The last few mornings, there have been glorious reminders of Fall, with a wonderful crispness in the air.  Fall is in the air at FBC, too.  I’ve been working hard this summer on two opportunities for growth in God’s Word:

First, on Sunday mornings this Fall, beginning September 14, we’ll be walking through Genesis 1-11.  This Fall series is called Back to the Beginning.  I am so excited about this study!  These first eleven chapters of the Bible are so incredibly foundational to understanding the rest of Scripture.  It is impossible to overstate their importance.  In this series, we’ll see this clearly.  And, as always, we’ll see the Savior clearly. 

Second, on Wednesday nights this Fall, we’ll be walking through the Epistle of James.  Again, I am so excited about this.  As I have marinated in James over the summer, I have been blown away.  The Spirit has been using my study of this practical and powerful letter to challenge me, to “get in my face.”  James pulls no punches!  But at the same time, James speaks to us as “dearly loved brothers and sisters.”  His exhortations are filled with encouragement.   

We’ll begin this study on Wednesday, September 10.  Each Wednesday, we will begin at 6:00 and end no later than 7:00.  I really hope you’ll be a part of this study.  On Wednesday nights, there is plenty of time for Q & A as we probe the text together and help one another.  You won’t regret being in this study.  All you need is an open Bible and an open heart, eager to grow in Christ.

This Sunday, I am taking a break between preaching series’ and my good friend, Dr. Jeff Ginn, will be preaching.  Jeff and I go “way back.”  Our friendship dates back more than 20 years, when we were both Virginia pastors, serving together as Trustees of the International Mission Board.  Jeff and Nell’s heart is missions.  They served as IMB missionaries in Latin America, and eventually Jeff took on the role of Affinity Group Leader for American Peoples, overseeing all of our work in South and Central America.  He now serves as Vice-President for Mobilization with the IMB, giving leadership nationwide to help SBC churches carry out the Great Commission. 

Jeff is a gifted preacher – one of my favorites – and I’ve asked him to bring a message that will be appropriate on the first Sunday of a new church year.  Jeff has filled the FBC pulpit many times and is loved by our church.  I know you’ll be glad to see him again. 

We are set up for a great Fall and a great new church year! 

By His Grace, For His Glory, To The Nations,

Dr. Thurman Hayes, Jr.