tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-182510402012-02-14T14:30:11.413-05:00NITW & Books that Nourish is the teaching, writing, book, & church planting ministry of Ray Rhodes, Jr.Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.comBlogger611100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-5578425566010626152009-10-29T08:44:00.002-05:002009-10-29T08:56:02.318-05:00

No Creed But ChristChristians have often recited the mantra, "no creed but Christ." The intent of such a statement may be well motivated, but the reality is that a creed, confession or catechism is simply a means of communicating biblical truth. Christians throughout history have recognized the need to clarify their understanding of Scripture, to summarize key doctrines in the face of error and

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-85873294993968922492009-10-27T09:25:00.005-05:002009-10-27T09:51:40.613-05:00

Tuesday, October 27th.The Morning StarScripture Reading: Psalm 19; Mark 1:1-8As a boy I would often gaze into the sky at night. I was amazed by the beauty of the stars and the vastness of the universe. Just before sunrise the morning star is visible. It is an indicator that a new day is about to begin. Prior to the Reformation the church was in a dark period. During those days a "morning star

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-69492552706170061882009-10-01T07:33:00.002-05:002009-10-01T07:57:01.765-05:00

Helping Your Children During the Sunday Worship ServiceI was recently asked by a young married couple how they can help their children to behave during the Sunday worship Service.To get young children through our relatively lengthly service can be difficult.. A typical sermon may last up to an hour. This does present parents of young children with some challenges. That being said here are a

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-3271913268223795452009-09-14T18:09:00.000-05:002009-09-14T18:14:38.661-05:00

Nourished in the Word MinistriesThe Teaching and Writing Ministry of Ray Rhodes, Jr.September 10, 2009Dear Friends,I am writing to thank you for your prayers and support of our ministry. I also want to give you an update and share some prayer requests with you.Thank you for praying for us. In 2 Corinthians 1:11, Paul teaches that prayer is one way that we help one another. A sovereign God uses

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-51269759603658644052008-11-11T07:05:00.005-05:002008-11-11T07:22:38.657-05:00

Are Christians to be known as those who resist the leaders of government? In Geneva, under Calvin's influence, no such resistance was promoted. From the Geneva Confession (perhaps authored by John Calvin though we are not sure) we read:"We hold the supremacy and dominion as much of kings and princes as of other magistrates and superiors, to be a holy thing and a good ordinance of God. And since

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-46758034561142704922008-11-07T23:14:00.003-05:002008-11-07T23:20:02.978-05:00

President Bush is a man of great kindness.Read and watchhttp://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,447625,00.htmlhttp://online.wsj.com/article/SB122584386627599251.html

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-3848625416937629502008-11-06T00:02:00.007-05:002008-11-07T23:20:21.314-05:00

Where was God during the election? Was He caught off guard? God was not wringing his hands in despair as Senator Obama became the President-Elect. The election of Senator Obama was the will of God (Romans 13).Though we might debate the dimensions of God's will we should make no mistake that God has spoken.Will you trust God? Will you obey God and therefore pray for President-Elect Obama?

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-67562999749915505052008-10-31T07:35:00.002-05:002008-10-31T07:38:42.139-05:00

Martin Luther’s barber was a man by the name of Peter Beskendorf. ‘Master’ Peter asked Martin Luther to teach him to pray. Luther’s response was a wonderful letter (booklet) in which he lays out for Peter “A Simple Way to Pray.”Most of us would readily admit that sometimes prayer seems anything but simple. Luther, in fact, addresses some of the struggles one faces when attempting to pray. He

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-49298186789591978452008-10-29T15:07:00.003-05:002008-10-29T15:08:32.093-05:00

It is downright deadly to be a black baby in America. Abortion is a tragedy of unimaginable proportions. Read the article below, weep and pray. http://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/viewarticle.php?selectedarticle=2008.10.28_Hendershott_Anne_A%20Dangerous%20Time%20to%20be%20a%20Black%20Baby_.xml

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-14565675016610222482008-10-28T06:28:00.006-05:002008-10-29T10:12:53.869-05:00

Joel Beeke's outstanding new book, "Living for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism" is now available. The book is a 414 page hardback from Reformation Heritage Books. You can order here BOOK.Among other topics, the book contains chapters on marriage and family. The Puritans were passionately God-centered regarding family life. They believed that the purpose of marriage was:1. For the

