall I awake, I will seek it yet again. To be addicted to it so as to always look for it. 17 million in america are alcoholics. There are only 16 Million Southern Baptist in the world. 17 million alcoholics in america alone.

a man takes a drink then the drink takes the man. Chinese proverb.

Washington DC most concentration of alcoholics. Republican Party, Democratic Party and the Social Party.

The Christians position biblically should be total abstinence from it.
Regardless what persons say about our freedoms. We should no be involved with it.

People who drink are more open to giving. Why do you think at charity events they offer alcohol. It loosens up lips and pocketbooks. Makes them easier marks.

Instability, can't walk straight on thier feet or behind the wheel of a car, or behind the trigger of a gun, 200,000 persons a year die in alcohol related deaths, be it accidents, murders.

The Mockery of the Bottle:
Proverbs 20:1 - "Wine is a mocker and strong drink is a raging and whoever is looks upon it is not wise."

It causes polar opposites to happen:

Think about this - It promises much but gives little.
we drink to:
be socialable but become unsociable
for Happeness become unhappy
for joy but become miserable
sophistication but become arguementative
friendly but become enemies
sleep but awake without rest
strength but became weak
medicinally but became sick
relaxation but got the shakes
for bravery but became afraid
to feel heavenly but became hellish
for freedom but became enslaved

Alcohol is a mocker you don't get what you think you are getting. It's going to mock you. When you see a drunken homeless person on the side of the road that is the result of the freedom to drink alcohol. I cannot tell anyone that it is OK because of our freedoms in Christ to drink alcohol. It drives wedges in families and relationships. Even the discussion of it causes problems.

You and I have to answer to God for every conversation we have. Good bad or indifferent. I will answer for this very blog.

Today my son and I listened to his pastor in a message that it is OK for Christians to drink responsibly. Secretly at home and even socialially but not to get drunk. The biggest effort was spent comparing drinking alcohol to overeating. Alcoholism verses Obesity, comparing one sin after another. I agree gluttony is sinful just as sinful as drinking alcohol. People do die from obesity. This does not make it OK to do either. Preach about gluttony, overweight as well as alcohol. I preach the full consul of God. I will preach that Jesus delivers you don't enslave yourself again. I never saw a man run over someone because they overate.

Oh yes, I am a fat pastor with Diabetes, high blood pressure etc.

Abstain from worldy lust.

Proverbs 23:31 "don't look upon it...." Don't desire it at all. It only takes a little amount of leaven to ruin the whole lump. Remeber it is

Leviticus 10:9-10 Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou or thy sons....
When you go in the tabernacle to minister while drinkning wine or strong drink...

We are priest as Aaron was in the old testament in the temple.
Yes, your body is the temple and you are the priest

Habbakuk 2:15 Woe unto him that giveth his neighbor drink....( or give him the OK)

Romans 14:21 How we ought to live..... " It is good neither to eat flesh or drink wine that would cause a brother to stumble.." It's not about us and whether we can or not particioate. Moderation is not the answer it is cause of it that people fail.
Don't do it so that it does not hurt others. Don't encourage others.
1 out of 15 will become an alcoholic, and 2 problem drinkers. 1 in 5 persons it effects badly.

Abstain from worldy lust that war against the soul.
Could it cause would it cause someone else to drink if I do.

Don't chance it.

Total abstinence:
Never broke up or destroyed a family
Never caused and accident
Never cost a person their life or anyone elses
Never cost an industry it's labor
Never cost anyone their health
Never comes in conflict with Godly Love
It has no harmful effects

One statement Perry made was if you can't put it down then don't pick it up. The only way to master the bottle is not to start. Never pick it up. Whether you can or not.ake a conscious decision to not do it.

Ephesians 5:18, it tells us to know which spirit to be filled with.
Don't be filled with drink but be filled with the Holy Spirit.

My wife say's I get to angry over things to talk about them. I should not get so angry in my response. You know I try not to get too loud when responding. However, I have a few things I hold tight as Perry talks about. This is one. I know first hand what happens when people get involved with alcohol be it wine, beer or liquor. I don't want them to have to see or go through what I have when it comes to this topic. Had it not been for Jesus Christ I know I would be enslaved to alcohol and drugs. It has ruined a lot of people I care for. How can I ever expect them to put it down if I do that which I would tell them not to participate in.

I'll make you a deal Perry, I'll preach on your topic of obesity if you will preach abstenance with regards to alcohol. That seems to be your topic of choice in comparison to alcohol.

Well that's my thought on the subject.. and this was not my first attempt to blog this tonight. I scrapped the first two attempts....

Days 9 and 10 enroute home

Home on Thursday night from the vacation to Branson Mo.
Checked out the areas enroute home. Went to Tupelo Mississippi to the house Elvis Presley was born in. It was a humble beginning that has been turned into a shrine of sorts. Heavy traffic in Atlanta Ga. Bumper to bumper from I-20 to I-85, see photo.

Day 9 departing Branson for Eureka Springs Arkansas

Loaded up and left Branson. Got to Eureka Springs and saw the Passion Play. Great play but it was ssoooo hotttt. Even with the sun down it was warm. We bought 3 fans, like you get for free at some funeral homes. They sure came in handy. On the photos you will see a few pictures at the Christ of the Ozarks. The play scenes. They asked that no photos or videos be made. so we did not get any after the drama started. We were unable to get internet to work at the hotel we stayed in at Eureka Springs - Best Western - They could not keep the server working. So this blog is coming to you from the courtyard marriot in Tupelo Mississippi. We will stay here tonight which is the 10th day. I spent it driving all day. I will have about 8 hours left to drive on thursday. SHould be in thursday night if I do not stop over in Atlanta Ga. I did get to stop at the Kerruso outlet in Eureka Springs, got some cool stuff. Well I am Very tired at this point in time. More Later, Pastor T.

