The winter teen retreats are almost here…

Join us for February 17-19, 24-26, 2012!

Some of the most exciting events at NBBI have been our annual Teen Retreats held over two different weekends in February. Well over 400 teenager’s crowd our campus over the course of these two weekends to enjoy great singing, hear challenging messages from Gods Word, meet lots of new friends, hang out with our students, and play some wacky and wild games. Listen to what others are saying about our retreats.

“Hey!!! I just wanted to tell you guys that NBBI teen retreat was the best thing ever!!!! It really let me get close to God…I met lots of new people and can’t wait to see them again.”  Retreater

“My daughter attended the youth retreat the first weekend. I just wanted to tell you folks that she had an incredible weekend. She really enjoyed and learned through the teaching/preaching and she had fun with the activities as well. So, thank you NBBI for what you do and the work you all put into the youth for these retreats. She wants to go to NBBI when she is finished high school after spending the weekend there!” Mom of Retreater

NBBI is passionate about training young people in the truth of God’s Word. One of these retreats could be a life-changing experience for you. Are you willing to come and have God do a work in your life? Why not join us for a weekend!

Post by: Matthew Little, NBBI Faculty, Teen Retreat Committee

You can get more information about our teen retreats and sign up online by visiting this link.

http://nbbi.ca/teens

Below you will find pdf copy of the February 2012 Open Bible Bulletin. If you would like to see all the online articles from our monthly Open Bible Bulletin (current and past) please visit this link:

http://nbbi.ca/category/open-bible-bulletin/

Below is the pdf copy of the January 2012 NBBI Open Bible Bulletin. We will be posting the individual articles separately in the coming days.

(Updated: December 31, 2011)

This audio message was recorded at the NBBI Transforming Faith Ladies’ Conference on the afternoon of October 22, 2011.  In this message, Gracia Burnham (NTM Missionary) shares about her year long captivity at the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Muslim extremists in the Philippines and how God is using that experience to transform people through faith in Jesus Christ.

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

This audio message was recorded at the NBBI Transforming Faith Ladies’ Conference on the morning of October 22, 2011. In this message, Gracia Burnham (NTM Missionary) shares about her year long captivity at the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Muslim extremists in the Philippines and how God is used that experience to bring about healing through forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

This testimony was given by Tilly Grant (Missionary wife serving in Bolivia with New Tribes Mission) at our Transforming Faith Ladies’ Conference on October 22, 2011.

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

This testimony was given by Lily Muir (Missionary wife serving in Bolivia with Pioneers) at our Transforming Faith Ladies’ Conference on October 22, 2011.

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

This audio message was recorded at the NBBI Transforming Faith Ladies’ Conference on the evening of October 21, 2011. Our speaker is Gracia Burnham with New Tribes Mission. In this message, Gracia shares about her year long captivity with the Abu Asayyaf Muslim extremists in the Philippines and how that experience helped transform her.

This audio message was recorded at the NBBI Chapel on the morning of October 21, 2011. Our speaker is Gracia Burnham with New Tribes Mission.  In this testimony, Gracia shares about her year long captivity with the Abu Sayyaf Muslim extremists in the Philippines and what God is doing since that time.

The video of this session can also be found at: http://www.ustream.tv/user/nbbi/videos

This fun-filled weekend is for grades 2 to 6. Get your children ready for some good Bible teaching, carnival booths, puppets, games and more! Swimming at the Civic Centre in Woodstock is also part of this weekend.

Our students are on hand at all times and your children will be well cared for. Get ready for “Kids’ Quest.”

Important Information Concerning This Retreat

Location: “Kids’ Quest” will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB, at 2335 Route 103 and approximately 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME.

Click here for directions using Google Maps.

Dates: Friday, September 30 – Saturday, October 1.

Grade Limit: All children grades 2-6.

Application Process: The total cost for the retreat is $35. This fee must accompany the registration form. A clean photocopy of the form is acceptable. You can use our online form below. Payment can be made by mailing in a cheque or money order or by calling 506- 375-9000 with your Visa or Mastercard number. No application will be considered complete without the payment of fees.

Acceptance: Acceptance will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis according to the postage date of your application or the date payment is made by phone. Space is limited, so register Early! We will notify you of your acceptance by email if an address is provided. Otherwise, your acceptance letter will be sent by mail.

Registration: Registration will be held on Friday night at 6:00 (Atlantic time). Children are expected to arrive after supper. The Friday evening meal will not be provided.

Activities: This retreat will include Bible lessons, singing, carnival games, barrel ball and many other activities. Retreaters will also be going swimming in Woodstock.

