The Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists convened in its 172nd annual session hosted by Burke’s Union Church in Blackwater, VA.
The history of what is now called Burke's Union Church goes back to what was originally called Locust Grove Church. This apparently was one of the churches in the Mulberry Gap Association of United Baptists from which The Eastern District Association was formed. The records indicate that the Mulberry Gap Association was held at Zion in 1847.
Zion was one of the original churches of the Eastern District Association when formed in 1848 and hosted the association in 1885, 1902 and 1911. It may have hosted the association from 1850 to 1880, but records are not available of this time period. The association came to this location once again in 1929 with Elder E.A. Robinette, the pastor of the host church and moderator of the association, preaching the introductory sermon and Elder H.S. Laster as the alternate. This time the church had a new name, because around 1920, the doctrine of "No Eternal Punishment to the Wicked" began to be advocated by some in the church. This resulted in a division among the people which, in 1923, caused the association to reject this doctrine and those who believed and taught it. These were excluded from fellowship of the church, while those who believed in the doctrine as it had always been taught continued as part of the association. On August 11, 1926, the property the church now sits on was deeded to the Primitive Baptist Church of Canton by Isaac and Mary Willis. In 1927, a new building was erected, and the name of the church was changed to Burke's Union in honor of Elder W.H. Burke who was instrumental in the fight against the false doctrine and stood firm in the true faith.
Elder Burke served as clerk of the church from 1922 through 1930. In 1931, Sister Lona Robinette was elected clerk where she continued as long as her health would permit. She served the church for approximately 59 years.
Some of those who were active members in the early years of Burke's Union were: C.W. McPherson, Andy Rhoton, Emmett Rhoton, Vastine Roller, Whit and Rebecca Roller, and Charles Roller who later became a minster and lead an effort to build and organize Roller's Chapel Church. Other family names were: the Marion Robinette's, the Jessie P. Robinette's, Bledsoe's, Speers' and Sturgill's.
The list of pastors seems rather long, partly because they have nearly always used two men together as co-pastors since the name changed to Burke's Union. Some others (not listed in order as they served) include: Elders J.H. Sybert, Alex Willis, Logan Willis, Ben Hill, Coy Lawson, Howard Sybert, Carl Lawson, Clarence Arnold, Lloyd McMillian, Bernard Banks, Coy Willis, Echol Legg, Willie Wilson, R.C. Whittemore, Bobby Williams, Gary Carter, Clifford Williams, Corbet Bowen, James Robinson, Roger Trent, Scott Tipton, Bazzle Manis, Virgil Lipe, David Stapleton, Tyler Stapleton, and our current pastor, David Parsons. We would like to thank these men for their concern, care, and dedication that they have shown to the cause of Christ and to the service to the church.
The church burned in the early 40's. At first, the members were very sad and upset thinking they would never be able to rebuild the church building. No regular meetings were dismissed. Services were held at Brother Emmett Rhoton's home and under a big oak tree which stood not far from the where the church once stood. In approximately three months, a new building was built on the original foundation, because the people had a mind to work. Surely God blessed them with His Holy Spirit as He still does today. In 1992, a fellowship building was erected. We were blessed with city water being installed in 2006, and the property on the east side of the church was purchased in 2014. Burke’s Union hosted the Association in 1991, 2022, and again this year. We have been blessed and honored to have the association on these grounds for the past three years. We give God all the honor and glory for everything that has been accomplished over the years. He has been so good to us. Without Him, we are nothing.
God’s children began to gather under the tent for the 172nd annual session of the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists hosted by Burke’s Union Church. Sisters Zula McCullough, Kim Robinette, Brenda Horton, Danita Dodson, and Brother Bradley Brown led the congregation in singing songs of praise to our Blessed Savior. There is joy unspeakable because I know that Jesus saved me, and that’s enough for me. There’ll come a glad day after while when my Lord I’ll see, just over in the Glory-land.
