January 8, 2024

Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in every church in the Lystra, Iconium and Antioch region (Acts 14:23).   Titus was told to "appoint elders in every town" (Titus 1:5).  Timothy, likewise, was instructed in the qualification for elders so that he could ensure each church was led well (Timothy 3:1-7).  The early churches were elder led!   That is the pattern.  

Standing Stone Bible Church is elder led.  Our requirements are based on scripture qualifications with the men being members of SSB.   There is not a man or men who appoint our elders but, instead, the membership nominates those that might serve.  If you are a member of SSB, please be in prayer for this and be in action on this:  Pray for those that are considering, those who have served and those that the Lord might lay on your heart.  Be in action by considering the qualifications of eldership in Scripture and then considering the men you know to then consider who perhaps you should talk to about serving.   This should lead you back to prayer!  Pray and pray some more.  

May 2024 be a blessed year as we wrestle against all that the enemy might place in our path (Eph. 6:12-18).  

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New Year's Resolutions?  Although we don't hammer this hard at SSB (why not make resolutions as the Spirit leads anytime of the year?), many of you do make "resolutions."   We should always consider how we are striving for the Lord and how we are actively growing in Him.   Is now the time for you to double down on your Bible reading, engage more in prayer, join a Life Group, start connecting to church on Wednesday or Sunday nights, or step into a service area at SSB?  Let us know how we might help encourage you in this.  

• Elder and Assistant Treasurer Nomination Time is here

Members of SSB:    Send nominations or ask questions of the Nomination Committee:  Steve Bothwell, Ruth Dorman, Pat Mahan, Chris Sebranek, or Pastor Ken Wombacher.

• Annual Meeting Reports

If you oversee a ministry at SSB, please have your reports in to the SSB office by Monday January 15.

Comparison is the result of insecurity.  Competition is often a by-product of pride.  Too often, they together can become a cancer in the body of Christ.  Look at Peter in John 21.  After being told by Jesus to “feed my sheep” and “follow me” (in a way signifying how Peter would die), Peter sees John and asks “Lord, what about him?”  - Comparison!   Jesus responds saying “that’s none of your business!!!” (PKW paraphrase).  He then reminded Peter of his job  by saying again, “you follow me!”   Someone once said, “To love is to stop comparing.”  If we are truly loving our brothers and sisters in Christ, it is impossible at the same time to be envious or critical of them (DO help them with sin).   We should, as we minister alongside of one another, celebrate their strengths and gifts and successes.   Love does not envy.   Be the church!