What to Bring: Bring a Bible, a notebook and pen, a sleeping bag and pillow, a tooth brush and tooth paste, soap, a towel & face cloth, a comb, a change of clothing (suitable for games) sneakers and a modest swimsuit. (It may be helpful to have name-tags on as many items as possible. New Brunswick Bible Institute will not be responsible for articles left behind.)

US Citizens: Children from the USA, under the age of 16, will need to have their birth certificate (or other form of proof of citizenship such as a naturalization certificate). The original birth certificate or a copy may be used. US customs are now requiring all adults to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US. Visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for more information.

If necessary, NBBI will send a van to pick up children in Houlton, Maine for adults not having one of the above forms of identification. Please call ahead for more information.

US citizens are also advised to make sure they are covered by their insurance company while outside the country.

Please Note: No accommodations or meals will be provided after the retreat has ended at 4:00 pm on Saturday.

Leaders (Drivers): Registration is required for ALL. The fee for leaders (drivers) is only $15. No more than one leader (over 18 years of age) may come with each five children. Leaders who remain on campus are responsible for their children for the entire weekend and are encouraged to accompany them to all activities. Please fill in a leader application form. If you don’t have one, call (506) 375-9000 or fill out the online form by following the links below:

• Kids’ Quest Online Registration Form
• Driver/Leader Online Registration Form

See schedule of events below…

Remember to set aside October 21-22, 2011 for our Ladies’ Conference with Gracia Burnham. We will also enjoy testimonies, special music and great fellowship.

Gracia Burnham is the widow of Martin Burnham and the mother of Jeff, Mindy and Zach. For 17 years she and Martin served with New Tribes Mission in the Philippines where Martin was a jungle pilot delivering mail, supplies and encouragement to other missionaries, and transporting sick and injured patients to medical facilities. Gracia served in various roles supporting the aviation program and also home-schooled their children–all of whom were born in the Philippines.

While celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary at Dos Palmas Resort off Palawan Island, the Burnhams were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by the Abu Sayyaf Group, a militant group of Muslims. They seized several more guests and took them to Basilan Island, an ASG stronghold. In the ensuing months some of the hostages were killed, but most were set free. From November 2001, only the Burnhams and one ther hostage remained in captivity. During their 376 days of captivity, they faced near starvation, constant exhaustion, frequent gun battles, coldhearted murder and intense soul-searching about a God who sometimes seemed to have forgotten them. On June 7, 2002, in a firefight between the Philippine military and the Abu Sayyaf Group, Martin was killed. Gracia was wounded, but was freed.

Since that time Gracia has authored two books, In the Presence of My Enemies, and To Fly Again. Her oldest son, Jeff, and his wife, Sarah, have accepted an assignment with Flying Mission Services in Botswana, Africa. Mindy is now married to Andy Hedvall, a “missionary kid” from South America. Mindy has completed her course of study at New Tribes Bible Institute in Waukesha, WI and Andy continues in his training there. Zachary is attending Butler County Community College on a voice scholarship. Gracia resides in Rose Hill, Kansas. Because of her unique story, Gracia is a popular speaker for churches, conferences and schools.

For more information about Gracia visit her website at: http://www.graciaburnham.org/

Looking forward to seeing you here!

Location

This conference will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB and 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME, at 2335 Route 103 in Victoria Corner, NB.

Click here for directions to NBBI using Google Maps.

Accommodations

On Campus – No charge in dormitory (4 individuals to a room). Space is limited so register early!

Off Campus – For your convenience we have a list of area motels. (Registration for the conference is still necessary.)

Age

To attend this rally, you must be 18 years of age or older.

Conference Costs (including meals)

Individuals: $40.00 (Canadian dollars)

This amount must be paid before your registration will be completed. Payment can be made by mailing in a cheque or money order or by calling 506-375-9000 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Atlantic Time) with your Visa or Mastercard number. We do have limited seating, so register without delay.

Mail cheques payable to:

New Brunswick Bible Institute
2335 Route 103
Victoria Corner, NB E7P 1C7
Canada

Phone: (506) 375-9000

US Citizens:

US customs are now requiring all adults to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US. See the U.S. State Department’s website for details.

You can also download this brochure in a printable format at: http://nbbi.ca/retreats/2011Ladiesbrochure.pdf

September 16, 2011 – Sorry but this conference is full to capacity and we are no longer accepting new registrations.