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-49903323983445894822008-10-27T09:13:00.004-05:002008-10-27T09:23:54.457-05:00

Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, Who walks in His ways (Psalm 128:1).Kidner says, "The quiet blessings of an ordered life are traced from the center outwards in this Psalm, as the eye travels from the godly man to his family and finally to Israel..."Psalm 128 is a beautiful Psalm of the blessed life. The vision of a life that is blessed is founded on the fear of God. To fear God means to

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-46934606968970596182008-10-15T09:06:00.002-05:002008-10-15T09:06:56.278-05:00

All movies have a message that is rooted in a world-view. That is true of good or bad films. I say that because we often hear about “message movies.” However, sometimes the message is more subtle and at other times it is crystal clear, front and center. That is the case with “Fireproof”.In some movies the solutions offered to the great problems of life deal with the symptoms and fail to get to

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-42821696227725360892008-10-09T16:44:00.003-05:002008-10-09T16:48:37.696-05:00

Quick Reminder: Order "Family Worship for the Reformation Season" today and have it delivered in time to begin on the recommended dates of October 27th or October 31st. I have just returned from Alabama and Virgina on a preaching tour. I am encouraged in the ministry. Let me recommend the churches where I preached for your prayers and consideration. Auburn Alabama, Grace Heritage Church.

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-79093778307408334042008-09-30T05:56:00.002-05:002008-09-30T06:09:59.356-05:00

As we battle with remaining sin we often find our relationships with others strained.1. We should be careful in our judgements towards others. If we feel we have been wronged by others through a word spoken let us ask, "Do we really know the intent of that person's heart?" How easy it is in the midst of conversation to fail in communication. Let us not be quick to judge our brother or sister

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-87535415416009481172008-09-26T05:41:00.002-05:002008-09-26T05:47:34.137-05:00

Recommended Dates to Start the BookToday Start today and finish up on Reformation Day, October 31st.October 15th Start this day and finish up in mid November.October 31st Start on Reformation Day and work through November. This plan allows you to move immediately from the Reformation Book to "Family Worship for the Christmas Season."January 1st 2009 Start the new year in family worship and

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-47291125840735339952008-09-26T05:39:00.002-05:002008-09-26T05:41:11.960-05:00

Biblical counseling is built on the foundation that the Bible is inspired by God and therefore, infallible, inerrant and sufficient. All that we need to know about God and how to live for Him is contained in the Bible. We also discover the root issue of all of our problems (sin) and the remedy (the gospel). Here is a simple outline, easy to remember, that is instructive as you seek to be

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-39389318874270693532008-09-23T00:43:00.001-05:002008-09-23T00:43:47.973-05:00

Getting Ready to Celebrate the Reformation: A Couple of Questions Q. What are some good resources to help my family to better understand the Reformation? A. In my new book, "Family Worship for the Reformation Season" there is an Annotated Bibliography. There you will find a list of great books for your Reformation library. You can get those books from us. A couple of key recommendations

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-63939765746412110362008-09-06T23:52:00.005-05:002008-09-07T00:12:19.613-05:00

Just over two years ago in Ocala, Florida I learned to swim (a little). I was in a hotel pool with my daughter Mary and she taught me how to swim (I was 44). My swimming has improved since then. Thanks Mary!My oldest daugther Rachel has been asking me for some time to go horseback riding with her. I have been putting it off...until last evening. Though I have been on a horse a few times and

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-30515809159825110552008-09-04T09:55:00.004-05:002008-09-04T10:07:33.324-05:00

Family Worship for the Reformation Season books are on the way!!! They have been shipped and should arrive tomorrow, Lord willing.Order your books today if you haven't already! Let's make Family Worship for the Reformation Season the 2008 best seller for Solid Ground Christian Books.

Rachel Rhodeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08307540994304335141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-38329263444942326492008-09-03T15:09:00.011-05:002008-09-03T15:49:25.020-05:00

Books That Nourish just got a large shipment in today! There is an abundance of these two great books by Carolyn Mahaney, for women: The Mahaney women's chatty and comfortable approach is deeply biblical and straightforward, connecting with all sorts of relationships, including single moms, stepmoms, adoptive families, and those in either healthy or challenging relationships." --Noel Piper,

Rachel Rhodeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08307540994304335141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-76757651963722721392008-08-06T14:04:00.001-05:002008-08-06T14:04:48.969-05:00