Elder Terry Sizemore, the moderator, welcomed everyone to the 172nd annual gathering of the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists, thanking God for the good number already gathered under the tent. He spoke to the lost, stating his desire for them to be saved.
The moderator reminded everyone to turn in church letters, obituaries, and financial contributions. The Letter Committee for 2024 was appointed beforehand, consisting of Dennis Stewart (chairman), David Horton, Clifton Horne, and R.B. Louthian (alternate).
The moderator appointed the Committee on Religious Exercises, which consists of Steve Hunt (chairman), Ralph Lawson, Jr. and Doug Willis.
The moderator reminded the delegates that ribbons are available.
Sister Zula McCullough led the congregation in singing the Association’s standard song, “Brethren, We Have Met Again” written by Elder I.S. Robinette, Moderator of the Association from at least 1881-1886 (there are no records from 1850-1880). Let us join in prayer and sing. Twelve months more around have rolled since we met this peaceful fold.
Elder David Parsons, the pastor of the host church, came to the stand, raising his hands and praising God. He welcomed everyone to grounds of Burke’s Union Church for the third consecutive year, stating he is looking for a blessing and asking the lost to accept Jesus.
The Moderator asked all ministers to sign the minister’s book, including ministers from other associations and church affiliations.
The moderator stated that Brother David Jerrell acquired a clerk’s journal from Shelby Creek Church. It was given to the Association and will be passed on to the church.
Many praised God for the privilege to attend this year’s Association and prayer requests were made for the lost, the ones affected by Hurricane Helene and the resulting floods, Kaden Sizemore, Greg Johnson, Earl Dodson, Aaron McCoy’s father who had a tree fall on him Vickie Jones, Leah and Nora Jones, Dan and Virgie Cross, the ones unable to attend, Holly Lawson, Jean Brewer, the upcoming revival at Poplar Grove, Geraldine Spurlock, Edna Lane, Jean Wallen, the young man in the Navy, families who lost loved ones, Clifton Horne, the man with cancer, Frank and Juanita Gilliam, Henrietta Adams, Ruby Robinette, the sick at Copper Creek, Flo Minton and her family, Penny VanHoose, Walker and Karlene Bales, Roger VanHoose’s grandchildren, Bruce Collier, Dillon Stewart, and many unspoken requests. Elder Chris Salley came to the stand testifying of the Hope that we have in Christ and led the congregation in prayer, taking those requests to God.
Elder Sizemore asked the congregation to stand and join him in singing “He Got on a Cloud and Went Home.” We’ll shed his old clay when we’re all called away. We’ll get on the cloud and go Home.
Having been chosen to preach the introductory sermon, Elder Curtis Hale came to the stand, stating he was thankful for the heaven-bought privilege to gather with this Grand Old Body for its 172nd meeting. He stated that God is worthy of all praise, and we’re to worship our Lord and Savior in one mind and one accord. Elder Hale took his text from the 6th chapter of Romans, reading the 23rd verse. His thought was that God is the Deliverer. He began by preaching concerning David and Goliath and how David believed, without a doubt, that God would deliver him. His strength wasn’t in himself or the rock, but in God. Just as David was delivered from the battle with Goliath, we are delivered from sin, out of the horrible pit and the miry clay, and set upon the solid rock which is Christ Jesus. The wages of sin is death, and the only way to be delivered is through Jesus, the perfect gift of God. We needed a deliverer, one to provide a free pardon of sin, from the sin that came about by Adam’s disobedience.
Elder David Parsons, chosen as the alternate, followed, preaching from the same thought and text. God told Adam what he would surely die if he ate of the tree of knowledge, that he would be spiritually separated from God. By one man’s disobedience, many were made sinners. We’ve all sinned and come short of the Glory of God, and wages are paid in death, but our sin debt was paid in a death on Calvary. It’s by grace that we are saved though faith, and it’s a gift of God. His grace is always sufficient. All the sacrifices before Jesus could never pay the sin debt. By Jesus, the debt has been paid for the whole world; it’s up to each person whether they accept it or not. Surrender to Him when He deals with your heart. Accept His free gift.
