Our Lord Jesus Christ is certainly a master teacher. He knows just how to create teachable moments in the lives of those with whom He interacts. In John 4, we catch a glimpse of our Saviour as He, wearied and thirsty from the journey towards Galilee, sits upon an ancient well and asks a Samaritan woman for a drink of water. In His own moment of thirst, He uses the concept of how water satisfies one’s physical thirst to communicate the two most important spiritual truths that one needs to know. First, there is a “water” that will immediately and eternally satisfy the thirst of one’s soul. Second, Jesus is the only source of that “water.” Jesus alone satisfies because it is He alone who offers salvation to the believing sinner. The account of the Samaritan woman is powerful. As we read the text we observe Christ reaching across the barriers of race, religion, lifestyle and gender as He offers this broken woman “water springing up into everlasting life.”

There are three kinds of spiritual thirst that man can experience. There is the thirst of the empty soul whereby the unsaved may be thirsting for something satisfying, not realizing that only Christ can quench the longing of his soul. This person may be indifferent and even ignorant of God, yet he is thirsty. We need to draw alongside this person, as Jesus did with the Samaritan woman, and point him to the water of life.

There is the thirst of the dry soul whereby a believer may be experiencing a season of spiritual dryness in his life. This dryness may be due to drinking to much from the polluted, stale cisterns of the world (Jeremiah 2:13) or from experiencing distressing times because of fatigue, stress or poor health. Sometimes a believer, because of troubling circumstances, can have difficulty sensing God’s nearness. We need to draw alongside this person, and reassure him of the life giving water that Christ offers. (Psalm 143:6-8)

There is also the thirst of the satisfied soul whereby one has tasted the goodness of the Lord and craves more of it. God has not designed him so that one experience with Christ satiates all future desire. In fact, it’s just the opposite. God has placed His Holy Spirit within this believer, as a spring of living water (John 7:37-39). A spring satisfies thirst – not by removing the need he has for water, but by being there to give him water whenever he gets thirsty, again and again.

The late A.W. Tozer once penned these helpful words: “O God, I have tasted thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need for further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, I want thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made thirsty still.”

Post by: Keith McMahon, NBBI Faculty

This article appears in the May 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Child Evangelism Fellowship will hold CYIA Training on NBBI campus from Sunday, July 1 to Friday, July 6, 2012.

For the past nine years I have had the blessing of working with Child Evangelism Fellowship in Northern Maine. God has given us a tremendous responsibility to reach the lost and it is our passion in CEF to reach children with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each year hundreds of boys and girls are presented with the message of salvation through various CEF sponsored ministries.

As a child, I was exposed to many CEF ministries. As I reached my teen and young adult years, I had the privilege to serve in various ministries such as Awana, Word of Life Clubs and others. One thing that I found invaluable was the training that I had received during my early teen years. For two summers, I attended a training camp called “Christian Youth In Action.” I was challenged to have a heart for the lost, to develop my relationship with the Lord, and to have confidence when sharing my faith.

One of our greatest goals is not only to share the gospel, but to equip others with the training and tools to do the same. Christ Himself said that He came for the lost and the need is as great today as it was then. CEF of Canada and CEF of Maine have partnered to bring Christian Youth In Action training to New Brunswick. NBBI has graciously agreed to host the CYIA training on their campus. CYIA is an intense training program that provides youth with the How-to’s of giving a clear and thorough presentation of the gospel while also providing opportunities to gain hands on experience.

The program is designed for ages 15 and up and will be held from Sunday, July 1 to Friday, July 6, 2012. If you would like to know more about CYIA or request brochures and applications, feel free to contact Alex Bourgoin at: (207) 425-2471, (207) 227-5411 or visit our link at: http://cefofmaine.org.

Post by Alex Bourgoin, NBBI grad of 2001

This article appears in the May 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

The two words “nothing undone” from Joshua 11:15 probably best describe the life and ministry of Joshua, the man God chose to lead His people into the promised land. These words are described in Joshua 11:15 and 23. That is, God accomplished through Joshua all that He originally intended and declared to do through Moses. In Exodus 33, God told Moses that He would drive out all the Canaanites, but not through Moses or with the then present generation. Joshua would be the one God would use to fulfil His Word and His will. Joshua 11:23 is an amazing testimony to God’s faithfulness. “So Joshua took the whole land…and the land rested from war.”

The question for us to ask is, “What was Joshua’s success secret?” Joshua stated before all Israel, “…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

1. Joshua had a strong personal commitment. He boldly declared, “…as for me….” A leader people will follow must be willing to state and prove his personal determination and dedication to the task to which God has called him, and then set the example and follow through to the end.

2. Joshua determined that his family would also follow God. The words “my house” indicates that he felt responsible for his family and that, by God’s grace, they would serve God as well.

3. Joshua knew the true meaning of “serve”. He had served Moses well as spy and second in command and now he served God with the full weight of all the responsibility of the nation on his shoulders.

The testimony of God at the end of Joshua’s life is found in Joshua 24:31. “And Israel served God all the days of Joshua and all the days of the elders that overlived (outlived) Joshua….” What a fitting epitaph for a servant of God who left “nothing undone!”

Post by: Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice-President

This article appears in the May 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

How would you like hundreds of teens to converge upon your home, scream all weekend, stay up half the night, and then leave exhausted when it’s all over. Well that is what happened at NBBI. Our students opened up their home (the dorms) and welcome hundreds of teens for two action packed exciting weekends. This year’s “Encounter 2012” was one of our best yet. Our two speakers Mr. Jon Ward and Pastor Trent Boyd powerfully presented God’s Word and the response was incredible. Over 15 teenagers put their faith in Christ and dozens more rededicated their lives to the Lord. That is why our students tirelessly work to put these weekends together, that is why faithful youth leaders bring their teenagers to us, and that is what the ministry of NBBI is all about. The games were amazing as usual, the food was great, the music was awesome, but the fact that several entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ makes it all worthwhile.

Here’s what others were saying about “Encounter 2012”:

“I would attend another retreat in a heartbeat! It was amazing!”

“I loved the sessions (Bible). They taught me a lot about God, and things that I need to know about being a Christian that I never knew.”

“It was absolutely amazing, and made a huge change and impact on my life!…the best weekend of my life.”

“The games and activities were awesome.”

“The students (NBBI students) are fantastic. Please let them know that they are so instrumental to making a positive impact on teens.”

But do not take their word for it, mark February 2013 on your calendar and plan on joining us. A big thank you for the tremendous work of our students and to all the youth leaders who brought their young people to our campus.

