Good evening,

 We are nearing the time when we will board a plane for Equatorial Guinea (EG) on April 2, 2025. We will have eleven in our traveling group. However, as of noon today, we were thinking there may only be five. Visa issues, not health or financial concerns, thwarted our plans. Not the visa that you use at the restaurant, but the visa that allows you to enter the country.

       My paperwork went smoothly. I assembled all the required photos, documents, applications, and background checks. I placed these, along with my yellow vaccination card, my passport, and the required $200.00 check made out to the government of EG. I visited the Federal Express office in Sherman. The staff there safely delivered my package to the Embassy of EG in Washington, DC.

       Three days later, they called me. They said my application and visa had been approved. They were sending it back in the “Prepaid Envelope” included in the package. Sure enough, the next afternoon, the package was delivered with my passport stamped with the EG visa.

       Six of our travelers were so fortunate. Our director, Gary Godkin, called for a conference call. The purpose was to collectively pray that the Lord would expedite the approval of those visas. As we gathered, it became clear that the Lord would manage this situation as only He could do. A simple prayer was repeated throughout the couple of days of apprehension. “Lord, if you want us to go into the world, please influence the EG authorities. Get those visas approved swiftly.”

       Over the years, I have learned an important lesson. It is not the magnitude of words in prayer that matters. It is the magnitude of the Spirit that “maketh intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.”

My assurance came in the thought that there is no panic in Heaven. The Lord knows those we are to meet. He knows the desire of our hearts. He will prove Himself powerful toward those who seek Him.

       Sometimes, the Lord blesses through a text. Around 3:45 this afternoon, we heard that the visas had been approved and were being sent out tonight. The Lord was working all along. The precious hymn says, “O what peace we often forfeit. Oh what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”

       Missionaries are critical in the overall plan of God’s redemption. John Piper said,” the way to do world missions is to go to unreached peoples. The way to do world missions is to avoid settling down with the peoples that already have churches. This is true even if they are across the ocean. Instead, keep going to the unreached peoples until all the peoples are reached. Then they should have their own Christ-worshiping churches.”

       He wrote, “So, you have three possibilities in world missions. You can be a goer, a sender, or disobedient. The Bible does not assume that everyone goes. But it does assume that those who do not go care about goers. It expects them to support goers, pray for goers, and hold the rope of the goers.”

       His reference is from William Carey. He was born on August 17, 1761, and died on June 9, 1834. Carey was a missionary to India under the banner of the Baptist Missionary Society. At that time, Andrew Fuller said, “There is a gold mine in India. However, it seems as deep as the center of the earth. Who will venture to explore it?”

“I will go down,” responded William Carey, and included these words: “but remember that you must hold the rope.” (Emphasis mine)

       This picture of Christians holding the rope is a fitting analogy for the relationship between missionaries and their supporters. 

       Brothers and Sisters, I appeal to you. Please bombard the throne of God on our behalf. We will go and preach the glorious gospel of the Living Lord Jesus Christ.

Matthew 28:18-20

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20

      The “Majesty” of missions isn’t just about the grand scale. It is about the glorious King who commissions us. It is also about the breathtaking scope of His plan.

      These powerful words, spoken by Jesus to His disciples before His ascension, represent what we now call the Great Commission. These verses are far more than a suggestion or recommendation. They outline a magnificent vision for God’s kingdom. They also set a clear mandate for every believer.

The Incomparable Majesty of the Mission

      First, it is Rooted in Divine Authority: Verse 18 sets the stage:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”

This mission isn’t based on human ambition or organizational strategy, but on the absolute sovereignty of Jesus Christ. He, the King of kings, commands it. This is not a suggestion from a well-meaning teacher, but a decree from the ultimate authority.

      These closing instructions from Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel are more than just a good idea. They serve as the marching orders for the Church until Christ returns. Let’s look at the profound majesty and the undeniable mandate embedded within these verses.

Philippians 2:9-11 – “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

What makes Christ’s commission so majestic?

Second, it is Global in scope-Reflecting God’s Heart: “all nations.”

      In the original Greek, the word used is “ethne,” from which we get “ethnic groups.” Jesus wasn’t merely thinking of political boundaries or not merely a geographic term. It speaks of every distinct people group across the globe. The vision encompasses the entire human family in its beautiful diversity.