We were adjourned for lunch with fellowship and a song of praise.
Following a delicious lunch seasoned with hospitality and fellowship, the brothers and sisters in Christ joined in singing “How Great Thou Art” and “What a Day That Will Be” to begin the afternoon service. Elder Kevin Cross stood from his seat to preach about the Hope we have in Jesus. There was special singing from Brothers Null Lawson and Antah Johnson.
Prayer requests were made for the lost, the sick, Linda Lucas, Betty Sizemore, Brenda Bowlin, Anita Dixon, those in the nursing homes, Jason Frye, Flo Minton and her grandchildren, Roger Manring, the upcoming revival at Marion Robinette Memorial, Jerry Johnson, Clifton Horne, Mike Horne, Tyler Blakely, Herman Hunt, and many unspoken requests, along with several wonderful testimonies. Elder Roger VanHoose came to the stand to lead the congregation with a humble prayer, begging for mercy for the lost and asking God to bless this congregation. The moderator brought attention to a church that closed in the last year, which was Mountain View Church, praising God for the many souls saved in that place.
Brother Dennis Stewart, Chairman of the Committee on Church Letters, came forward to give the report of our state and standing. The church letter from Wallen’s Creek has not been received. Brother David Horton, spoke on behalf of the committee concerning Irondale. It was recommended that the clerk send a letter to Irondale to check into their standing as a church, as they don’t hold regular services and haven’t been holding the stated Union Meeting for two years. They lettered in each year, and their church letters stated that the Union Meeting would be the only service each year. Their letter was not considered in order. With 33 churches total, it was motioned, seconded, and voted to accept the recommendations of the committee to seat those delegates duly elected or appointed by their respective churches as the voting body of the association.
Discussion was had regarding the state of Irondale. Irondale is not currently functioning as a church. It is believed that the church has not functioned in several years, presumably since the death of Clyde Phillips. It is believed that the deed states services must continue, or the land be returned to the family that donated it. That family may have no living heirs. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to follow the recommendation of the committee, in that the clerk will send a letter to Irondale, asking that they either (1) resume functioning as a church and their letter be accepted or (2) if they continue to not function as a church, then the letter be rejected.
The moderator asked for nominations to serve as moderator pro-tem during the election of the association officials. Elder Oscar Irvin was nominated. No other nominations were made. It was motioned, seconded, and voted for nominations to cease. Elder Irvin came forward to serve during the election.
The moderator asked for nominations to serve as clerk and treasurer of the association. Brother Kevin Hale was nominated, and it was seconded for him to serve as clerk and treasurer. It was motioned and seconded for nominations to cease. Through the vote, he will serve for the ensuing year.
The moderator asked for nominations to serve as moderator of the association. Elder Terry Sizemore was nominated, and it was seconded for him to serve as moderator of the association. It was motioned and seconded for nominations to cease. Through the vote, Elder Sizemore will serve as moderator for the ensuing year.
Elder Sizemore humbly thanked the delegation for the honor and blessing to serve the Association and the vote of confidence. We pray that the Good Lord will give us the wisdom to continue to fulfill our duties to the Association as long as He desires. The moderator asked for a motion and second to allow him to appoint all committees necessary to carry on the business of the association. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the moderator to appoint any and all such committees.
The moderator then appointed the following committees:
Committee on Electrical and PA System: Delmer McPherson (chairman), Scott Mellons, Clifford Bledsoe, Danny Lawson, Adam Lawson, and Curtis Hale.
Committee on Obituaries: Mike Fullington (chairman), Tyler Stapleton, and Hunter Hensley.
Committee on Arrangements and/or Queries: Ministers: Scott Tipton (chairman), Kevin Cross, Oscar Irvin, Jason Robinette, Roger Van Hoose, Daniel Hurd, and Sammy VanHoose.