Post by Matthew Little, NBBI President

This article appears in the May 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Grant (’98) and Elizabeth (Denuke ’98) Fawcett write, “We work with Northern Canada Evangelical Mission, our role… managers of Arrowhead Native Bible Centre in Cumberland Bay, NB. NCEM’s mandate is to fulfil the Great Commission of Jesus Christ among and in partnership with the aboriginal peoples of Canada. For those interested in keeping up to date with NCEM at Arrowhead visit their website at: justmindthegap.com/

Post by Robert Booker, Alumni Committee

Winona (Peirce) Berry, graduate of 1962, went home to be with the Lord on March 2, 2012. View Obituary

Rosanna Tripp, graduate of 1995, went home to be with the Lord on March 6, 2012 after her three year battle with cancer. View Obituary

Vondel Allen, graduate of 1967, went home to be with the Lord on March 20, 2012 after a lengthy illness. Pray for his wife Paula, also a grad of ’67 and their family. View Obituary

Please be in prayer for the families of these graduates.

May 7, 14, 21, 28 – Danforth Baptist Church, Danforth, ME – Extension Classes
May 9, 16, 23, 30 – Cornerstone Baptist Church, Burtt’s Corner, NB – Extension Classes
May 11 – New Brunswick Bible Institute, Victoria Corner, NB – Sandy Cove Bible Camp Banquet

DAVID DOHERTY

May 11-12 – Grace Baptist Church of Oakland, Oakland, ME – Extension Classes

JOHN HOAG

May 7, 14, 21, 28 – Danforth Baptist Church, Danforth, ME – Extension Classes
May 9, 16, 23, 30 – Cornerstone Baptist Church, Burtt’s Corner, NB – Extension Classes
May 11-12 – Grace Baptist Church of Oakland, Oakland, ME – Extension Classes
May 13 – Lincoln Center Baptist Church, Lincoln, ME – Sunday Morning Service

KEITH MCMAHON

May 25-26 – New Hampshire State Prison, Concord, NH – Bible Study Meetings

Our staff will also be involved with the NBBI Spring SEM and Music Tours at the following locations:

NBBI Spring Tour – May 1-13, 2012

Three NBBI ministry groups will be travelling this May representing our school and the Lord Jesus Christ. If you would like to have one of these groups in your church, please contact us. We are now drawing up our itineraries.

Steadfast will be touring Maine, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia with Jack Caron

Steadfast with Jack Caron

May 1 – Bradford Baptist Church, Bradford, ME – 6:30 PM
May 2 – County Road Baptist Church, New Limerick, ME – 7:00 PM
May 3 – Mountain View Bible Church, Eagle Lake, ME – 7:00 PM
May 4 – Sunrise Baptist Church, Tatamagouche NS
May 6 – Westside Bible Chapel, Sydney, NS – AM Service
May 6 – Faith Baptist Church, Sydney, NS – PM Service
May 8 – Maranatha Bible Church, New Glasgow, NS
May 9 – The People’s Church, Truro, NS – 7:00 PM
May 10 – Argyle-Pubnico Baptist Church, Argyle, NS
May 11 – Habitation Baptist Church, Port Royal, NS
May 12 – Lake Echo Fellowship Baptist Church, Mineville, NS – Community Concert
May 13 – Lake Echo Fellowship Baptist Church, Mineville, NS – AM Service

Surrendered will be touring Ontario and Quebec with Matt Little

Surrendered with Matt Little

May 2 – Chomedey Baptist Church, Chomeday, QC
May 6 – Rock Mills Fellowship Baptist Church, Flesherton, ON – Sunday Morning/Sunday School
May 7 – Central Baptist Church, Brantford ON – 7:00 PM – Alumni Meeting
May 9 – Central Baptist Church, Brantford ON – 6:30 PM – Youth Meeting
May 10 – New Life Camp, Priceville ON – Work Day
May 10 – Markdale Baptist Church, Markdale ON – Youth Rally
May 11 – Word of LIfe Bible Institute, Owen Sound, ON – Chapel
May 11 – Clifford Community Church, Clifford ON – 7:00 PM Youth Meeting
May 13 – Lighthouse Fellowship Baptist Church, Kincardin ON – AM Service
May 13 – Temple Baptist Church, Cambridge ON – PM Service

SEM will be touring Maine, New Hampshire and New York with Keith McMahon

Special Events Ministries with Keith McMahon

May 2 – Merrimack Valley Baptist Church, Merrimack, NH – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 3 – Colonial Hills Baptist Church, Milford, NH – 7:00 PM – Family Service
May 4 – Bible Believing Baptist Church, Gray, ME – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 6 – South Waterboro Bible Chapel, South Waterboro, ME – 9:15 AM SS, 10:30 AM Worship
May 6 – East Waterboro Free Baptist Church, East Waterboro, ME – 6:00 PM – Family Service
May 7 – First Baptist Church of Lebanon Springs, Lebanon Springs, NY – 7:00 PM – Family Service
May 8 – Calvary Baptist Church, Claremont, NH – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 9 – Community Bible Church, Berlin, NH – 6:00 PM – Family Service
May 10 – Bean’s Corner Baptist Church, Jay ME – 6:00 PM – Youth Service
May 11 – Berean Baptist Church, Brunswick ME – 7:00 PM – Youth Service
May 12 – Faith Community Bible Church, Loudon, NH – 6:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 13 – Faith Community Bible Church, Loudon, NH – 8:00 AM/11:00 AM – Worship Services

http://nbbi.ca/obb/2012-05obbweb.pdf

Matthew Little - NBBI Faculty, Dean of Men

Sigmund Freud was an Austrian neurologist who founded the discipline of psychoanalysis. His many other Freudian theories have garnished much attention and spurred on much debate. His insights have been scrutinized, analyzed and often times rejected. What about the man? Freud died at the age of eighty-three a lonely, bitter, disillusioned soul. He wrote in 1918, “I have found little that is good about human beings on the whole. In my experience most of them are trash…” The thoughts that Freud put to pen have been unfortunately tucked away and harboured by many.

Hebrews 12:15 says, “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.”

Bitterness is like the weed that, when tending the garden, won’t be uprooted without a fight. Often offenders have no idea the deep hurt they have caused and so wounded believers suffer the pain of the hurt alone. Over time, they rehearse the trauma like a movie playing again and again in their minds and soon the bitter spirit that has been building is becoming much easier to justify. We become comfortable with our hurt and numb to its devastating affects.

If we allow “bitterness” to spring up in our lives then we are looking for “trouble”. It will spell trouble for us and trouble for others; it will trouble our families, it will trouble our marriages, it will trouble our churches, it will trouble our health, it will trouble our joy, it will trouble our friendships, it will trouble our ministries, and it will trouble our relationships with Jesus Christ. The devastating reaches of a bitter heart are often grossly underestimated. One angry saint that is harbouring the pain and anger of unresolved problems can do more damage to himself and others then he will ever really know. What did the apostle Paul do when the opportunity to harbour bitterness presented itself? He said, “Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works… At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge”, II Timothy 4:14,16. There is no hurt so deep in your life right now nor pain that you feel that is so great that God’s grace cannot reach down and bring healing and cause you to reach out and extend forgiveness.