Online Registration:

Online Form Closed

If you can not see the online registration form please visit this post at: http://nbbi.ca/2011/07/07/transforming-faith-ladies-conference/

Schedule of Events

Friday Evening, October 21, 2011

5:30 PM  – Registration

7:15 PM – Getting to know you time

8:00 PM – Evening Rally

Fellowship time after the evening rally

Saturday, October 22, 2011

7:00 AM – Breakfast

9:00 AM – First Rally

10:00 AM – Refreshments

10:30 AM – Second Rally

12:00 PM – Noon Meal

1:30 PM – Your input

2:00 PM – Closing Rally

Upperclassmen registration  – Thu., Sep. 1
Freshmen registration – Sat., Sep. 3
Module 1 begins – Mon., Sep. 5
Harvest Fest – Sat., Sep. 17
Kids’ Quest (children’s retreat) – Fri.-Sat., Sep. 30-Oct. 1
Exam day – Mon., Oct. 3
Module 2 begins – Tue., Oct. 4
Canadian Thanksgiving weekend – Sat.-Tue., Oct. 8-11
Transforming Faith (ladies’ retreat) – Fri.-Sat., Oct. 21-22
Exam day – Fri., Nov. 3
Module 3 begins – Fri., Nov. 4
College for a Day – Thu.-Sat., Nov. 10-12
U.S. Thanksgiving weekend – Thu.-Sun., Nov. 24-27
Christmas banquet and program – Fri., Dec. 2
Exam days – Wed.-Fri., Dec. 7-9
Christmas vacation – Fri.-Sun., Dec. 9-Jan. 8

However, we will be webcasting our meetings live for those unable to attend on our NBBI Facebook page at the following URL:

https://www.facebook.com/nbbi.ca?sk=app_196506863720166

You will also be able to see the broadcast feed at http://nbbi.ca/live or at http://ustream.com/user/nbbi

See schedule of events below…

Remember to set aside October 21-22, 2011 for our Ladies’ Conference with Gracia Burnham. We will also enjoy testimonies, special music and great fellowship.

Gracia Burnham is the widow of Martin Burnham and the mother of Jeff, Mindy and Zach. For 17 years she and Martin served with New Tribes Mission in the Philippines where Martin was a jungle pilot delivering mail, supplies and encouragement to other missionaries, and transporting sick and injured patients to medical facilities. Gracia served in various roles supporting the aviation program and also home-schooled their children–all of whom were born in the Philippines.

While celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary at Dos Palmas Resort off Palawan Island, the Burnhams were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by the Abu Sayyaf Group, a militant group of Muslims. They seized several more guests and took them to Basilan Island, an ASG stronghold. In the ensuing months some of the hostages were killed, but most were set free. From November 2001, only the Burnhams and one ther hostage remained in captivity. During their 376 days of captivity, they faced near starvation, constant exhaustion, frequent gun battles, coldhearted murder and intense soul-searching about a God who sometimes seemed to have forgotten them. On June 7, 2002, in a firefight between the Philippine military and the Abu Sayyaf Group, Martin was killed. Gracia was wounded, but was freed.

Since that time Gracia has authored two books, In the Presence of My Enemies, and To Fly Again. Her oldest son, Jeff, and his wife, Sarah, have accepted an assignment with Flying Mission Services in Botswana, Africa. Mindy is now married to Andy Hedvall, a “missionary kid” from South America. Mindy has completed her course of study at New Tribes Bible Institute in Waukesha, WI and Andy continues in his training there. Zachary is attending Butler County Community College on a voice scholarship. Gracia resides in Rose Hill, Kansas. Because of her unique story, Gracia is a popular speaker for churches, conferences and schools.

For more information about Gracia visit her website at: http://www.graciaburnham.org/

Looking forward to seeing you here!

Location

This conference will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB and 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME, at 2335 Route 103 in Victoria Corner, NB.

Click here for directions to NBBI using Google Maps.

Accommodations

On Campus – No charge in dormitory (4 individuals to a room). Space is limited so register early!

Off Campus – For your convenience we have a list of area motels. (Registration for the conference is still necessary.)

Age

To attend this rally, you must be 18 years of age or older.

Conference Costs (including meals)

Individuals: $40.00 (Canadian dollars)

This amount must be paid before your registration will be completed. Payment can be made by mailing in a cheque or money order or by calling 506-375-9000 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Atlantic Time) with your Visa or Mastercard number. We do have limited seating, so register without delay.

Mail cheques payable to:

New Brunswick Bible Institute
2335 Route 103
Victoria Corner, NB E7P 1C7
Canada

Phone: (506) 375-9000

US Citizens:

US customs are now requiring all adults to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US. See the U.S. State Department’s website for details.