Committee on Newly Constituted Churches: Ministers: John Banks (chairman), Burnice Sybert, Joseph Robinette; Deacons: Roy Jones, Joe Horton; Laymen: Marvin Moeller, Null Lawson.
Brother Steve Hunt, chairman of the Religious Exercises Committee, came forward to give the committee’s report.
Revival at Copper Creek starting the 1st Sunday in November with David Roller preaching. Starting time is 6:00 pm on Sunday and 7:00 pm after.
The moderator reminded the delegation that Excused Absence forms are available at the clerk’s desk, as well as a Community Service form.
Brother Delmer McPherson, chairman of the Electrical and PA System Committee, came forward to give the report. Brother McPherson began by thanking the Lord for saving his soul and for the wonderful preaching. He also thanked the other members and all the help in preparation and during the Association. He reported that Adam Lawson is live streaming the meeting on Association’s Facebook page. He also reported that two outside speakers have died and need to be replaced. He reported that the mixer board is several years old and may need replacement sometime soon.
Elder Sizemore brought to the delegation that the Electrical and PA System committee may need the authorization/autonomy to purchase necessary supplies to maintain proper system function. It was motioned seconded and voted that the committee be given authorization/autonomy to purchase necessary supplies to maintain proper system function for the Association.
It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the clerk to pay fees and replenish the necessary forms and supplies to properly perform his duties.
It was motioned, seconded, and voted to have all things which are standard printed in the minutes.
It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the clerk $2,000 in appreciation for his services.
It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the moderator $1,000 in appreciation for his services.
It was reported that the doors that were purchased last year were installed on the cookhouse.
The clerk reported all financial transactions of the year to the delegation. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to accept the financial report as read.
It was moved and seconded to allow the clerk to research pricing for insurance (cookhouse, liability, and trailer) for the Association and change providers if a better rate can be found with the same or similar coverage.
It was stated that to-go dinners would be available for anyone that would like one.
Elder Oscar Irvin stated that the offering taken up on Friday could be used for the audio equipment that is need of replacement. No objections were made.
The business being concluded, the delegation was dismissed in prayer by Elder Harmon Willis until Friday morning, October 4, 2024.
The second day of the 172nd Association began as Sister Zula McCullough and Brother Marcel Bledsoe led the congregation in singing songs of Praise to our Savior. Christ hath regarded my helpless estate and hath shed his own blood for my soul. What a day of rejoicing that will be when His children gather in our home beyond the skies.
Elder Terry Sizemore came to the stand singing of God’s Amazing Grace as the congregation joined in praising the Lord. He then welcomed everyone to the House of the Lord, thanking the True and Living God for the gift of salvation by grace through faith.
We were blessed with spiritual testimony and singing from Bradley Brown and then the host church. Nothing can for sin atone, nothing but the blood of Jesus. What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see, where no sin or sorrow e’er can come.
Testimonies were shared, and prayer requests were made for the lost, the sick, Dennis Horton, June Sybert, Randy Lane, Paul Sorcey, the ones affected by and working after the storm and flooding, Earl, Rodney, and Greg Dodson, Mike Fullington’s cousin and family, Flo Minton and her family, Mack Edwards and his wife, Greg and Susan Hood, Chip Moore, Edna Lane, Charles Bernard’s family, many unspoken requests, and several the clerk could not hear. Elder Jason Robinette came to the stand, thanking God for His presence and His blessings and humbly asking God to touch the prayer requests and to save the lost.
The delegation was called to order to transact the business.
It was motioned, seconded and voted to adopt the business proceedings of yesterday as read.
The moderator asked the congregation to stand as Brother Marcel Bledsoe led the congregation in “Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus.”