Post by: Matthew Little

This post appears in the April 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

In his 1998 book, “The New Tolerance,” Josh McDowell gives the definitions of “traditional tolerance” and “the new tolerance.” He defines the new tolerance by quoting Fernando Savater who wrote, “Tolerance… is that all opinions are equal… and all should be respected or praised.” I agree that this cancer of unbelief was permeating society and is even more so now, fourteen years later.

But what is real tolerance and biblical tolerance, and how does it fit Christianity today. Is there room for it in our doctrinal and practical standards? The Oxford Dictionary defines tolerance as “the ability to accept things one dislikes or disagrees with.”

The Christian tolerance that I think needs re-defining is the tolerance needed between brothers and sisters in Christ that allows us to disagree on matters that are not critical to our faith without dividing us in regard to fellowship. For example, if I think the new vinyl siding on the parsonage should be white and another thinks it should be gray – does it matter? Should I be disgruntled or upset? Never! Yet, sometimes we let insignificant things divide us. Paul says in I Corinthians 13:5-7, “Charity… seeketh not her own,… beareth all things,… endureth all things.” This simply means that true godly love toward others is not selfish, always finds a way to forgive, and is strong and durable.

Paul strengthens his proposition about how we are to get along in our relationships in Philippians 2:3, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Very likely, if this command was practiced, our tolerance for each other as Christians, in Christian matters, would be high. Of course, Paul goes on to show us the perfect example of humility and grace – Christ Jesus. The Creator of the universe took on Himself the form of a servant and then gave His life and shed His blood because He loved us so much. How can we do any less than love one another and exhibit biblical tolerance, “real tolerance.”

Post by: Robert Booker

This post appears in the April 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

MFG 2012 Keynote speaker Gary Stairs

“The long haul is still in front of us and God’s intent is that we finish well!”  – Gary Stairs, 2012 Men for God Conference.

This was the challenge that was given to the nearly three hundred and fifty men who gathered at the recent Men for God Conference, which was held on January 27-28, 2012 here on the campus of New Brunswick Bible Institute.

The conference this year was built upon the theme of “Long-haul Men” and featured testimonies from a few of those who have spent time in the transportation industry. The conference also included Bible sessions from our keynote speaker, Gary Stairs from Word of Life Canada. It was during these times that the men were exhorted to be in the Christian life for the long haul. Together, we shared a lot of laughs and even a few tears as the Lord really moved in hearts.

Throughout the weekend the High Meadow Quartet from Perham, Maine, along with our own NBBI student praise team, led the way with inspirational music. One guest remarked, “There is nothing like hearing hundreds of men singing in unison to God.”

Through the use of internet technology, we were also able to webcast the main sessions for those who could not join us on campus. One pastor wrote:

“Thank you for streaming this event! It was much appreciated.”

Another man shared:

“Thanks again for the services of the men’s conference on the computer. It is good for those of us who are limited by age in our travel.”

At the close of our last session an invitation was given and many men came forward to publicly declare that they wanted to be “long-haul men” who are willing to live for Christ. It is our prayer that these same bold men will go back and reach others in their families, churches and communities.

If you attended the Men for God Conference, we would love to hear from you. You can fill out an online survey by visiting:

http://nbbi.ca/mfg-survey

See you next year, Lord willing!

Post by: Jack Caron, NBBI Faculty

This post appears in the April 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Leanne (Baker ’83) Carter recently sent this letter from Austria. I thought our readers might enjoy it. Please continue to pray for Leanne and her sons, David and Jonathan.

“Thank you for your many prayers for us. We are blessed by them. It was good for us to ski together on the anniversary of Warren’s accident, to celebrate his life. The ‘mountain’ took excellent care of us. We were given lift tickets and lunch on the mountain by the company that runs the lifts. The fine people at our ski school, that the boys attended for the last 6 years, welcomed us with open arms. Their chins almost hit the floor when we walked through the door to rent skis (which they wouldn’t let us pay for). Last year, when I said good bye, I told them we would not be coming back. Hmmm, I am glad God changed my mind. At lunch, David’s ski teacher from last year spotted us and was very pleased to see us and find out how we were doing. We skied to the site of Warren’s accident and I was yet again amazed at how flat the slope was where the accident occurred. It was a very emotional moment for me.

Thank you to those who sent notes to share with my boys on the anniversary of Warren’s death, Feb. 14th. This was a very important day for me as a mother. I wanted my boys to receive their father’s teaching and catch a glimpse of heaven.

In December, I had to write a report on my plans and goals for the next two years (special thanks to my editor, Nikki, who helped me turn my diagrams, pictures, schedule and ideas into a concise report). One point that was very clear for me is that discipleship and mentoring (I like to call it ‘Adventuring’) of women in leadership and women who are wives of leaders should be a main focus. Just two weeks ago a new Bible study group of young women started meeting in my home. Three of them I have known since they were children, and now they are married and have children of their own! Yes, I have been around awhile. It is a privilege to have this precious time with them.

We are blessed to have you in our lives!

Love,

Leanne, Jonathan and David.”

Related Posts:

• In Memory of Warren Carter
• Hope for Europe - In Memoriam:  Warren Carter
• A Prodigal Story – YouTube video recorded one year before Warren’s tragic death.

NBBI Students: Emily Luddeke, Tim Williamson, Devin Groff, Jessica Smith, Amanda Aulenback

April 30-May 9, 2012

Following our spring graduation, a group of NBBI students is planning on joining up with a church from Ontario to go on a missions trip to the country of Nicaragua. Together, the team will be involved in evangelism and church ministry as they come along side national believers to assist them in their ministries.

Please be in prayer as the plans and details are worked out and monies are raised to cover the costs of the trip.

Post by: Jack Caron, NBBI Missions Director

This post appears in the April 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.

Doris (Leaman) Dunfield, graduate of 1951, was promoted to glory on January 26, 2012. (View obituary)

June 17-22
June 24-29 (Camp NBBI will run this second week.)

This is a family-friendly event so bring along the whole clan. NBBI provides housing, meals and supplies at no cost to our volunteers. We do ask you to bring your own bedding and toiletry items if you are staying on campus.

Camp NBBI will be held this year during our second week (June 24 – 29). This is a day camp (hosted right on our campus) for children ages 5-12. There will be games, sports and craft activities along with singing and Bible lessons.