Day 8 Branson

Hot is not explicit enough for the heat today. 110 degrees. We went to Silver Dollar city. Photo set onboard. Tomorrow we leave for Eureka Springs Arkansas. About an hour away. Time is winding down. Pray for relief of my right shoulder. I have injured my right shoulder. Long day rest time now.

Sunday the day of Worship and Rest..

On the 7th day God rested because his work was done. I rested because I was tired. We started the day off at Skyline Baptist Church, a Southern Baptist Church, here in Branson. This church has a fantastic story behind it. It started out as a dinner theater for the Lowe sisters, then two country music stars had it for a while. They all went out of business. Skyline Baptist needed a church. Hobby Lobby bought the property and gave it to the church. Wow what a story. It is a beautiful sanctuary and building. The pastor here left and moved to Greenville S.C., and get this,his son played football at GEORGIA.. I knew their was something about that church;) Russ Shimpoch is the former pastor. They are currently looking for a pastor. After church we went to McFarlanes for lunch. Then back to the hotle for a 2 hour search for JoBeth's cell phone. I went back to the church and found it their. Then we went to see the movie the Mummy 3 at the IMAX. It was great to see people from all over who came to the cbhurch service. I spoke to the church leadership and was told over 200 today were visitors. Normal Attendance is around 200 plus. Good Day, the DOM for this association gave the message today. More as time allows. Tommorrow we go to Silver Dollar City.

Day 6 Caving and Shepherd of the Hills..

We spent day 6 in Branson with a trip to Springfield to see the caves that you are driven through. A place where Buck Owens and the Buckeners used to place. Interesting trip. The Afternoon we ate lunch at a barbecue place called Danna's.
The evening was spent at the outdoor drama "the Shepherd of the Hills" It was rather warm but a good evening. Sunday Morning we will be visiting Skyline Baptist Church. A SBC church not far from where our hotel is. Pictures are up. More later..

Day 5 Branson Belle, Celebrating 27th Anniversary

Happy 27th Anniversary
Today we spent our 27th Anniversary going to a couple of shows. We took a ride out to the Branson Belle and secured tickets for the evening dinner cruise. Then we went out to see Yakov Smirnoff's show. Believe it or not the Yakov show was one of the best shows I have ever seen. It had a purpose and a good message too. I recommend it. We had a great evening sail on the Branson Belle. Good clean entertainment.

Day 4 Branson

Wow what a day. As you can tell this place is really family oriented. Each show has had Gospel Music included and has been very very family friendly. Today we went to see a Japenese Fiddler, It was so upscale inside. It is the first time I ever saw a men's room with a pool table in it. In the back of the auditorium there was a crying room. A glass encased quiet area where moms could take crying children and still be able to enjoy the show thru the large picture window. We even took in a short water works show on the river front. We have been checking out churches here. We will most probably attend James River Church on Sunday morning. There are several to chose from. I am studying in Isaiah while I am away and am working on another sermon series. Be prepared for Sunday. I spoke to Brother Travis and He WILL be there Sunday am and pm. Sorry for the mix up on Weds nite and thanks to Gary, John and Helen for sharing scripture thoughts on Weds. More later.

Day three - We sail on the Titanic

What a day, from the Titanic to the Hard Luck Diner to the Show SIX.
Photo's attached. Good Gospel singing.

Day 2 Tenn to Mo

Hey guys the trip is going well. Here are a few photo's. Check out the photo spread also check out the video of the guy throwing hot dinner rolls. They were great especially covered in sorghum molasses. Long drive and mountain terrain. Busy place. We took a trip down memory lane with supper at Dick Clarks American Bandstand. More later....
Glad to hear my brother has completed his obligations and is home for a visit. Yeah, I remember the hat request.

On the Road Again...

My family and I are back on the road for our annual vacation. We are currently in Jackson Tenn. Home of the Legendary Casey Jones. We will be having supper in Casey Jones Village tonight. Nice trip so far.

Updates to be posted as opportunity allows. The photo album is up and you can view it. Day two will be Jackson Tn to Branson Mo.

Saturday Night Concert with Total Praise and Ivan Parker

What an awesome concert. $10.00 ticket cost per person 5 hours of singing, comedy and fellowship. Every year Total Praise has this concert at Pendleton High School. Ivan Parker has been a regular attendee. A very personable and caring individual. During this years concert I made many videos and took many pictures. My wife had her annual photo made with Ivan. During the 2nd half of the show while I was reviewing photos I erased the whole card. I lost all the good video and photos of the singers but most importantly I erased the photo of Ivan and JoBeth. Boy did she get mad. I left my seat to find Paul Wooten, He graduated school with me and is a former member of Total Praise. I asked him to get word to Ivan that I needed to get another picture made because I erased my wifes camera. Paul told me not to worry that Ivan would come back to the table area after the performance. He did and I told him my story. He laughed and said his son had done the same with his camea at an event not to long ago. Thanks Ivan for the photo. Great Concert. Thanks Paulette for getting there early and grabbing good seats. Sorry our friends Gary and Gina could not make it. What an Awesome concert.

Bible in a Year

This Weeks Scripture:

UPDATE: Part of Blog message removed...
Due to interest in a newer read the bible through a year plan I have removed this one. Once it is completed for upload I will add the new one.

This is for my Cousin Sherry Alewine....

I found these two while scanning a bunch of old family Slides....
I'm holding the others for later :)

Glad I got to see Jessica and her kids while I was visiting last weekend.
Praying for her (Jessica's) husband who is in the military serving in Qatar. Lord, protect him! I enjoyed the great visit with Sherry, Anthony, Jessica and the kids.