Elder Joseph Robinette, having been chosen by the Committee on Religious Exercises, came forward to preach the first half of the service, expressing his thanks for all the prayers for his wife and family. He read from the 5th chapter of the Gospel of John, verses 30-42. He then quoted John 14:1 and used the thought, “ye believe in God, believe also in me.” The Jews believed in God, but just believing in God isn’t enough. You must be born again by believing in Christ. God loved you so much, that He gave His Son as a sacrifice before the foundation of the world. Jesus was the only one that was found worthy. Rejoice in the Lord and tell people about Jesus. Walk in the Light and have fellowship with Him. The lost will hear a witness of His Son, so that they might believe upon Him. Call upon Him from the roadside, press through the crowd, sing His praises from the darkest part of the prison. He’ll shake the very foundation and put off those chains that bind you.
Elder Terry Sizemore came forward to take the second half of the preaching service, also preaching from the 5th chapter of John concerning the man at the pool of Bethesda. Jesus asked, “will thou be made whole?” The man told that he couldn’t get in the pool by himself. Jesus told him to take up his bed and walk the healing was accomplished by belief. The Jews were trying to tell Christ what they were accomplishing through their works and traditions. They then sought to kill Him for healing on the Sabbath, but they didn’t understand that He fulfilled that law and there was no justification unless you believe in Jesus. The pool of Bethesda was next to the sheep market, and the shepherd took the sheep to that sheepfold. We found ourselves by the pool, but Jesus called us unto the sheepfold. When we hear Him call, we know His voice, and He will deliver us out of our sin. “He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life..”
The congregation was dismissed for lunch with song and fellowship.
Much fellowship was shared as the host church provided a wonderful and plentiful lunch. Sister Zula McCullough and Brothers Bradley Brown and Marcel Bledsoe led the congregation by singing the songs of Zion. Happy praise to the King, thru eternity sing, in a land where we’ll never grow old. O the joy of that glad meeting. The moderator welcomed the congregation back from lunch, thanking the host churches for the wonderful fellowship and lunch.
The Holy Spirit moved as we were blessed with testimonies and songs of Faith from Millie Hale and Larsyn Bledsoe, Jason Robinette, Joseph Robinette, Shannon Payne, and Stacie Payne, David, Leslie, Katelyn, and Jack Roller, Dennis and Karen Stewart, Roger VanHoose, and Sammy VanHoose, and Jason Henry Robinette. He’s the Solid Rock, the Great I am. His name is Jesus, a name above all other names. Not one time, when I pray, has he turned me away. Thank you, Lord, for all you’ve done for me. There is no other fountain where I could be more satisfied than in the arms of Christ my Savior. What a joy to know to Heaven I’m going. I’ll see Jesus face to face. When we reach that Golden City, we’ll all join Him in triumph; deliverance has come.
Testimonies were shared thanking God for salvation, and prayer requests were made for Leah Bernard’s special request, Jeremy Robinette, JoAnn Longacre, Donna Robinette, Joe and Emma Jean Robinette, August Robinette, Judy and Kenny Taylor, and many unspoken requests. Minister Frank Clark, from the Little Bethlehem United Baptist Church, came forward thanking God for His salvation, His peace, and His joy, then led the congregation with a spiritual prayer.
The delegation was seated in order to transact the business.
Brother Dennis Stewart, Chairman of the Committee on Church Letters, and Brother David Horton came forward stating the letter for Wallen’s Creek has not yet been received.
Brother Steve Hunt came to the stand with a Spirit-filled testimony. He then read the report from the Committee on Religious Exercises and gave details on an upcoming revival.
Revival at Poplar Grove will be starting the 3rd Sunday night in October, and it will be held by Elders Scott Tipton and Curtis Hale.
The clerk read the Resolution of Thanks that he had prepared. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to print it in the minutes.
The moderator reported that there were $5,680 in receipts for the year. We thank each church as they generously give to the Association year after year.
Elder Mike Fullington reported on behalf of the Committee on Obituaries that 31 have been received at this time. A reminder was given to turn in any remaining obituaries within two weeks if it is desired to be included in the 2024 minutes.