Our 2012 goal for Vacation with a Vision is to raise $25,000. There are some renovations to a building which need to be done and a couple of roofing projects. Campus beautification, painting, grounds upkeep and maintenance of our property will also be on the agenda.

You can register for this event by filling out the online form below. Please provide a separate entry for each participant.

You can also view and print the pdf version below:

April 1 - West Sidney Baptist Church, West Sidney ME - Sunday Morning Service
April 2, 9, 16, 23 - Springfield Community Church, Springfield ME - Extension Classes
April 4, 11, 18, 25 - East Hodgdon Bible Church, East Hodgdon ME - Extension Classes
April 5, 12 - Dumfries Community Bible Study, Dumfries NB
April 8 - Onward Gospel Church,Verdun, Quebec - Easter Service

ROBERT BOOKER

April 1 – Open Bible Campus Church, Victoria Corner NB – Sunday Morning Service

JACK CARON

April 1 – Hermon Baptist Church, Hermon ME – Morning Service with Surrendered
April 8 – Faith Baptist Chapel – Blaine ME – AM Easter Service, PM

DAVID DOHERTY

April 4, 11, 18, 25 – East Hodgdon Bible Church, East Hodgdon ME – Extension Classes

MATTHEW LITTLE

April 2, 9, 16, 23 – Springfield Community Church, Springfield ME – Extension Classes
April 21-22 – White Head Baptist Church, White Head Island NB – Saturday night and Sunday Services

Below is the pdf version of the April 2012 Open Bible Bulletin. You can view this in higher resolution by clicking the expand arrow in the upper right corner of the viewer window:

“Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night?” Job 35:10b

It was on a fateful night in 1910 in the small town of Harrodsburg, Kentucky that a man found himself unable to sleep. He decided to get up from bed and walked over to the window to take in the darkened landscape. Expecting perhaps a tranquil moonlit scene, his eyes instead were met with horror as he saw flames racing across the field toward the neighbour’s house. The alarm was raised and Mr. and Mrs. Vetch, owners of the home, fled just as the fire consumed their dwelling. Sadly, their daughter Sarah and her three young sons were not able to escape and died in the blaze.

Earlier that evening, a pastor named Luther Bridges had just finished up a series of special revival meetings elsewhere in Kentucky. At age 26, Pastor Bridges had already gained a favourable reputation as a gifted evangelist and preacher. He had gone to bed that night in anticipation of reuniting with his family, whom he had left in the care of his in-laws two weeks before. How he wanted to share with his beloved Sarah all the wonderful things God had done during the special meetings. It was later that night Mr. Bridges was awoken and given the news that there had been a house-fire and his wife and boys had all perished.
In coping with the loss of his family, Bridges went on to pen the words and music to the now famous hymn, “He Keeps Me Singing.”

There’s within my heart a melody—Jesus whispers sweet and low, “Fear not, I am with thee—peace, be still,” in all of life’s ebb and flow.

All my life was wrecked by sin and strife. Discord filled my heart with pain; Jesus swept across the broken strings, stirred the slumb’ring chords again.

Feasting on the riches of His grace, resting ’neath His shelt’ring wing, always looking on His smiling face—That is why I shout and sing.

Tho sometimes He leads thru waters deep, trials fall across the way, tho sometimes the path seem rough and steep, see His feet-prints all the way.

Soon He’s coming back to welcome me far beyond the starry sky; I shall wing my flight to worlds unknown; I shall reign with Him on high.

Chorus: Jesus, Jesus, Jesus—Sweetest name I know, fills my ev’ry longing, keeps me singing as I go.

Luther Bridges (1884 -1948)

In 1914 Luther Bridges remarried and served for the next eighteen years as an itinerant evangelist whose travels took him across the southern United States and countries as far away as Belgium, Czechoslovakia and Russia. After 1932 he served as a pastor in churches in North Carolina and Georgia until his death in 1948.

Although none of us would welcome the tragic events that shaped the young life of Luther Bridges, we can rest assured that our same God still gives songs in the night.

May Jesus keep you singing!

Post by: Jack Caron
NBBI Faculty, Web Administrator

Follow me on Twitter @jackcaron

The Open Bible Bulletin has a new updated look!

Thank you for your patience over the last couple of months. We have been working toward a full-colour bulletin and it has taken longer to get things set up than we anticipated. We trust that those who were having difficulty reading the small print on grey background will be able to see the new, larger print better, especially since it is not black on grey. With this new, full-colour bulletin, we hope to attract more attention so a larger number of our readers will feel like picking up a copy and reading the excellent articles inside.

We will continue to keep you up-to-date on what is happening on our campus, and in the lives of our students and staff. Good, Bible-related articles will be included each month. And, with the help of our alumni, we hope to include more news and updates from our past graduates. If you are an alumnus and would like to send us an update on what you are doing or share an exciting event that has taken place in your ministry, drop us a line. You can contact us by email or by post by mailing information to:

Open Bible Bulletin
2335 Route 103
Victoria Corner NB  E7P 1C7
Canada

Send photos of you and your ministry as well! Our space is limited so  be brief. Don’t worry too much about grammar and sentence structure. We will edit it for you. Also, keep in mind, we do work a couple of months ahead of time.

We appreciate you, our readers. We want this bulletin to be read by as many people as possible because we believe you are part of our lifeline. You are the ones who pray for us, give to us and encourage us in so many ways. Thank you!

Below you will find the latest copy in pdf format. You can view it below in the reading pane here on this page or click the arrow (expand) button in the upper right corner of the reading pane to call it up in a full screen display.

The file is 5.5 MB so be patient as it downloads.

Post by: Larry Rushton
Open Bible Bulletin Editor

http://nbbi.ca/obb/2012-03obbweb.pdf

Natalie Paterson - NBBI Class of 2012

Looking back over the years, I could say that I had the classic “Christian testimony.” I was born into a Christian home, saved when I was young, dedicated my life to God when I was 12, baptised the same year, and I am now at NBBI.

God has especially used NBBI to bring major changes in my life. When I came here as a freshman almost three years ago, I thought that I was coming for an education in Scripture, not practical life lessons. Looking back, I would have to say that, although classes have been amazing and I have learned a lot from them, the most valuable lessons have come through the practical application of Scripture in my life.

One of the main lessons that I have learned is that I cannot do it in my own strength. Although it sometimes seems like I cannot go on, God has always been there to support and encourage me. Through Scripture, classes, friends, prayer and many other ways, God has always shown Himself faithful. Through my years at NBBI I have learned that God’s strength is sufficient for me and when I am weak, He is strong.

Post by: Natalie Paterson
Senior Class Secretary

This is a combination of information from Larry (’70) and Melissa (’69), and Jason (ABM ’01) and Ita Strout. We thought you may be interested in hearing what the Lord is doing in Santa Rosa, Argentina.