Are you a critical person? “Do other people enjoy being around you?” Think about it for a second. Would you say that others look forward to seeing and taking to you? More importantly do you think that your attitude reflects accurately on the goodness of God?We have all met folks that are hyper-critical. If you comment on the beauty of the sky they respond with, “well it is a bit smoggy out

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-39254309028630640572008-05-22T11:35:00.001-05:002008-05-22T11:37:40.433-05:00

The phone rings or the tires screech—a moment in time that changes time. The Steven Curtis Chapman family faced such a moment yesterday. It is not a new story as many families have walked through a similar dark valley. However, familiar as the story may be the heart is exposed afresh to the almost unimaginable pain of losing a child.The Chapman’s five year old daughter Maria was hit by a

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-13161176020058114692008-04-17T07:11:00.000-05:002008-04-17T07:12:40.784-05:00

What is your only comfort in life and death? Just the word comfort seems comforting. It is one of those words that sound like what it means.In 1563 one of the most treasured writings in the history of the Christian church was published. The Heidelberg Catechism is one of the enduring documents from the time of the Reformation. One of the reasons that it was well-received by Christians of that

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-61357823208103222602008-02-01T11:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T12:10:56.429-05:00

The fact of Creation is simply stated in the Bible. It is not debated. It is, however, plainly articulated. God created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them (Genesis 1-2). The intricate design and order of creation serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of God. Psalm 19 teaches that “the heavens declare His glory.” Romans 1 makes it clear that creation testifies to the

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-6697217319767953822008-01-18T10:13:00.001-05:002008-12-09T12:10:56.547-05:00

One of the great things about serving as Pastor of Grace Community Church is having the privilege to minister alongside a truly outstanding man. My fellow Pastor, Kevin Jarrard, would quickly remind me that he is not a great man but serves a great God. Kevin is a godly man with the gift of leadership and a big heart of compassion for others. I have witnessed that personally as we have served

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-77169778734725495062007-12-24T00:39:00.000-05:002008-12-09T12:10:56.679-05:00

Nourished in the WordMost of us have enjoyed the warm comfort of home surrounded by the sweet fellowship of family this Christmas season. Let us not forget to let our prayers ascend heavenward for the brave soldiers who defend our cause in lands unfamiliar. For this week’s column I have chosen a letter written by General Robert E. Lee to His wife on December 25, 1862 from Fredericksburg Virginia

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-69766049850352032122007-10-26T12:49:00.000-05:002007-10-26T12:53:32.863-05:00

Soon the Trick or Treaters will have collected their treasures and the multi-million dollar industry of Halloween will close its doors for another year. Many folks will look past Thanksgiving Day and move quickly towards Christmas.Not so fast! Before you start shopping for your Turkey and dancing with the Wal-Mart Santa Claus look back, one more time, to October 31st.Perhaps you missed it, most

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-5641197064159516572007-10-02T19:18:00.000-05:002008-12-09T12:10:56.808-05:00

Daytona Beach is known for many things; car racing (even on the beach quite a few years ago), bikers and sadly for those who “dropped out” of life in the 1960’s. None of those things really characterize my memories of Daytona. When I was growing up in Crawfordville, GA my parents took our family to Daytona almost every summer in August. For me, as a boy, Daytona was Florida—Florida was Daytona

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-85810253995472746012007-09-27T13:41:00.000-05:002008-12-09T12:10:57.085-05:00

Family Worship for the Christmas SeasonRay Rhodes, Jr.Four More Days to Save on Pre-Publication Orders of Ray's New Book! 33% discount until September 30th Midnight.Retail Price is $12.00 Special Offer $7.95The final edits have been done, Lori Rhodes has written an excellent perspective and the book has been expanded from the original drafts. The book should be in stores by mid October. Family

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-10720728872742179132007-09-16T23:08:00.000-05:002007-09-16T23:12:18.424-05:00

One of the many oddities about our church is the fact that we meet on Sunday evenings instead of Sunday mornings. We have very little in the way of advertising and thus far we have no building to call our own.However over 30 folks have found us. Our services consist of Scripture readings, prayer, fellowship and preaching.Tonight we had four students from a local college in attendance.Our journey

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-61992866563205825852007-09-16T08:13:00.000-05:002007-09-16T08:21:19.466-05:00

Last night and today a Christian Ministry found itself with an email problem. Somehow hundreds of emails were sent out from their ministry to their subscribers. I received well over 100 from them myself.This was, for me, another reminder of how challenging the world of technology really is.The error on the part of this ministry evoked the anger of many of the recipients of the mass emailing.