Elder John Banks, on behalf of the Committee on Newly Constituted Churches, reported that none had been received this year.
Elder Scott Tipton, on behalf of the Committee on Arrangements and/or Queries, reported that none have been received.
The moderator noted that committees are dismissed upon delivering their final report. The men chosen to write the circular letter for 2024 were Elder Jason Robinette, Elder David Parsons, and Deacon Danny Lawson. The three men came forward, and Brother Danny read their letter. Its message was one of Peace, a Peace that is from God and passeth all understanding. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to print the letter in our minutes as it was read.
The moderator appointed the Committee on Circular Letters for 2025 which includes: Elder Robert Brown, Deacon Cory King, and Ronnie Johnson.
Elder Scott Tipton came forward to discuss the condition of the stage that we use in the tent. The one we have is deteriorating, heavy, and difficult to store. Newer options are available starting at approximately $3,700. They are lighter and stronger. Elder Tipton has offered to look into options. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to replace the stage with the best option.
Brother Ralph Lawson, Jr. led the congregation in singing “A Wonderful Time” as several volunteers took up an offering. A generous donation of $2,301 was received.
The moderator reminded the delegation that only those chosen or appointed by their respective churches as delegates were allowed to vote, and the maximum number of votes per church was 4, if all delegates are present. Likewise, if only one delegate was present, then the church would only have one vote.
There were three churches that asked for the association to meet with them next year. These are Fairview (Bellbrook), Marion Robinette Memorial, and Valley View.
Shannon Payne made the initial plea on behalf of Fairview. Mitch Jessee delivered the first plea for Marion Robinette Memorial. Jason Henry Robinette came forward to ask for the Association to come to Valley View. Elder Joseph Robinette then pled for the Association to be sent to Bellbrook, OH. Elder Curtis Hale stood to bring the second plea for Marion Robinette to host the next Association. The last speaker was Elder Jason Robinette, pleading on behalf of Valley View.
Through the vote, the Association was sent to Marion Robinette Memorial, where, the Good Lord willing, we will convene on the Thursday morning (October 2, 2025) before the first Saturday in October 2025 for the 173rd annual gathering. The introductory and alternate sermons will be preached by Elders Oscar Irvin and Curtis Hale, respectively.
Elder Gary Hall dismissed the congregation in a word of prayer, thanking the Lord for this wonderful time together.
We were adjourned until Saturday morning, October 5, 2024.
The sunlight began to drive off the fog and shine on God’s children as we gathered under the tent for our Saturday service. Brother Marcel Bledsoe led the congregation in songs about Heaven and eternal life with our Savior. Thank God for that wonderful hope we have beyond this life.
Elder Terry Sizemore welcomed everyone to our Saturday morning memorial service and thanked God for Spiritual blessings this week.
Special singing was shared by Sisters Doris Fee and Louella Bledsoe. Where could I go but to the Lord? Life here is grand, but the Lifeboat soon is coming to rescue you and me. It’s almost here and our trials will soon be o’er.
Testimonies were shared to glorify God and prayer requests were made for the lost, the sick, our churches, Clifton Horne, Hunter Hensley’s Dad and Papaw, the ones affected by the storm and flooding and those working on the disaster recovery efforts, two young children with cancer, Tommy Meade, the upcoming revivals, Dennis Horton, our young ministers, Danny Lawson’s grandchildren, Daniel Hurd, Sherrie Brown, and many unnamed and unspoken requests. Brother Bradley Bowen led us to the Lord in Prayer, thanking God for the privilege to be here, and asking Him to bless the preaching of the Gospel and to save the lost.
The delegation was seated in order to transact the business.
It was motioned, seconded, and voted to adopt the business proceedings of yesterday as read.