“We rejoice in what the Lord has done in the past few months here. The signing for the church property will be this Friday (October 18).

On Sunday, October 9th, we celebrated the 3rd anniversary of the church. It was great to remember how God has blessed us. It has not been easy and many times it has been a great struggle to get this church started. From the start we have felt opposition to this church plant, but we see and know that God is building His church here. One family is missing from the picture, they were not able to attend that day because of a car accident.

Last week we had the privilege of meeting Erica and Roberto who live on the same block as the church. During our visit, Roberto accepted the Lord as his Saviour. Erica is a Christian. Pray that the Lord will bless this young couple and that they will start coming to our church meetings.”

Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

Whenever we think of obedience and disobedience we automatically think of the nation of Israel and their vacillating relationship to God. I have been reading Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy this month and noted three basic observations about Israel and our God – the disobedience of Israel, the consequences of disobedience and the continued faithfulness of God despite disobedience.

The disobedience of Israel is easy to document, from the murmuring about food and water to the molding of a golden calf idol and much more. It is not my intention to enumerate all of our sins, or theirs, but we need to realize the seriousness of the sin of disobedience. If the God of the universe commands or expects something of me then I need to respond and do it. I think the key to God’s thinking on obedience is found in 1 Samuel 15:22 where King Saul did not fully obey God in destroying the Amalekites. Samuel confronted Saul and made this statement, “To obey is better than sacrifice.” Saul’s excuse for disobedience becomes a lesson for us.

The consequences of disobedience are obvious in the Old Testament as well. For instance, none of the original first generation of Israelites who left Egypt were allowed to enter the promised land except Caleb and Joshua. Even Moses was prohibited from entering because he hit the rock twice instead of simply speaking to it to give his people water, as God had instructed. What a sad moment personally for Moses when God brought him to Mount Pisgah and allowed him to see the new land, understanding that he would never enter it. Solomon put it well in Proverbs 9:10 when he said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” We must have reverence for our God whereby we understand the consequences of disobedience.

There are a number of instances where God proves His faithfulness to Israel. In Deuteronomy 3, the Lord reminds them that He is on their side and He will fight for them. In chapter 2, He recounts the victories and the boundaries of Israel. In chapter 7, they are reminded of His love and blessing.

Obedience to our Lord, through His Word, is the key to living this life with His blessing and in the victory He desires and provides for His children.

Post by: Dr. Robert Booker
NBBI Vice President

Three NBBI ministry groups will be travelling this May representing our school and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Steadfast will be touring Maine, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia with Jack Caron

Steadfast with Jack Caron

May 1 – Bradford Baptist Church, Bradford, ME – 6:30 PM
May 2 – County Road Baptist Church, New Limerick, ME – 7:00 PM
May 3 – Mountain View Bible Church, Eagle Lake, ME – 7:00 PM
May 4 – Sunrise Baptist Church, Tatamagouche NS
May 6 – Westside Bible Chapel, Sydney, NS – AM Service
May 6 – Faith Baptist Church, Sydney, NS – PM Service
May 8 – Maranatha Bible Church, New Glasgow, NS
May 9 – The People’s Church, Truro, NS – 7:00 PM
May 10 – Argyle-Pubnico Baptist Church, Argyle, NS
May 11 – Habitation Baptist Church, Port Royal, NS
May 12 – Lake Echo Fellowship Baptist Church, Mineville, NS – Community Concert
May 13 – Lake Echo Fellowship Baptist Church, Mineville, NS – AM Service

Surrendered will be touring Ontario and Quebec with Matt Little

Surrendered with Matt Little

May 2 – Chomedey Baptist Church, Chomeday, QC
May 6 – Rock Mills Fellowship Baptist Church, Flesherton, ON – Sunday Morning/Sunday School
May 7 – Central Baptist Church, Brantford ON – 7:00 PM – Alumni Meeting
May 9 – Central Baptist Church, Brantford ON – 6:30 PM – Youth Meeting
May 10 – New Life Camp, Priceville ON – Work Day
May 10 – Markdale Baptist Church, Markdale ON – Youth Rally
May 11 – Word of LIfe Bible Institute, Owen Sound, ON – Chapel
May 11 – Clifford Community Church, Clifford ON – 7:00 PM Youth Meeting
May 13 – Lighthouse Fellowship Baptist Church, Kincardin ON – AM Service
May 13 – Temple Baptist Church, Cambridge ON – PM Service

SEM will be touring Maine, New Hampshire and New York with Keith McMahon

Special Events Ministries with Keith McMahon

May 2 – Merrimack Valley Baptist Church, Merrimack, NH – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 3 – Colonial Hills Baptist Church, Milford, NH – 7:00 PM – Family Service
May 4 – Bible Believing Baptist Church, Gray, ME – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 6 – South Waterboro Bible Chapel, South Waterboro, ME – 9:15 AM SS, 10:30 AM Worship
May 6 – East Waterboro Free Baptist Church, East Waterboro, ME – 6:00 PM – Family Service
May 7 – First Baptist Church of Lebanon Springs, Lebanon Springs, NY – 7:00 PM – Family Service
May 8 – Calvary Baptist Church, Claremont, NH – 7:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 9 – Community Bible Church, Berlin, NH – 6:00 PM – Family Service
May 10 – Bean’s Corner Baptist Church, Jay ME – 6:00 PM – Youth Service
May 11 – Berean Baptist Church, Brunswick ME – 7:00 PM – Youth Service
May 12 – Faith Community Bible Church, Loudon, NH – 6:00 PM – Youth Meeting
May 13 – Faith Community Bible Church, Loudon, NH – 8:00 AM/11:00 AM – Worship Services

Guest Speaker - Dr. Ron Blue

Guest Soloist - Timothy Mark

Mark you calendars for April 26-29, 2012 for our upcoming Spring Conference and Graduation.

Watch our conference sessions live here: http://nbbi.ca/live

Coming up:

Saturday, April 28 at 7:30 PM Atlantic – Session 6 with Dr. Ron Blue
Sunday, April 29 at 10:00 AM Atlantic – Session 7 with Dr. Ron Blue
Sunday, April 29 at 2:00 PM Atlantic – Graduation Service

Dr. Ron Blue of Dallas Theological Seminary will be our main speaker with Timothy Mark of Timothy Mark Ministries providing our special music.

This conference is free to attend (including meals and limited lodging).