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-6156657898297310572007-09-14T12:09:00.001-05:002008-12-09T12:10:57.300-05:00

A few weeks ago a church member suggested that we have a new member's desk reference set of books that we want all new members of our church to read.Here is what we have so far:1. "Stop Dating the Church" by Joshua Harris2. "Christian Beliefs" by Wayne Grudem3. "The Peacemaker" by Ken Sande4. "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan.Our church is a reading church and there are many more books

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-90181246451379147212007-09-13T11:01:00.001-05:002008-12-09T12:10:57.451-05:00

Downtown is no place for a church.The downtown church building was once a welcomed reminder in our society of the importance of the centrality of Christ. Towering steeples announced to approaching travelers that the Christian faith was an essential part of community life.Those days appear to be eroding fast.Of course it is quickly recognized that a church building, towering steeple and religious

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-74597583132435385672007-09-11T16:21:00.000-05:002007-09-11T16:31:47.518-05:00

9/11Making A Difference"Some people wonder all their lives if they've made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem." Ronald ReaganSacrificing for the FutureA Sign Chiseled Outside of a Marine Cemetery In Iwo Jima "When you go home Tell them for us and say For your tomorrow We gave our today."For Our Nation1. Desire Does your heart long for the salvation of your countrymen? "

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-73846676364153810242007-09-07T06:46:00.001-05:002008-12-09T12:10:57.570-05:00

“In a day when having regular family worship is no longer a foregone conclusion (even among conservative Evangelicals), Ray Rhodes provides a wonderful impetus to start: a month of clear, biblical, practical devotions celebrating the birth of King Jesus. Hopefully, those who begin this Christmas using this excellent resource will continue gathering daily at the family altar throughout the coming

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-67910820888684853142007-07-22T22:41:00.000-05:002007-07-22T23:00:19.684-05:00

The following response to this article http://www.globalengage.org/media/article.aspx?id=3364 was written by my fellow elder Kevin.Sir, It took me a couple of days to digest "The Role of Religion in Winning theLong War." A few thoughts: 1. He is correct in asserting that fundamentalist Christianity and Islamhave some common ground. On the surface, adherents of both religions arepious, and

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-81850635109215014442007-07-22T22:39:00.000-05:002007-07-22T22:40:10.773-05:00

Nourished in the Word MinistriesVision BreakfastFeaturing guest speakerPastor John CrottsJohn is a pastor and the author of two books on the family.also featuring musiciansNorvelle and Natalie JetterCome for an inspirational message, update on NITW, breakfast, giveaways, and great time of fellowship. Books that Nourish will have a full selection of books for purchase.Saturday July 28, 2007 8:30

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-60595807462025678762007-06-26T22:10:00.000-05:002007-06-26T22:12:07.407-05:00

Missing Children60 Million Girls Missing in AsiaYes, 60 million!“According the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) * 85% to 90% of the 876,213 persons reported missing to America’s law enforcement agencies in 2000 were juveniles (persons under 18 years of age). That means that 2,100 times per day parents or primary care givers felt the disappearance was serious enough to call law

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-11813103417052198152007-05-31T20:06:00.000-05:002007-05-31T20:08:42.830-05:00

Parenting is a matter of life and death Ray Rhodes, Jr. Parenting is a matter of life and death. The tremendous responsibility of bringing up children is enough to cause the knees to knock and the heart to race. Herein is the problem for many. How many parents actually contemplate the calling and responsibilities of being a parent? Writing in the early 1800’s the preacher John Angell James

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-81227927185369775222007-05-19T19:03:00.000-05:002007-05-19T19:04:57.587-05:00

To my daughter on the occasion of her graduation.Dear Rachel,The time has come to celebrate what has been completed and yet has only begun. I understand the nostalgia that sweeps through the mind at an occasion like this. I have often danced with such thoughts myself. Looking back is a normal part of our existence. The backward glance can be our friend if used as intended. Often I have

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-74997775264999723842007-05-11T11:21:00.000-05:002007-05-11T11:39:42.034-05:00

Fathers and DaughtersRay Rhodes, Jr. I have been blessed with five daughters! Therefore I should know something about girls. Well…there is only so much that one can know about girls. They are mysterious creatures that are impossible to figure out. Therein is one of the reasons that they are so intriguing.The best thing for any daddy (or husband) to do when it comes to girls is to focus on