Brother Dennis Stewart, Chairman of the Committee on Church Letters, and Brother David Horton came forward stating the letter for Wallen’s Creek has been received. The letter from Wallen’s Creek was found to be not in order, and the committee recommended tabling the letter. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to follow the recommendation of the committee to table that letter.
The Letter Committee for 2025 was appointed: David Horton (chairman), Clifton Horne, R.B. Louthian, and Danny Lawson (alternate).
Elder David Parsons came forward on behalf of the host church, giving thanks to God. He also extended special thanks to: Maynard, Cammie and Emmett Bledsoe for use of their land, their Wi-Fi, and their generator when the power was out; Kenny Bledsoe for watching the tent at night; David Horton for getting water and donuts; Joe Horton for getting water; all the ones that attended the Association and donated desserts.
Brother Steve Hunt, chair of the Committee on Religious Exercises, stated that there were no changes in services since yesterday.
It was stated that the Electrical and PA system, primarily Adam Lawson, could help get announcements on the website, if desired. We certainly appreciate all the work he does for the Association.
The moderator led the congregation in singing “It’s Still the Blood,” followed by special singing from Kim Robinette, Wilma Bledsoe, and David and Wanda Parsons. I can hear the singing of the ones that reached their goal of the Happy Home Sweet Home. When we leave this house made of clay, we’ll move to that eternal home.
For many years, the Saturday morning service has been dedicated as a memorial service for those saints who have been called home to Heaven. The moderator read the names of those saints that have gained their eternal reward in the past year. It’s important to know that you’re ready to go.
Elder Jason Robinette, who was chosen to take the first part of the preaching service by the Committee on Religious Exercises, came to the stand singing “Farther On” and reading from the first chapter of the First Epistle of Peter, verses 3-13, using the thought, “the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” At the appearing of Christ, we found ourselves lost and undone. Jesus appeared, without sin, unto salvation. We receive grace if we accept Jesus when He appears unto us. He isn’t done with His grace, but it continues to be shed upon us. We are justified by faith, have peace though Christ, and access unto His grace. His amazing grace brought us safe this far and will lead us Home. At the revelation of Jesus Christ, when He comes back, He’ll bring grace. He will return to bring the dead in Christ out of the grave, and every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God. Our life is hid in Christ. If we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we will appear with Him in Glory. At the revelation of Jesus Christ, He will descend from Heaven with a shout and the voice of an archangel. The dead in Christ rise first, then those that remain will be changed. According to His abundant mercy, He has begotten us again unto a lively hope.
Elder Oscar Irvin came to the stand to preach the next part of the memorial service, using the same text. It takes the Spirit to reveal Christ as real. Christ is God wrapped in the flesh, and we must believe on Him. We all died in Adam, and the only way to regain life is by the resurrection of Jesus. If we live, we live unto the lord; if we die, we die unto the lord. We go down in weakness. The house of clay will fail, as it’s temporary. The soul inside is eternal. It is begotten again unto a lively hope. Death allows the soul to take flight. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. We’ll lay this house of clay aside, when the Lord calls. Those that have part in second resurrection will have no part in the second death. We know if this earthly house is dissolved, the have another building, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Elder Robert Brown was chosen to preach the final portion of the memorial service, and he preached from the same scripture. When revelation comes, we understand more and more of what we have in Christ. We have grace through faith in Jesus, who God sent to suffer and die. On the way to the Promise Land, the Children of Israel found the river of Jordan was flooded, but the water rolled back in a heap. When we were saved, the water rolled back, and we walked across on dry ground to become a child of God. He’s able to save anyone that comes humble and with a contrite spirit and confesses Jesus Christ, just like the thief on the cross beside Him. Jesus became sin, took all our sins, died our death, took our place, and became our substitute. God provided Jesus as the substitute, just like the ram was provided for Abraham. He provided the perfect sacrifice, the Lamb that took away the sins of the whole world. He’s mighty to save the lost and substitute an eternal death with eternal life.