Below is the pdf copy of our conference brochure. You can view or print it from Google Docs by clicking the expand icon in the upper right corner of the window.

by Robert Booker, Alumni Committee

March 5, 12, 19, 26 - Chapel of the Living Water - Tracy, NB - Extension Classes
March 7, 14, 21, 28 - The People’s Church - Somerville, NB - Prayer Meeting

JACK CARON

March 11 – Blaine Baptist Chapel – Blaine, Maine – AM, PM Service
March 18 – Mars Hill United Baptist Church – AM Service
March 25 - Cumberland Bay Baptist Church - Cumberland Bay, NB - Sunday Morning Service

DAVID DOHERTY

March 25 - Open Bible Campus Church - Victoria Corner, NB - Worship Service

JOHN HOAG

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Dumfries Community Bible Study - Dumfries, NB
March 5, 12, 19, 26 - Chapel of Living Water - Tracy, NB - Extension Classes
March 31 - West Sidney Baptist Church - Sidney, ME - Extension Classes

MATTHEW LITTLE

March 31 - West Sidney Baptist Church - West Sidney, ME - Extension Classes

KEITH MCMAHON

March 12-16 - HEB Camp - Leaky, TX – Student Mission Trip

What is it about certain people that, when they are gone from us, we ask ourselves this question, “What makes their memory so persistent and their loss so sharply felt?” The Bible says, “the memory of the just is blessed”, Proverbs 10:7. This was vividly brought to my attention when one of our graduates, who is a veteran missionary, sat across from me in my office and said “I have been walking around the campus soaking up some good memories. The men I studied under were anointed.” The unshakeable commitment to the Word of God of his teachers had become a foundation plank in his own ministry over these years as he serves on another continent. The joy of any teacher is when his students travel further, dig deeper, rise higher and reach more people with the truth of God’s Word then ever the teacher did. John, the apostle, said “I have no greater joy than to hear my children walk in truth.”, 3 John 4.

Of all the joys a Bible School teacher could have, there would be nothing that thrills the heart more than knowing that the Word of God is being studied, lived and taught by those into whom he poured it. He then knows that they “… received it not as the word of men but as the word of God which effectually worketh also in you that believe”, 2 Thessalonians 2:13. The King James translators wanted their lives to be involved in translating the Word of God because they knew it would be valuable for time and eternity. They valued it as an “inestimable treasure” that would grow of itself. “….the preaching of God’s sacred Word among us; which is that inestimable treasure,

John Hoag, NBBI Chancellor

which excelleth all the riches of the earth because the fruit thereof extendeth itself…”.

I recently attended a gospel concert with my wife and granddaughter and how my heart rejoiced as these gifted young men sang harmoniously, joyfully and worshipfully. Biblical principles were shared and, at one point, the stage cleared and the gospel was presented logically, clearly, and powerfully from an open Bible. It was evident to me from those young men that they treasured the Word of God. It was evident to me from that former student that he remembered NBBI because of the “inestimable treasure” it set before him and I could observe the “fruit thereof extending itself” in his ministry. Whatever we deposit to students as teachers in this age, may we leave them with the “Word of God” and it will “extend itself through a fertile life.”

Post by: John Hoag, NBBI Chancellor

This article appears in the February 2012 Open Bible Bulletin.  Click here for the pdf version.

Messages and challenges usually come from experience and from God’s working in the heart of the writer; so it is with this challenge. I’ve been studying the book of Colossians and at the end of chapter one, Paul speaks to the church people there about the ministry to which God has called him and, I believe, it serves as a challenge to each of us today.

He begins this section of the book in verse 23 when he simply calls himself a “minister.” This word was used to describe someone who waited on others or who served others. The first lesson I must learn in this challenge for living is that I am a servant – I am here to do God’s bidding and to “esteem others” above myself.

The apostle goes on in verse 24 to speak of his suffering for Christ and for them. Paul’s willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake and for the church has always amazed me. No one enjoys suffering and yet Paul patiently endured, to please Christ and bring the Gospel to his world. Likely I will not suffer as he suffered but I must be willing to endure whatever comes my way for the Gospel’s sake.

The next challenge for living that Paul mentions is the challenge of spreading the Gospel. He is compelled and commissioned by God to take the mystery of the good news to the Gentiles (verses 25-27). This commission still stands. We are responsible, as he was, to make known the way of salvation. I wonder how we are doing in that area.

Finally, in verses 28-29, the apostle challenges us regarding “the perfecting of the saints” or the teaching and mentoring of others with the idea of helping them to mature. He says, “…that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour…” The challenge, then, is to be involved with others with the distinct aim of assisting them in their pursuit of Christlikeness.

Paul was an example in ministry that we would do well to follow as we offer our lives for service to our Lord.

Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

Post by: Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

This article appears in the February 2012 Open Bible Bulletin. Please click here for a pdf copy.

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

Terry Anger

Encouraging, equipping, and enlisting God’s people through the proclamation of the truth!
Terry Anger, NBBI graduate of 1991 writes:

Approximately two years ago, God led my wife and me to found Rhema Community Bible Church to the glory of God’s name. One of our desires was to give young men who sensed the Lord’s call to pastoral ministry, introductory training through hands-on mentorship, guidance in the development of their preparational skills of expositional preaching and teaching, and the opportunity to exercise their gifts in the pulpit. Now, Having been involved in teaching God’s Word in churches, conferences and colleges over the past 20 years, God led us to begin this ministry we call “Rhema On The Road” which has taken us throughout Canada and the Eastern United States. Due to the increasing demand, God has led me to place the home church ministry into other capable hands allowing me to expand the ministry on the road, fulfilling the requests of an increasing number of churches.

Rhema is committed to encouraging both leaders and layman through seminars and conferences dealing with a number of theological themes and issues congruent with church ministry today. Presently, we are planning an Eastern tour in the spring and fall of 2012. If you require additional information, please visit the Rhema On The Road Ministries Blog or by calling (519) 512-0330. I trust that God will allow our paths to cross in upcoming days. Thank you for taking the time to consider what the ministry of “Rhema On The Road” can do to help you in encouraging your congregation to discover the deeper truths of God’s Word.

Rhema on the Road Ministries
28 Woodley Rd. RR#4
Waterford, ON  N0E 1Y0
Canada

web: http://rhemaontheroad.com/

During the second week of March break (March 8-18, 2012) a group of fourteen students, under the direction of Mr. Al Cabral and Mr. Keith McMahon will be travelling to Texas. For more than a decade, teams from NBBI have been assisting Pastor Wally and Jane Morillo with their ministry to teens at both Grace Community Church in Pharr, Texas and HEB Camp located in Leaky, Texas. This spring camp, sponsored by Grace Community Church, largely targets unchurched teens who may be hearing the Gospel for the first time.

Pray with us that God would be pleased to use this outreach to call many to Himself.