Revelation 7:9 – “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”

 This vision of redeemed people from every “nation, tribe, people, and language” illustrates the ultimate goal of the Great Commission.

      Third. Empowered by Divine Presence and Divine Partnership:

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

      This isn’t just a promise of spiritual comfort, but a guarantee of Christ’s active, empowering presence in the mission. We are not sent out alone; Emmanuel – God with us – goes with us. This presence assures us of supernatural power and guidance in fulfilling this mandate. This presence transforms the overwhelming into the attainable.

Hebrews 13:5b-6 – “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

      So, we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” This promise of God’s unwavering presence gives boldness to the mission.

Stay tuned, more coming Saturday.

Short-term mission trips have a strong effect both on those being served and those serving. Short-term missions in Equatorial Guinea hold particular significance to the local church. They are important to those who respond to the call of Scripture. They also matter to the broader indigenous body of churches.

1. The Mission Trip’s Worth to the Local Church

Short-term mission trips offer valuable support to the local church in Equatorial Guinea by:

Leadership Development: Mission teams often work alongside local leaders. They give them support. They equip them to continue with their work in ministry. This partnership assists in the work of the church and strengthens its foundation.

Community Outreach: Missions engages with the local community. This is done through involvement in various types of outreach activities. These range from health clinics to educational programs. Through these activities, goodwill and opportunities for new membership in the church are established.

Short-term missions can be a valuable assistance to local church work. They sustain this work by bringing tangible items like books and supplies. They also allow the transfer of knowledge and skills.

2. Obedience to God’s Call to Go into the World

For many participants, a mission trip to Equatorial Guinea is significant. It fulfills the Christian mandate to “go into all the world” (Mark 16:15). This call to action from the scriptures is fulfilled by:

Spreading the Gospel: Missionaries can share their beliefs. They can advance the spiritual growth of others by taking part in outreach activities. This helps fulfill the biblical mission.

Expansion of Worldviews: Participants step out of their comfort zones. They experience new cultures and increase their awareness about global Christianity. This makes them stronger in their faith experience. Service with Humility: Missions offer opportunities to serve without expecting anything in return. They live by biblical principles like love and humility. These values have a way of transforming lives for both giver and receiver.

3. Relevance to the Indigenous Church in Guinea

Short-term mission influence extends to the Indigenous church in Equatorial Guinea with the promotion of:

Cultural Exchange: Missions offer a means for cross-cultural exchange in artwork, enriching visitors and local churches alike. This cross-cultural exchange can foster mutual appreciation and stronger relationships among churches worldwide.

Missions can be a part of sustainable development. They collaborate in local needs-serving projects. This collaboration makes it possible for the church to serve more effectively in the long term.

Inspiration from a worldwide united church can motivate the local congregation. It empowers them in terms of spirituality and commitment to the spiritual path.

Short-term missions in Equatorial Guinea serve a vital role. They aid in local church expansion and follow scriptural mandates. These missions also enrich the local body. Though short in duration, practical and spiritual influence can leave a lasting impression.

I shall block out April 1 – 15 for my trip to Equatorial Guinea. The flight will take about 27 hours. Still, the rewards of the journey will bring honor and glory to the Lord Jesus. I urge prayers for my safety, clarity of thought as I preach, and strength for the work through the Spirit.

As winter’s chill gives way to warmer days, we’re reminded of God’s faithful promise of seasons. Just as the first crocuses peek through the thawing earth and tree buds begin to swell, we, too, are called to experience renewed growth in our faith journey.

“Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.” – Deuteronomy 32:2 (NIV)

This beautiful scripture reminds us that spiritual growth, like springtime renewal, is continuous. Many of us might think we’ve learned all there is to know about our faith – after all, we’ve attended countless services, participated in numerous Bible studies, and weathered life’s storms with God’s guidance. But as each spring brings new life to familiar gardens, God’s Word constantly offers fresh insights and deeper understanding.

Consider the maple tree in your yard that has witnessed decades of seasons. Each spring, it doesn’t say, “I’ve grown enough leaves in my lifetime.” Instead, it faithfully produces new growth, reaching ever higher toward the sky. Similarly, our spiritual journey isn’t meant to plateau. God’s wisdom, like spring rain, continues to nourish our souls, revealing new layers of understanding and fresh perspectives on His truth.