Online Registration:

Online Form Closed

Schedule of Events

Friday Evening, October 21, 2011

5:30 PM  – Registration

7:15 PM – Getting to know you time

8:00 PM – Evening Rally

Fellowship time after the evening rally

Saturday, October 22, 2011

7:00 AM – Breakfast

9:00 AM – First Rally

10:00 AM – Refreshments

10:30 AM – Second Rally

12:00 PM – Noon Meal

1:30 PM – Your input

2:00 PM – Closing Rally

This fun-filled weekend is for grades 2 to 6. Get your children ready for some good Bible teaching, carnival booths, puppets, games and more! Swimming at the Civic Centre in Woodstock is also part of this weekend.

Our students are on hand at all times and your children will be well cared for. Get ready for “Kids’ Quest.”

Important Information Concerning This Retreat

Location: “Kids’ Quest” will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB, at 2335 Route 103 and approximately 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME.

Click here for directions using Google Maps.

Dates: Friday, September 30 – Saturday, October 1.

Grade Limit: All children grades 2-6.

Application Process: The total cost for the retreat is $35. This fee must accompany the registration form. A clean photocopy of the form is acceptable. You can use our online form below. Payment can be made by mailing in a cheque or money order or by calling 506- 375-9000 with your Visa or Mastercard number. No application will be considered complete without the payment of fees.

Acceptance: Acceptance will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis according to the postage date of your application or the date payment is made by phone. Space is limited, so register Early! We will notify you of your acceptance by email if an address is provided. Otherwise, your acceptance letter will be sent by mail.

Registration: Registration will be held on Friday night at 6:00 (Atlantic time). Children are expected to arrive after supper. The Friday evening meal will not be provided.

Activities: This retreat will include Bible lessons, singing, carnival games, barrel ball and many other activities. Retreaters will also be going swimming in Woodstock.

What to Bring: Bring a Bible, a notebook and pen, a sleeping bag and pillow, a tooth brush and tooth paste, soap, a towel & face cloth, a comb, a change of clothing (suitable for games) sneakers and a modest swimsuit. (It may be helpful to have nametags on as many items as possible. New Brunswick Bible Institute will not be responsible for articles left behind.)

US Citizens: Children from the USA, under the age of 16, will need to have their birth certificate (or other form of proof of citizenship such as a naturalization certificate). The original birth certificate or a copy may be used. US customs are now requiring all adults to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US. Visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for more information.

If necessary, NBBI will send a van to pick up children in Houlton, Maine for adults not having one of the above forms of identification. Please call ahead for more information.

US citizens are also advised to make sure they are covered by their insurance company while outside the country.

Please Note: No accommodations or meals will be provided after the retreat has ended at 4:00 pm on Saturday.

Leaders (Drivers): Registration is required for ALL. The fee for leaders (drivers) is only $15. No more than one leader (over 18 years of age) may come with each five children. Leaders who remain on campus are responsible for their children for the entire weekend and are encouraged to accompany them to all activities. Please fill in a leader application form. If you don’t have one, call (506) 375-9000 or fill out the online form by following the links below:

• Kids’ Quest Online Registration Form
• Driver/Leader Online Registration Form

This is my third visit to NBBI and Marlene’s second. Two years ago I spoke at the “Men for God” rally that took place in January. Besides the enthusiasm of the 450 men that weekend, I mostly remember seeing more snow than I’ve ever seen in my whole life, including during all the years we spent in Chicago. Snow that was five or six feet deep in some places. Mountains of snow. But that was nothing, they said. Sometimes they get lots of snow in New Brunswick.

By contrast this week we’ve had no snow, though they said they had 5 1/2 inches in nearby Maine last week. Someone said it could snow as late as June, which ought to be illegal if you ask me. Mostly it’s been clear and chilly or clear and warm, and one morning we had fog rising over the fast-flowing St. John River across the road from the campus.

NBBI started over sixty years ago to provide Bible training for young people in eastern Canada and New England. The school is located in a rather unlikely place. You drive down a country road that follows the winding St. John River, you turn a corner and there it is, a 100-acre campus built on a hillside.

Over the decades hundreds of graduates have gone from NBBI to pastor in towns and villages in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and many of them have gone to Maine and other parts of New England. Still others have served in mission agencies in Canada and the US and around the world.

To me NBBI seems like an outpost on the front lines of Christian ministry. Everyone agrees that the Maritime provinces are not an easy area for the gospel. Churches here tend to be quite small. A church of 300 would be very large indeed. Progress is often slow so you need some grit in your soul to stay at it.

Because we’ve been here before, we have quite a few friends at NBBI. It’s been good to renew our friendship with president Barry Beebe and his wife Linda along with other faculty and staff members. We’ve run into quite a few people who know about Keep Believing Ministries.

I’ve been speaking this week on the miracles of Christ. This morning I give my final message from John 21 entitled “What Christ Does With Failure.” Marlene spoke to the ladies twice. We are joined by the Crutchfields, a very talented and winsome young couple who sing “progressive gospel music.”