February 1    Steve Ranni – Lincoln Baptist Church, Lincoln, NB
February 2    Alex Bourgoin – CEF of Maine
February 7-10    John Romano -  CEF of Maine
February 16-17    John McKim – Friends of Israel
February 21-22    Darel Tozer – The People’s Church, Somerville, NB
February 23-24    John Ward – Word of Life Canada
February 28    Roger Black – Living Waters Bible Conference
February 29    Gaston Jolicour – Gideons International

Alejandra Corts (‘11) to Shawn Andres (‘11) on July 9 , 2011.

Births

August 25, 2011 – to John (Assoc. ’00) and Shantelle Leslie, a daughter, Addison Grace.
October 27, 2011 – to Richard and Jennifer (MacRaild, Assoc. ’96) Agnew, a son, Theo William Paul.
November 2, 2011 – to Mark (ABM ‘09) and Alicia (Moran, ABM ‘08) McKeen, a baby girl, Kendra Lynn.
November 7, 2011 – to Jake (ABM ‘06) and Karen (McKeen, ‘05) Adams, a baby girl, Joy Leanne.

Homegoing

Edgar Garnett, grad of 1951, went home to be with his Lord on December 11, 2011. Edgar had been such a blessing to so many over the years, both in his home church in Rothesay, NB and here at NBBI as he faithfully attended conferences and brought cheer to our students, staff and conference guests.

Link to Edgar Garnett’s obituary.

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/

February 1, 8, 15, 22 – Jacksontown Baptist Church – Jacksontown, NB – Extension Classes

JACK CARON

February 8, 15, 22 – The People’s Church – Somerville, NB – Bible Study

MATTHEW LITTLE

February 10-12 – Word of Life – Owen Sound, ON – Winter Retreat

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)

“Thou art worthy, O Lord”, “Thou art worthy…” and “Worthy is the Lamb…” These three phrases are found in Revelation 4 and 5 and are appropriately called by C.I. Scofield, “Universal adoration of the Lamb who is King.” As I thought about these phrases and about this season, I was reminded of the adoration given the baby Jesus by those present at and near His birth.

Luke records these instances of praise. The first is found in Luke 1:46 where Mary, Jesus’ mother, sings and prays with joy that her Saviour will be born. She calls Him mighty and merciful at a time in her life when she was still learning to trust and at the same time questioning how this miracle could have occurred. He is worthy of our praise even when we don’t fully understand His will.

The second instance is found later in the chapter and records John’s father’s voice of praise. Zacharias blesses God for salvation in the house of David and for his son, John, “the prophet of the Highest.” Adoration and praise to Jesus should be given for those faithful servants He raises up for His glory.

In Luke 2, the shepherds were the next recorded ones to worship Him. After the angels appeared to them, they travelled to Bethlehem and testified of the One they had seen. (Luke2:20) “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, …”

The overflow and result of our love and adoration for our Saviour should be the telling of the good news of salvation.

Simeon, the temple priest, praised God as he held the child Jesus and called Him God’s light and salvation to Jew and Gentile.

May we, during this season of celebrating Christ’s birth, be careful to love, praise and worship Him. He is the One who eventually died and rose again to pay the penalty for our sin so that we might live for eternity in Heaven. Let’s celebrate the season for what it really is – the birth of God’s greatest Gift.

This post is by: Robert Booker, NBBI Vice-President

The above article appears in the December 2011 Open Bible Bulletin.

Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

“The doctor said we are having a boy!” So went the conversation as our daughter-in-law phoned my wife with this exciting news. Then she said, “Are you sitting down?” as she broke the wonderful news that they are having not just one but two boys! Twins! I cannot describe the joy that overwhelmed us as grandparents upon receiving this great information.

As I thought about this Christmas challenge, I reconsidered the good news of the Gospel – of Christ’s birth. The prophet Isaiah said, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:…” The angel of the Lord declared to Joseph in Matthew 1:21, “and she (Mary) shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus:…” Later, when Mary began to understand what God was doing and what this Son would do, she sang a joyous song of praise which is recorded in Luke 1.

You see, we don’t know what our twins will accomplish or how their lives will impact mankind or in what way they will be used by God for His glory, but we do know what God’s Son, Jesus, has done and how God’s will has been fulfilled through Him.

Jesus was born to die. While His comparatively short life on this earth was full of meaning and full of teaching and training, His death and resurrection satisfied the demands of our Holy God in that Christ’s death was the price or “wages” paid for the penalty of the sins of the whole world. Anyone who realizes that he/she is a sinner, and repents and places his/her faith in Christ and His substitutionary death will be saved from eternity in hell and to eternal live in heaven.

During this season, much will be said, printed and preached about the miracle birth of God’s Son. Will you allow this good news of Jesus’ love make this the greatest and most meaningful Christmas you have ever experienced?

Post by: Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice-President

This article appears in the December 2011 Open Bible Bulletin.

As our students arrived on our campus in September, it was not long before the bats, balls and gloves came out for our annual softball league. Our league happens to be the most diverse in all of Carleton County. We boast  students from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Argentina, Ecuador, South Korea, Bolivia, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. We haven’t noticed any major league scouts in the crowd, but it is competitive and fun none-the-less.

We had six teams compete for the coveted championship trophy and the teams gave it their all. In the end the Little’s Legends prevailed against the Muir’s Marlins in the championship game. The players on the winning team were: Devin Groff, Philippe Bélanger, David Hoag, Jared Long, Brianna Redlon, Adam Clark, Young Oh, Justina Barter, Jean-Michel Briere, Natalie Paterson and Christina Johnson.

We also wish to acknowledge Tom MacIntosh, one of our married students, who took upon himself the unpopular task of heading up our umpiring squads. Thank you for your work Tom and thanks to students and staff alike for the memorable year.

Post by: Matthew Little, NBBI Sports Director, Faculty

This summer I worked for six weeks at Living Waters Bible Camp. It was a busy and amazing summer. One of the weeks, I had a cabin of five girls, all of whom I had the previous year, two which were not saved. During the week, with the meeting and devotional times, I could tell the were thinking because of their questions but they had made no decision for Christ. They did not understand the gospel and it was frustrating because I was trying to explain it and they just could not get it. All I could do during that week was pray that God would work!

On Thursday night during campfire, after the gospel was shared again and the invitation to stay was given, all my girls stayed behind and three rededicated their lives to the Lord. One of them just listened to the gospel being presented again but did not make a decision that I know of. The other girl, Danielle, believed the gospel and got saved that night. It was amazing to see God work in her life and also to realize that I can only proclaim the gospel but God does the work in the lives of people.

Natalie is the daughter of Colby (’87) & Lesa (Hosford, ’87) Holmes, grads serving in Argentina, and grandaughter of the late Ronald Holmes (’57) & Margaret (Scott, ’57) Holmes Gualtieri who also served for years in Argentina.

