Frank and to the Point

PUBLISHED IN THE EVANGEL // January 3, 2008

Pastor Frank Lewis

The beginning of a new year always gives us the chance to set new personal goals. Often called New Year’s Resolutions, these goals summarize our best intentions to grow in the areas of self-improvement, personal enrichment, and spiritual growth. I enjoy the opportunity to set goals because it requires that I spend some time reflecting on the past year as well. I hope and trust that you will be engaged in setting some new goals along with me.

To help you just a bit, let’s talk about Bible Study. Each year in January we study a book of the Bible in a little more detail on Sunday mornings following the Southern Baptist emphasis called January Bible Study. This year’s Bible study focus is Paul’s letter to the Romans. It’s a great book and will help us as a congregation as we continue to talk about personal revival and renewal. Romans is a book that is very practical in places, yet very theological in other places. It’s both deep and applicable. You’re going to be challenged and comforted.

You can participate in at least two ways. First, plan to be a part of the Sunday morning worship experience and walk through Romans with your church family. I’m preaching from Romans during January and February. Second, plan to participate in your personal Bible study using the January Bible Study guide from LifeWay Christian Resources on Sunday nights at home during the month of January. You will come away with a greater appreciation for the Book of Romans, you will understand God’s amazing grace (the theme of the study), and you will reacquaint yourself with the joy of letting God speak to you through His written word.

Once again, I’m closing my column this week with the words “good-bye” to another individual who has left an indelible impression on First Baptist Nashville during her time of service here. Lacy Tite joined our staff five years ago and in that time brought our church forward into the computer and internet age. Most people visit First Baptist Nashville on the web before ever walking across our campus. Lacy is responsible for that...and our publications and computer network. We’re going to miss her in the office but are very thankful that she and Steve will continue to be active here in our ministry. She joins the staff of Vanderbilt University this month. Be sure to say a word of thanks and appreciation to Lacy when you see her!