God's Mighty Army

Five college students spending a Sunday in London went to hear the famed C.H. Spurgeon. While awaiting the doors to open, they were greeted by a man asking, "Gentlemen, may I show you around? Let me show you the 'heating plant' of this church." Being a hot day in July, they were not particularly interested. Not wanting to offend the stranger, they consented. The young men were quietly ushered down a stairway, where a door was reverently opened as the guide whispered, "This is our heating plant!" They were surprised to see 700 people bowed in prayer, seeking God's blessing on the service soon to begin in the auditorium above. As he closed the door, their guide introduced himself- he was none other than Spurgeon himself.

Spurgeon credited his success to his praying church members declaring, "Among all the formative influences that go to make up a man honored of God in the ministry, I know of none more mighty than the intercession of his parishioners. Without it, he will most likely be a failure."

Spurgeon's praying congregation was at the heart of his historic ministry. Every pastor should have the confidence that his congregation is praying for him as he serves the people, prepares his messages and preaches the word of God. What a difference the prayers of the people can and will make.

How is the "Heating Plant" in your church?

RDW

It has been a long time since I last posted.  Seems like life gets to going so fast that it is difficult to find the time to sit down and post comments and thoughts that are hopefully helpful and insightful. Dr. Robert G. Witty, a long time friend and mentor, lived to be 100 years and six months old.  He was one of my dearest friends.  He taught Bible classes in his assisted living home and Sunday School at his home church up to just two weeks before he died.  In his 90's Dr. Witty hosted two websites (I wish the sites were still up).  He told me the computer had given him the opportunity to minister to the world.  He posted Bible Studies, Sermons, Helpful Pastoral Hints and much, much more. He knew how to seize opportunities...he knew how to make oppotunities.  He would often say, "Find a wave and ride it...or make a wave and ride it."  This was his way of saying...always be moving forward, advancing the cause of Christ.

I sit here in my home study today, a rainy Labor Day, reminded that at my finger tips is a machine and technology through which I can speak to people around the world.  I think I am going to start using this opportunity for good and for God more often.

Also see my comments in "A Word From the Pastor" at http://www.deerfootbaptist.org/

Remember:  JESUS NEVER FAILS    (Robert G. Witty)

Thanks for reading my ramble today.  Please leave a comment if you visit this blog.  Let me know if you visit me from time to time.  Thanks.

Ministry in Osaka, Hiroshima Japan and Seoul, S Korea

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I have just returned from my second trip to Japan and my first ministry experience in South Korea. My ministry purpose in Japan was to do a follow up event to the recent Franklin Graham Crusade. Grace Mission Church, under the leadership of Dr. Ken Horiuchi, planned a Bible Convention as a follow up ministry with the messages intentionally targeting the Christian Life. I preached a series of sermons from First John on The Signs (or evidences) of Life. God blessed the ministry of His word in a wonderful way.

I also spent two days in Hiroshima. The visit to this city had an sobering impact on my life. Two wonderful pastors and a missionary took me on a tour of the A-Bomb Memorial. I will never forget that experience. I also conducted a brief Bible Convention in Hiroshima and again witnessed the blessings of God upon His word. He fulfilled His promise to honor the preaching of His word.

Dr. Horiuchi arranged for us to travel to Seoul for two days. I visited several churches and met with several pastors. The fellowship was good and the experience was educational. I saw first hand the great work God is doing through His people in South Korea. I had the privelege of preaching in the historic Sanjunghyun Presbyterian Church. This was an honor I will never forget.

The Christians in Japan and Korea are very devout. They love the Lord Jesus Christ and serve Him faithfully and sacrificially. I pray that I will grow to be a Christian of similiar maturity and courage.

Roger Willmore