Post by: Natalie Holmes – NBBI Senior Student

Greg and Lily Muir and sons, Patrick, Andres and Josh, are living here in Victoria Corner while home on furlough. What a privilege it is to have them close by and participating in our school chapels. Please pray for them as they travel this year, for their family and the boys’ schooling.

Post by: Bob Booker, Alumni Committee

Editor’s note: Lily Muir recently shared her testimony at our Ladies’ Conference. Click below to listen:

Heidi Clark (ABM ’11) to Tyler Hill (’11) on October 8, 2011.

BIRTHS

September 9, 2011 – to John and Karen (Towle, ABM ’01) Partridge, a daughter, Ruth Lindsey.
September 17, 2011 – to Carson (’99) and Sarah Younker, a daughter, Sherry Rebecca.
October 25, 2011 – to Ricky (’09) and Emily (Wheaton,Assoc. ’08) Mitton, twin boys, Andrew Dwayne and Joshua Herman.
October 31, 2011 – to Bill (’95) and Maria Mooney, a son, Joseph Patrick.
November 1, 2011 – to Tom (Assoc ’10 and current senior student) and Deborah (Assoc ’10) MacIntosh,a daughter, Kyllah Lisa-Marie.

HOMEGOING

Winnie Mitchell, wife of graduate, David Mitchell (’73), went home to be with her Lord on October 21, 2011. Winnie also worked in our kitchen at NBBI in 1972-1973.

December 14 – The People’s Church – Somerville, NB – Mid-Week Service

JOHN HOAG

December 1,8,15 – Dumfries Community Bible Study – Dumfries, NB
December 4 – Open Bible Campus Church – Victoria Corner, NB – Morning Service

MATTHEW LITTLE

December 4 – Coldstream Baptist Church – Coldstream, NB – Morning Service

Last night I received a phone call from a friend whose aged mother was in the hospital, living her last few days on this earth. My mind quickly drifted and fond memories of times spent with this friend flooded my mind. I would love to share a couple of those humourous stories with you but space does not permit. We don’t spend much time together anymore, but the Christian bond that had been made in those early days of our Christian lives will never be broken. I will always remember my friend!

November, of course, is the month US we set time aside to remember those who gave their lives for our freedom. World War I and World War II seem so distant now. There are few living who experienced those most difficult days and we are so quick to forget their sacrifice. Last summer, as I was browsing the web, I came across my grandfather’s attestation papers for the Naval Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force. He made it in just as the first world war had ended. As many in his day, he had a great desire to fight for freedom. Many of our friends will remember the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and still quite fresh in all of our minds are “Desert Storm,” the Gulf war, “9-11,” the destruction of the Twin Towers and our continuing struggles in Afghanistan and Iraq. We have all been touched by those who gave of their lives. We will always remember our friends!

Over 2,000 years ago, God the Father sent His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to this earth to fight a battle which would bring freedom forever! Humanly speaking, it didn’t seem like much of a battle. Even while He was being betrayed by one of His own, Jesus Christ calmly told Peter to put away his sword and then healed the enemy’s guard whom His disciple had wounded. He gave hardly any defense when accused by the authorities. He didn’t even struggle when being led to his death. I suppose secular historians of that day would have said His final defeat took place when He was nailed to and crucified on the cross, but just the opposite was true. In Romans 5:8 we read, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” When Jesus Christ died on that cross, He paid the penalty which was set by God Himself as the punishment for our sin (Romans 6:23). Three days later, when He rose from the dead, Christ conquered the grave, He conquered Satan and He conquered death itself to bring new life to those who would receive it (1 Corinthians 15:51-58).

In 1973, I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. After listening to my brother explain the wonderful news of salvation, later that night, I knelt beside my bed and accepted God’s free gift of salvation. Christ became my Saviour and my closest friend. I will always remember this Friend! Will you?

Post by: Larry Rushton, Open Bible Bulletin Editor

It is obvious that the world system is in great turmoil. It doesn’t take many newspaper subscriptions or news broad- casts to confirm the Apostle Paul’s statement in Philippians 2:15 that we live in the presence of a society that has turned away from the Truth. With that in mind, we must be more determined than ever to stand firmly on the truth of the Word of God which is the only perfect and reliable standard.

I am reminded of Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 6:11- 14 where he used the word “stand” or “withstand” four times. Evidently, those who follow Christ are expected to stand firm in these days of chaos and are cautioned that it will be absolutely necessary. “Stand” or “withstand” here means to be firm, established, and to resist evil and twisted thoughts and actions.

The new “deacon”, Stephen, in Acts 6 and 7, is a notable example of standing for the faith. He had just been appointed, with others, to handle some business matters in the new church and while preaching and teaching was brought before the authorities who, as he stood there looking up into heaven and declaring the glory of God, murdered him in their anger and twisted thinking. What a cost to stand!

I am reminded of the apostle’s declaration in 1 Corinthians 15:1 concerning the Gospel preached. He said that they should stand in the Gospel they received. What a positive note – to stand firm in the glorious Gospel that saved us!

These are difficult days to live in this world system, but our God is all powerful and He honours those who steadfastly live and witness for Him.

We at NBBI pledge, by God’s grace, to stand squarely on the true, holy Word of God and to teach it faithfully in the classroom and in life to those who entrust to us their preparation for service.

Post by: Dr. Robert Booker, NBBI Vice President

I would like to pay tribute this month to a young couple who impacted NBBI over the past few years and served well while on our staff at NBBI, Matt and Marcy Larabie.

When Matt first joined our team in 2006, he held the position of Registrar and at the same time managed the sports’ department and oversaw the music department. He later ministered as our Dean of Men. For a year, Marcy worked in our bookstore and then became a full-time mom to their twin daughters, Alexis and Victoria, whom we all adopted.

Post by: Robert Booker, NBBI Alumni Committee

MATTHEW LITTLE

November 7,14,21,28 – Lincoln Baptist Church – Lincoln, NB – Extension Classes

November 13 – Coldstream Baptist Church – Coldstream, NB – Sunday Morning Service

November 19 -  Marston’s Corner Baptist Church – Lewiston, ME – Extension Classes

November 20 – Winterport Fellowship – Winterport, ME – Sunday Morning Service

November 4 – Dr. Jeff Tuttle – Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary

November 8-9 – Marty Frisk – Christar

November 10 – Mark Rockwood & Brian Ritchie – Berean Baptist Church

November 15 – Don Longworth – SIM

November 17-18 – Pete & Carly Nichols – New Tribes Mission

November 21-22 – David Schmidt – ABWE

November 29 – Marsha Boyd-Mitchell  – Christian Action Federation