After the commencement service we’ll make the five-hour drive from NBBI to Brunswick, Maine for a pastors conference on Tuesday. And, yes, this time we remembered to bring our passports.

We have been very impressed by the spirit here. I noticed immediately that people listen intently as I am preaching. And they love to sing. It’s very clear that the students and the faculty have a close relationship. The services have been building in momentum during the weekend. I know we throw about the term “family spirit” a lot, but at NBBI they really are a family. We’ve had graduates from forty and fifty and even sixty years ago with us at the conference.

It’s been fun to be here this week. From this hillside in New Brunswick, they are training the next generation of Christian leaders. We’re glad to be a small part of the big thing God is doing at NBBI.

Posted by: Ray Pritchard – Keep Believing Ministries

Editor’s Note: To listen or download the 2011 NBBI Spring Conference messages delivered by Dr. Ray Pritchard, visit this link: http://nbbi.ca/category/podcast/ray-pritchard/.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Give Them Something to Eat – Mark 6:37

(A commencement message to the graduates of New Brunswick Bible Institute, May 1, 2011.)

As I pondered what I should say to you this afternoon, my mind was drawn to the only miracle of Jesus repeated in all four gospels. We know that if something is given once in the Bible, it is true and we should believe it, but when the Holy Spirit repeats himself, it must because there is a lesson of surpassing importance. There is one miracle and only one that Matthew, Mark, Luke and John all record. I refer of course to the story of the feeding of the 5000.

I want to focus on just one detail of the story. When the great multitude came to Jesus in the wilderness, he was moved with compassion because he saw they were tired and hungry. Late in the day his disciples suggested that he send the people home so they could find something to eat. Mark 6:35-37 (NKJV) tells us what happened next:

You know the rest of the story, how the found the lad with five loaves and two fish and how Jesus blessed that meager lunch so that it fed 5000 men with 12 baskets left over.

This is one of the great miracles of the Bible. 5000 hungry men show up uninvited and then stay for supper. Imagine ordering 5000 pizzas-deep-dish, Chicago-style, of course. That would cost a pretty penny. Suppose you had to feed 5000 men tonight. What would you do?

It’s late, the people are tired and hungry, and the local Burger King is closed for remodeling. The nearest Tim Horton’s is in Jerusalem, and Pizza Hut doesn’t deliver to the wilderness. The disciples make a very practical suggestion: “Send them away and let them find food.” That’s logical. The suggestion is not made from bad motives. In themselves the disciples had no resources to meet this enormous need. They had no food and no money. What else could they do? Answer: They could do nothing!

They didn’t see 5000 people; they saw 5000 problems they couldn’t solve.

Most of us would have said the same thing. We’re quick to see what we can’t do and quick to talk about what we don’t have. The disciples saw the crowds and realized their inadequacy. Somehow they forgot that the Son of God was standing right there with them.

The Grand Adventure of Helping Others

I love it when Jesus says, “You give them something to eat” (verse 37). It’s funny because the disciples have just gotten through explaining why they can’t feed this massive crowd. One wonders if they were thinking something like this: “You want us to feed this crowd? You gotta be kidding! Didn’t you hear what we just said? We don’t have any money and we don’t have any food. What we have here is a failure to communicate.” But Jesus wouldn’t let his men off the hook. He wants them to get involved in the grand adventure of helping others.

This is how Jesus often works with his followers. Over and over again he puts us in positions where we are helpless, and then he says, “Do something!” In our desperation we cry out to heaven, “How?” and he replies, “I’m glad you asked.” It’s not that Jesus wants us to fail, but he does want us to know that without him we can do nothing. Our success depends totally upon him, and the sooner we learn that, the happier we will be.

John’s account of this miracle tells us that it was Andrew who found the young boy with the five loaves and two fish and brought him to Jesus. We should not miss the obvious lesson here: Don’t ever despise the day of small things. Just because something is small or seemingly insignificant doesn’t mean God can’t use it. He used a baby’s tears to attract Pharaoh’s daughter, and the infant Moses was saved from certain death. Later he used Moses’ rod to deliver the children of Israel. And still later a teenage boy named David used one smooth stone to defeat mighty Goliath. Now Jesus is about to feed 5000 men with five biscuits and two fish. Size doesn’t matter with God. He can use anything we offer to him.

Stressful Situations

As I stand back and ponder this wonderful miracle, one truth seems to stand above all the rest. If you like, call this the moral of the story: God often puts us in situations where we are doomed to failure in order to force us to depend totally on him so that when the miracle comes, he alone gets the credit. This is a divine strategy repeated many times in the Bible and in our own experience. We often find ourselves in desperate straits with no way out, no good options, and no human way of remedying our situation. God allows this to happen so that we will cry out to him. And when the deliverance comes, we are obliged to give God the total credit.