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-9817765838155586782007-05-11T10:15:00.000-05:002007-05-11T10:20:45.638-05:00

To See Ahead You Must Look Back “Look ahead and don’t turn back” is the mantra that many associate with visionary thinking. The problem with such an equation is that it is dead wrong. Yes, people of vision must cast a wishful gaze forward but before they can do that they must fully engage themselves in a look back.Parenting requires great vision. The faithful parent simply must know how to see

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1163012457662521182006-11-08T13:58:00.000-05:002007-03-11T15:20:46.523-05:00

An Eschatological Perspective on the Election How did you feel when you woke up this morning with the Democrats in control of the House of Representatives and close to controlling the Senate? One conservative talk-show host has been trying to rally the Republican base in the past few months by asking listeners to consider how terrible it would be to have Nancy Pelosi as the Speaker of

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1154951930071820712006-08-07T06:56:00.000-05:002006-08-20T06:03:47.176-05:00

One of the strengths of our church is that we share meals together and discuss the things of the Lord. We see this as an essential relationship building time that puts us in an arena where intimacy can flourish. Many people today desire to be anonymous in church. They would prefer to avoid deep relationships as much as possible. Certainly we can sympathize with those who may have had bad

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1153048736357817232006-07-16T06:16:00.000-05:002006-07-30T17:15:09.600-05:00

The Family a Garden of Grace It'’s time for Americans to serve God by growing up, getting married, having children and settling down. Those words might be a bit jarring or considered downright dangerous to a society intoxicated with success, infatuated with romance, and indoctrinated in the dogma of feminism. Yes, it may be difficult to maintain the BMW lifestyle, drink wine and eat

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1152276787270897892006-07-07T07:46:00.000-05:002006-07-07T07:53:07.283-05:00

I recently listened to an excellent sermon by Dr. Donald Whitney and he lamented the breakdown of intimate personal relationships in our society. In an age of instant messaging it is likely that one might know a stranger across the world more than they do their neighbor.The church, however, is to be a one another community of love. Think about the Scriptural instruction that we "meet

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1151429603596676332006-06-27T12:23:00.000-05:002006-07-02T21:19:27.773-05:00

A recent phone call was very revealing. The very kind person on the other end of the line indicated her discouragment about superficial preaching. She saw an ad in the local paper giving basic information about our church. The ad mentions that we teach the Bible verse by verse. She was obviously encouraged by our announcement. She said something to the effect, "I wondered if anyone teaches

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1151411755609248522006-06-27T07:20:00.000-05:002006-06-27T09:13:44.733-05:00

As I write this I am listening to Fernando Ortega sing "Sing to Jesus" and "Jesus Paid it All." I must confess that my morning devotions had become very dry--for I fear my heart had been growing cold. Sometimes it would be a quick verse dutifully read and sometimes nothing at all. What a sad confession but thankfully made to a merciful God.Recently I have rediscovered the joy of morning

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1151016096967883342006-06-22T16:43:00.000-05:002006-06-22T18:06:57.636-05:00

Thoughts on a Pastor's ResponsibilitiesThese are busy days. My joyful work with Nourished in the Word Ministries includes serving as an interim Pastor of one church, a church planting Co- Pastor of another, managing a book store and traveling around to preach in a variety of places. I have given some thought to how I need to spend most of my days as a Pastor and as the leader of Nourished in the

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1150501212809101562006-06-16T18:35:00.000-05:002006-06-16T18:40:12.826-05:00

Preach the Word and Engage in DramaMy regular readers may think that I have finally and fully lost my mind or at least radically changed my position on church worship. Take a deep breath…I have not. Today's title is certainly not a call for churches to get into the skit business. Sadly too many have embraced the drama stage and called it worship. That being said it is true nevertheless that

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1150339408277418602006-06-14T21:38:00.000-05:002006-06-20T01:07:14.926-05:00

The Southern Baptist ConventionA friend called today and told me that he was ready to lead his church to depart from the Southern Baptist Convention. He had watched some of the Convention proceedings this morning and heard some discouraging words.I encouraged him to hang in there a while longer. Some of my reasons included:1. The Convention has a rich history of biblical fidelity. Though it is

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1150171390303530402006-06-12T23:03:00.000-05:002006-06-15T07:04:03.646-05:00

