Pastor's Blog

Here is a follow up tothis earlier post about my former classmate at Masters Seminary now in jail for leading and meeting with his church according to his conscience and convictions from God's Word.Be sure to scroll down to read the appeal of Erin Coates for her husband where she explains his convictions and the impact on her and their family. PRAYER UPDATE: On Friday 3...

Today let's soberly obey Hebrews 13:3 "Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body." Scroll to the bottom for updated prayer requests for Pastor James Coates from his elders and updates from his wife. This hits close to home as this pastor is a classmate of mine in my seminary program at...

On January 24th, 2021 our Elders asked Greg Ross, a godly older man in our church, to pray for our new President (Joe Biden) and for our nation. Greg's prayer was a model of humility, dependence, and heartfelt honesty in light of challenging times in our nation. Below is the transcript from Greg's prayer. ---------------------- Good morning, I've been asked to pray f...

Church family, I wanted to to remind you of the challenge from last Sunday AM to memorize Colossians 3:16-17 to help treasure His word:Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in t...

This was the study we went through as Elders this past Saturday, the same day we heard of another member who went to with the Lord he loved. I put these scriptures together and quotes from this book I read a number of years ago. Very timely reminders for us as we're called to be with those who mourn, but not as the world does without hope. Being with and Speaking with G...

Since last Sunday's message (click here to listen or watch it) much has happened politically and personally. There has been loss of order regarding the elections in our nation. Closer to home, there has been loss of life affecting our church family (loved ones dying of old age). I also know dear saints who battle depression and the loss of hope. As you and I strive to enco...

Below is the prayer list referenced in today's sermon. Click here for a print-friendly bookmark size version of this you can keep in your Bible or prayer journal. How to Pray for Your Church, Shepherds and Teachers Humility - that we would be constantly fighting personal pride and cultivating humility, and striving to spread a high view of God and low view of self. ...

Here are some the links pastor Phil mentioned in his sermon here on racism, divisions, and how Christ is sufficient Each of these in different ways I found helpful to hear conversations with our black brethren and to have compassion and sensitivity to their perspectives. Article by Shai Linne to a white friend on how he processes protests and prejudice Link to pod...

Below are the lyrics and video for a new song that our kiddos will be singing on December 20th to bless us this Christmas season. Start listening, and have fun! Sing We The Song Of Emmanuel (Matt Boswell) Verse 1 Sing we the song of Emmanuel This the Christ who was long foretold Lo in the shadows of Bethlehem Promise of dawn now our eyes behold Chorus 1 God Most H...

Safety Plans for GCBC Services (as of August 2020, footnotes updated 11/20) The Elders shepherding the GCBC flock are very prayerful and careful for you all and want to gather safely and in unity for God's glory (Romans 15:5-6). We believe the details of how we gather in worship are the jurisdiction and responsibility of church leaders under Christ and His loving headship...