Let’s wrap up this message with three lessons that seem especially appropriate for our graduates today. Almost all of us you will go out from here to minister in challenging situations. Sooner or later (probably sooner for most of you), you will come to the end of your knowledge, your wisdom, your skill, your strength, your eloquence, your creativity, and your personal charm. The ministry has a way of stripping away our self-sufficiency and showing us how weak we really are.

When that happens, you’ll discover what you really believe. You learned theology from your professors, but you’ll discover what you actually believe when the moment of crisis comes and Jesus says to you, “Give them something to eat.”

Believe me, it’s a stressful thing to have no money, no manpower, and no way to meet the needs in front of you. And still Jesus says to you what he said to his men so long ago, “These people are hungry. Give them something to eat.”

Impossible, Difficult, Done

Lesson #1: The fact that something is impossible is no excuse for not trying to do it. All too often we conclude that something can’t be done so we don’t bother trying to do it. If Moses had taken that attitude, the Jews would still be in Egypt. If Joshua had felt that way, the walls of Jericho would still be standing. If David had adopted that opinion, Goliath would still be terrorizing the Israelites. You never know in advance what God may do so don’t rule out the possibility of a miracle coming your way.

Lesson #2: God asks us to do the impossible and then he gives whatever we need to obey his command. Erwin Lutzer points that Jesus often told people to do impossible things. To a lame man he said, “Rise, pick up your bed, and walk.” To a dead man, he cried out, “Lazarus, come forth.” There is a sense in which every command of God is impossible for us to obey. We always lack what we need to obey God’s commands. But God is faithful to give us whatever we need when we ask him. What God demands, he supplies. He “bids us fly and gives us wings.”

Lesson #3: When we offer our meager resources to God, we discover that the impossible isn’t. Years ago I ran across a quote from J. Hudson Taylor, a great man of faith whose missionary efforts helped open China to the gospel. Time and again he saw God do amazing things in the face of hopeless circumstances and murderous hostility. Reflecting on his experiences, he remarked that “there are three stages in any work attempted for God: Impossible, Difficult, Done.” I am very encouraged by that because there are many moments when we all seem to be stuck in the “impossible” stage of life. Cheer up, you never know but your impossibility may simply be “Stage 1” of a mighty miracle God will perform on your behalf.

What Harry Ironside Told Jack Wyrtzen

Many of you know about Word of Life, the great worldwide youth ministry started by Jack Wyrtzen in New York City seventy years ago. A teenager named Harry Bollback joined Jack as his pianist. Reminiscing about those early years in a message called “What Are You Doing With the Rest of Your Life?” Harry recalled a time when he and Jack Wyrtzen traveled to Chicago to visit Harry Ironside who at that time was the pastor of Moody Church. Harry said they went through a winding library filled with books in order to get to Dr. Ironside’s office. When they finally arrived, Dr. Ironside asked Jack how much money Word of Life needed every week. When Jack said they needed $3000 each week (this was back in the 1940s), Harry Ironside said, “That’s a lot of money. What would happen if you didn’t get the money?” “I guess they’d put me in jail,” Jack replied. “You don’t have to worry about that,” Dr. Ironside said.”God has never failed anyone yet, and you’re not important enough for him to make an exception now.”

God is not going to make an exception for us either!

I close by addressing the graduates of NBBI. We are so proud of you. As you go out from here, let me leave you with this thought:

God will give you whatever you need in order to do his will. And he will do it . . .

In his own time,
In his own way,
According to his own will.

When he says, “Give them something to eat,” he will give you whatever you need so that no one goes away hungry. Exactly how he will do that, no one can say in advance.

With that confidence you can receive your diploma and strike out into the world to serve the Lord. My advice to you is simple:

Fear not.
Dream big dreams.
Be bold.
Take courage.

God will give you whatever you need in order to do his will. In that confidence we send you out from here with great joy and great hope. Go now and do great things for God.

Lord, you have not brought us this far to leave us now. Having come this far by faith, we go forward by your faithfulness. As you have been with us through all the years, we ask you to lead us into the future. We gladly commit these graduates into your good hands. Watch over them. Lead them. Protect them. Bless them. Take what they have and multiply it greatly for your glory. Grant them every blessing as they serve you. We pray these things in the strong name of Jesus. Amen.

We had 28 students graduating from our one-year program, 13 from the three-year program, and 47 from the fourth year, ABM (B Th) program.