Nourished in the WordI just visited the blog of my friend Steve Weaver and found a listing of some helpful and free web-resources to help you with your family. Much of the teaching that I do with Nourished in the Word has to do with family life from a Biblical perspective. Much of the teaching has been developed from Psalm 78. I think that you will find the resources below helpful as you seek

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1150170592467437962006-06-12T22:49:00.000-05:002006-06-12T22:49:52.523-05:00

Nourished in the WordThe Dangerous and Exciting Journey of Shepherding a FlockTo be called to Pastor a local congregation is a dangerous and exciting occupation. You never know who is going to enter into a church building on a given Sunday. It may be one that is the answer to all of your prayers--a godly servant of our Lord Jesus Christ. It may be one who brings years of unsound theological

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1150076134083878282006-06-11T20:35:00.000-05:002006-06-12T09:28:50.250-05:00

Nourished in the WordThe Lord's Day is a delight. Today I had the opportunity to preach twice at Grace Bible Church in Canton in the morning and at Grace Community Church in Dawsonville, Georgia in the evening. One poet wrote concerning the Lord's Day: "O day of rest and gladness, O day of joy and light, O balm of care and sadness, Most beautiful, most bright."Enjoy the gift of the Lord's Day as

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1149699031909432102006-06-07T11:40:00.000-05:002006-06-08T14:15:42.146-05:00

Life is tough on its good days. The impact of sin has left its scars on every aspect of our lives. Increasingly I am grieved as I see disease, death, destruction--and multiplied heartache. Sometimes I feel with intensity a homesickness for heaven.Grief is a constant companion. Sin is a constant struggle. I must daily remind myself, as one writer has put it, to "Fight to the Death." against

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1149628294372349962006-06-06T15:58:00.000-05:002006-06-06T16:11:34.416-05:00

Recently a prominent evangelical Pastor indicated that in today's culture-- the Pastor should see himself more as a CEO than a Shepherd. About 15 years ago I was riding with a church planting strategist with the Georgia Baptist Convention. We were doing an area survey to consider possible places for a new church plant. In the midst of the conversation he said something to the effect that in

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1134433396554024682005-12-12T19:20:00.000-05:002005-12-12T19:23:16.566-05:00

A New Christmas Song: "I'll be Home (not at church) For Christmas"Ray Rhodes, Jr. It looks like church attendees of a number of the nation’s mega-churches will be home for Christmas. Christmas falls on Sunday this year and according to at least one advocate for closing up church shop on Christmas--"Christmas is a family day." And according to Cally Parkinson, a leader at Willow Creek Community

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1130481259586101852005-10-27T16:26:00.000-05:002007-04-10T07:23:34.303-05:00

Loving Your Husband With Purpose It must be your objective as a Christian to illustrate, in a very positive manner, the love relationship between Christ and His church. One way that is accomplished is by promoting the well being of your family. The Christian woman participates in this process by loving her husband with purpose.The Bible is a book that promotes, with vigor, women’s liberation. The

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1130347759071093292005-10-26T03:27:00.000-05:002005-10-26T12:29:19.080-05:00

Loving Your Wife With Purpose “He will do whatever it takes to make us holy.” Those words appear on the cover of a book entitled "The Love of God" by John MacArthur. They communicate something of the depth of God’s love for His people demonstrated in His commitment to their holiness (Romans 8:29). The process in which God makes His people holy (Christlike) is called sanctification. Sanctification

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1130206551299554852005-10-25T00:15:00.000-05:002005-10-24T21:15:51.506-05:00

The Well-Nourished FamilyMany parents in Georgia recently expressed anger with Governor Sonny Perdue. What was it that stirred the anger of many a Georgia parent? Well...Governor Sonny Perdue asked that Georgia public schools consider shutting down for two days for the purpose of conserving fuel. Most of the words of criticism seemed to come from mothers of school age children. Why? School is

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18251040.post-1130196556335775492005-10-24T21:29:00.000-05:002005-10-24T18:29:16.340-05:00

What Do You Want in a Church?Need a new computer? Why settle for what the retailer has on the shelf? Today you can "build" your computer. Computer stores offer the option of designing the computer that you desire. You can choose the size of the hard-drive, the amount of memory, the operating system, and almost anything else. While you choose your selections the online calculator calculates your

Ray Rhodes, Jr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00153530484691089158noreply@blogger.com0