This season, we invite you to embrace the spirit of spring in your faith walk. Perhaps it’s time to:

• Join a new Bible study group

• Mentor someone in their faith journey

• Explore a book of the Bible you’ve never studied deeply

• Start a spiritual journal to document your growing relationship with God

Remember, you’re never too old to learn something new about God’s character and His endless love for you. As spring rain awakens dormant seeds, His Word can spark unexpected growth in areas of your faith you thought were fully developed.

Whether you’ve been walking with the Lord for decades or are in a fresh season of faith, God’s teachings continue to fall like gentle rain, nurturing your spirit and encouraging new growth. As we welcome this spring season, let’s open our hearts to the refreshing presence of His Word and the joy of discovering more about His goodness.

Join us this spring as we explore God’s Word, proving that spiritual growth, like the seasons themselves, is a beautiful, ongoing journey.

Rickey Hargrave, Interim Pastor

Southmayd Baptist Church

Southmayd, Texas

Valentine’s Day. For some, it’s a day filled with flowers, chocolates, and romantic dinners. For others, it can be a stark reminder of loneliness, loss, or maybe just the everyday struggles of life. Whether you’re celebrating with a loved one or finding yourself needing some extra comfort this year, there’s a love that transcends all earthly experiences: the unconditional, unwavering love of God.

First Corinthians 13 paints a beautiful picture of this love – a love that is patient and kind, that envies not, boasts not, and is not proud. It’s a love that doesn’t easily anger, keeps no record of wrongs, and rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth. This love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. And most importantly, this love never fails.

Men, in the midst of life’s pressures – career demands, family responsibilities, the constant push and pull of expectations – it’s easy to lose sight of this foundational truth. We can get caught up in striving, in measuring our worth by what we accomplish or possess. We can feel the weight of needing to be strong, to have it all together, and sometimes that weight can be crushing.

But here’s the good news: God’s love isn’t dependent on our performance. It’s not something we have to earn or deserve. It’s a free gift, offered to each of us, regardless of our marital status, our success, or our failures. His love is a constant, a solid rock in a sea of uncertainty.

This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to reflect on the immeasurable love of God. Let it wash over you, reminding you of your inherent worth and the unwavering support that’s always available. Whether you’re sharing this day with someone special or finding solace in quiet reflection, know that you are loved deeply and completely.

If you’re feeling lost, burdened, or just in need of connection, we invite you to join us this Sunday at Southmayd Baptist Church in Southmayd, Texas as we delve deeper into the meaning of God’s love.

With the assurance of eternal life comes the certainty of answered prayer. As articulated by R. A. Torrey, “Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power.” This profound power of prayer is available to us. We must actively engage it by keeping God’s commands. We also need to please Him and ask according to His will. With these principles, John assures us we can be confident in prayer. We know that God hears us. He will fulfill our requests.

George Mueller was a respected figure of faith. He emphasized that “prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance; it is laying hold of His willingness.” Understanding God’s will is crucial since His intentions align with our ultimate good and His glory. Though His will can differ from ours, Romans 12:2 reminds us that God’s will is “good, pleasing, and perfect.”

In 1 John 5:16–17, the focus shifts from petitions to intercession, specifically about sin. John differentiates between sin that does not lead to death and sin that does. The latter is often interpreted as the total rejection of the gospel, resulting in spiritual death. Various interpretations suggest it is a specific, deliberate sin against the Holy Spirit or the total rejection of Christ.

Renowned theologian D. Edmond Hiebert provides clarity, indicating that rejecting the incarnate Son of God leads to “sin unto death.” Thus, for those resolutely rejecting biblical teachings about Jesus, prayer is futile.

Despite these warnings, John reaffirms that prayer remains a powerful means to confront and conquer sin. Charles Spurgeon eloquently states, “All hell is vanquished when the believer bows his knee in importunate supplication.” Prayer connects us with the eternal, omnipotent God, serving as our chief resort.

Let us commit to prayer. Be faithful to God’s cause. Embrace the assurance that when we align with God, He stands with us.