It is our prayer that these graduates will go out and impact the world for Christ.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Jack Caron, NBBI Faculty

This message by Jack Caron (NBBI Missions Director) was delivered during our morning devotion and prayer time at our Spring Conference on April 29, 2011.  It is entitled “The Prison of God’s Power” and the text is from Acts 12:1-19.

• Operation World – South Korea

• Operation World – North Korea

• Open Doors – God is Leading His People in North Korea

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Pritchard is president of Keep Believing Ministries. He has ministered extensively overseas and is a frequent conference speaker and guest on Christian radio and television talk shows. He is the author of 27 books, including Credo, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, An Anchor for the Soul and Why Did This Happen to Me?

He and his wife, Marlene, live in Tupelo, MS.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Mark your calendars for April 28 to May 1, 2011!

Guest Speaker: Dr. Ray Pritchard, President of Keep Believing Ministries

Guest Singers: DW & Jessie Crutchfield

Join us for this exciting time when we conclude our 2010-11 school year with our annual Spring Bible Conference.  Graduation will be on the afternoon of May 1st.

Conference Schedule is as follows:

10:30 am Thur – Sat – Main meeting w/ Ray Pritchard
6:00 pm Thur – Sat – Visual presentation – NBBI Mission Teams
7:30 pm Thur – Sat – Main meeting w/ Ray Pritchard
8:45 am Fri/Sat – Devotional/prayer time

There is no need to register for this conference.  Just come along and enjoy your time.

For a list of area motels, please visit: http://nbbi.ca/poi

Check back for further details in the coming weeks!

FEBRUARY 18-20 AND FEBRUARY 25-27

Don’t miss this exciting and challenging annual event for young people ages 13 to 18 (grades 7-12). Teens will be involved in various indoor and outdoor activities such as relay games, three-on-three basketball, table games, tubing and more.

Our guest speaker, Wayne Heikkinen was born in rural Maine and received Christ at a Daily Vacation Bible School at the age of 6. His family was involved in their local church and upon Wayne’s graduation from Wayside Christian Academy, he enrolled at New Brunswick Bible Institute. At NBBI, Wayne met his life partner, Sandy and felt his call to ministry. Wayne spent time as a youth pastor in Nova Scotia and, for 23 years after that, represented Word of Life Local Church Ministries. In 2002, God led Wayne to Rock Mills Fellowship Baptist Church as Pastor. For the past years, Wayne has had the wonderful privilege of sharing in the revitalization process of this local church. The emphasis of spiritual leadership, biblical discipleship and equipping the saints produced a commitment to reaching out to the community. God has blessed this ministry. Wayne and Sandy make their home across the road from Lake Eugenia in Ontario and love to spend time with their 3 grown children (2 are married), 4 grandchildren and their dog and they enjoy gardening, landscaping, walking, travelling and entertaining.

You will also be hearing various NBBI faculty members, as they share from God’s Word during our class times and our NBBI musical groups as they share in song throughout these weekends.

The total cost for the retreat is $45 for teens and $15 for leaders. Space is limited, so register early!

Register Online Here:

• Teen Registration
• Leader (Driver) Registration

If you prefer to download and print the brochure and applications visit these links: http://nbbi.ca/brochures/2011teenretreat.pdf or http://nbbi.ca/brochures/leaderletterweb.pdf

Location:

Adventure 2011 will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB and 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME, at 2335 Route 103 in Victoria Corner, NB.

Click here for directions.

Age Limit:

In order to attend this retreat, you must be 13 to 18 (grades 7-12) years of age.

Application Process:

The total cost for the retreat is $45. This fee must accompany the registration form. A clean photocopy of the form is acceptable. The form can also be found online by clicking here. Payment can be made by mailing in a cheque or money order or by calling 506-375-9000 with your Visa or Mastercard number. No application will be considered complete without the payment of fees.

Acceptance:

Acceptance will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis according to the postage date of your application or the date payment is made by phone. Space is limited, so register early! We will notify you of your acceptance by email if an address is provided. Otherwise, your acceptance letter will be sent by mail. If you register on-line and do not hear back from us within 5 days, please resend your registration form.

Youth Leaders (Drivers):

Registration is required for ALL. The fee for leaders (drivers) is only $15. No more than one leader (over 21 years of age) may come with each five teenagers. All leaders are responsible for their teens for the entire weekend and must accompany them to all activities.  Leaders can register online here.

Additional Note: Mark Forgarty with Muddy River Media will also be here to meet with all interested leaders in regard to multimedia ministries in your local church.

Registration:

Registration will be held Friday evening at 6:00 (Atlantic time). You will be expected to arrive after supper. The Friday evening meal will not be provided. No accommodations or meals will be provided after the noon meal on Sunday.

What to Bring:

Bring your Bible, a notebook and pen, bedding and any equipment you will need to play in the sports of your choice. . . basketball, volleyball, etc. Bring warm clothing.

US Citizens:

Those from the USA, 18 and under who will be travelling in a group vehicle will need to have their birth certificate (or other form of proof of citizenship such as a naturalization certificate). The original birth certificate or a copy may be used.

US customs are now requiring all adults (and those 16 and over, not travelling in a group vehicle) to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US.

Passports are required for all those who will be flying internationally.

Visit http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for more information.

**Our Bookstore will be open and times will be made available for you to visit.

Register Online Here:

• Teen Registration
• Leader (Driver) Registration

If you prefer to download and print the brochure and applications visit these links: http://nbbi.ca/brochures/2011teenretreat.pdf or http://nbbi.ca/brochures/leaderletterweb.pdf

Attention all girls ages 12 -17!  You are invited to a Garden Party at New Brunswick Bible Institute on January 22, 2011 from 10 AM to 2 PM.  Bring along your friends and join us for games, food, devos, and prizes as we journey back to the Garden of Eden and discover the girls that God created us to be!

This event is free of charge and includes lunch!

Use the form below to register and let us know you’re coming:

Pastor Bob Snell and his wife Joanne

Guest Speaker: Pastor Bob Snell

Pastor Snell assumed senior pastoral responsibilities at First Baptist Church in Waterloo, Ontario in January 2001. He provides oversight to a congregation committed to spiritually and eternally impacting peoples’ lives. He and his wife, Joanne, have 4 daughters.

Pastor Snell has enjoyed 27 years of ministry in Waterloo and Simcoe. He’s an Honours B.A. graduate from the University of Guelph and holds a M.Div. degree from London Baptist Bible College and Seminary. He has travelled worldwide in missionary ministry and frequently speaks at Bible Conferences, Youth Retreats and Bible Colleges and Seminaries.

Presently he serves as a member of the Word of Life Canada Board of Directors as well as Advisory Council for A.B.W.E. (Across Borders for World Evangelism). For relaxation he enjoys playing hockey, softball and golf.

Gregg Ernst and his four sons

OneBlood is an acappella quintet consisting of Gregg Ernst and four of his sons Joshua, John, Peter and Elijah. These men sing motets, hymns, spirituals, and gospel songs in four and five part harmony. In their music, they attempt to give Christians a renewed sense of God’s love, beauty, and grace, and non-Christians a view of God’s reality, holiness, and truth.

OneBlood formed in 2009 to be the touring subgroup of the Ernst Family. This family has been performing since 2001, appearing on national radio and television, releasing three CD’s, and touring the Maritimes, Ontario, and Northeastern USA.

Gregg farms on the First Peninsula near Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and is also a professional blacksmith. At his shop, the ironworks for the Bluenose and Bluenose II were forged. Greg was a participant in the World’s Strongest Man competitions. He still holds the official world record for the back lift of 5,340 pounds. More importantly than being an iron-man, Gregg is a Christian man who seeks to live for and serve His Lord Jesus Christ.

Website: http://oneblood.ca

This conference will be held on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute which is located 16 kilometers north of Woodstock, NB and 48 kilometers from Houlton, ME, at 2335 Route 103 in Victoria Corner, NB.

Click here for directions using Google Maps.

Extreme Sportsmen will be highlighted through testimony, video, and demonstration.

5:30 PM -  Registration

7:00 PM -  Welcome rally

8:00 PM – Evening rally

Saturday, January 30th

7:00 AM  – Breakfast

7:45 AM – 1st rally

9:30 AM – Refreshments

10:30 AM – 2nd Rally

12:00 PM – Noon meal

1:30 PM – Concert/promo/testimonies

2:30 PM – 3rd rally

On Campus – No charge in dormitory (4 individuals to a room).  Space is limited so register early!

Off Campus – For your convenience we have a list of area motels. (Registration for the conference is still necessary.)

To attend this Rally, you must be 18 years of age or older.

Please note: Sorry, we cannot have families and other guests on campus during this event. Please register early!

US customs are now requiring all adults to have a passport, or a passport card, or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License when returning to the US.  See the U.S. State Department’s website for details.

Individuals…………….$40.00

This amount must be mailed in with your registration form.  If you wish to pay by Visa or MasterCard, please call our business office between 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Atlantic) Monday through Friday.  No application will be considered complete without the payment of fees.

Mail cheques payable to:

New Brunswick Bible Institute
2335 Route 103
Victoria Corner, NB E7P 1C7
Canada
(506) 375-9000

You may download and print the brochure and registration form here or use the form below to register online.