Thanks be to God for the messages this morning, and what a blessing to know Him and Know He’s coming back to get His own. In the presence of His Holy Spirit is the best place to be.
Elder Burnice Sybert shared words of encouragement, then dismissed the congregation with a humble prayer. We were adjourned until Sunday morning, October 6, 2024.
Several churches gathered under the tent once again for the Sunday morning service of the 172nd annual meeting of our beloved Association.
The congregational singing was led by Brother Carl Osborne, Elder Scott Tipton, and Sister Wanda Parsons, praising God with each song. Happy in Glory someday I shall be, because I have been redeemed. We’ll share the glory of His resurrection when the roll is called up yonder. A wonderful Savior is He!
Elder David Parsons welcomed the congregation to the grounds of Burke’s Union for the final service of this Association. It would be a great morning to see a lost soul be redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb. He asked each one in attendance to worship the Lord, because He is worthy.
We were blessed by spiritual singing and testimony from Amy Bledsoe, Larsyn Bledsoe, and Millie Hale, Carl Osborne, Ada McPherson, Caylee McConnell, and Jackson Osborne. The King above all other kings is not too busy to care about you. Our preparations have been made for our soul to take a flight Home when Jesus comes back. Our hope is anchored in the blood of the Precious Lamb of God.
Spirit-filled testimonies were shared, and prayer requests were made for the lost, the sick, the ones whose lives were devastated by the storms and flooding, the John Sanders family, our children, and many special unspoken requests. Elder Keith Holt came to the stand to lead us to the Throne of Grace, thanking God for His mercy, grace, and love and asking for His Spirit to revive us to be a witness to a lost and dying world.
Elder Chris Salley came to take the first part of the preaching service, reading the entirety of the second chapter of the First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians, using the fifth verse as his thought, “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” We’ve seen how the power of God has moved so many times. We can trust Him in the big things and in the little things. Man can only do so much, but God is not limited. His power can draw a lost soul to an altar of repentance. There is not a sin that the Blood Atonement cannot forgive. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen. We have something that the world can’t take away. We have faith in the power of God to deliver lost souls.
Elder Kevin Cross came forward for the second part of the service, singing “Old-Time Religion.” He began by telling of how the children of Israel were to tell their families how God brought them out of bondage, how He brought them through the wilderness, how their shoes didn’t wear out, and how He fed them. By grace, God delivered them into Canaan land. Under covenant of grace, he set forth the foundation of salvation. Jesus took on the robe of flesh and became the Kingdom of God that was at hand. Jesus ministered unto His disciples in truth, telling them to spread His word, and as many as call on God in His Name shall be saved. Thank God for sparing lost souls one more day and for another opportunity for them to be able to accept Jesus. The Gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation. Our faith comes from Heaven’s glory; there’s a truth and sureness of it. The hope is laid up for you in Glory. That blessed hope is at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
Hunter Hensley came to the stand and read from John Chapter 4. He then spoke of how God wants each one of us and wants us to worship Him.
Elder Scott Tipton came to take the final part of the preaching service, rereading 1 Corinthians 2:5. God spoke this world into existence with His power. When Adam and Eve listened to Satan, they put their faith in man’s wisdom. The power of God put Satan upon his belly. The power of God brought pain in childbirth. The power of God caused Man to have to work by the sweat of his brow. Sin relies on man’s wisdom. The power of God gave Noah the knowledge to build the ark. Man’s wisdom told them that it wasn’t going to rain. God’s power moved upon Mary and Jesus was born, and the same power brought Jesus back to life. Man’s wisdom says it wasn’t possible and doesn’t believe. We are saved by the power of His resurrection, He will use us through His power, and the power of God will raise us up when Jesus comes back.
The congregation sang Amazing Grace as they fellowshipped with one another. There has been a sweet spirit all week, and God has certainly blessed. I pray that God will continue to bless us throughout the year and again when we gather in Tennessee with Marion Robinette Memorial for the 173rd annual session of the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists.