NEW to First Baptist Clarksville? WELCOME! We’re so glad you’re worshiping with us! We’d love for you to fill out an online Connect Card so that we can learn more about you and help get you connected! Visit fbct.org/connectcard and someone will contact you shortly!
November 17, 2024 IN-PERSON SERMON
Dr. Ronny Raines, Senior Pastor
The Lord’s Prayer: Resentment or Release
Matthew 6:12
12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
What comes to mind when you hear the word, "debts?"
The Lord's Prayer is about how we live, not just about what we say.
What do you and I need today?
I. A Gracious Father
1. He's Aware
2. He's Approachable
II. A Powerful Plea
1. Eternal Forgiveness
2. Daily Forgiveness
III. A Mature Behavior
1. The Absence of Conditional Forgiveness
2. The Presence of Redemptive Conversations
Four Consequences of Unforgiveness:
1. Disgraces Our Father
2. Damages Our Church
3. Discredits Our Message
4. Delights Our Enemy
November 17, 2024 STUDY GUIDE
The Lord’s Prayer: Resentment or Release
Matthew 6:12
What comes to mind when you hear the word, "debts?" Take the time now to discuss your answers. Many people know firsthand the reality of financial debt, meaning they have house payments, car loans, or student loans.
As you open the pages of God's Word, you see another kind of debt. It's called spiritual debt. You've sinned against God (Romans 3:23). As a gracious and good heavenly Father, He promises forgiveness (1 John 1:9).
Talk about and reflect on these statements about forgiveness:
Forgiveness is needed
Forgiveness is available
Forgiveness is offered
1. A Gracious Father. What do you know about God? Read the following Bible verses: Exodus 34:6-7; Lamentations 3:22-23. What do those verses reveal? God loves you (John 3:16). When you think of God as a gracious Father, you must consider His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. How have you experienced Him as a gracious Father? Share your experiences with your group.
2. A Powerful Plea. Martin Luther said, "I look at myself and say, 'What a sinner.' I look at Jesus and say, 'What a Savior.'" Discuss these statements about sin: (1) Sin separates you from God (Romans 6:23). (2) Sin hinders your fellowship with God (Psalm 51). You need to understand confession and forgiveness. How have you practiced confession and experienced forgiveness?
3. A Mature Behavior. Obeying God's call to take the gospel to the nations requires maturity. Forgiving people who've hurt or wounded you demands maturity, too. How do you define forgiveness? Read John 8:32 and John 8:36 in your group. Are you living free in Jesus? Is your forgiveness of other people conditional or unconditional? How has Jesus forgiven you?
Before you wrap up your group time this week, talk about the consequences of unforgiveness. You can answer the following questions.
1. How does unforgiveness affect your Father's reputation and glory?
2. What does unforgiveness do to the Lord's church, your local church?
3. In what ways does unforgiveness affect your evangelistic witness to other people?
4. How does unforgiveness delight your enemy, your spiritual adversary?
Please know that FBC Clarksville is thankful for you. We always invite you to worship with us in person on Sundays. If that's not possible, we welcome you to connect with us by live stream or on one of our social media platforms. We're thankful for you!
Have a fruitful time of study and prayer this week!
View all of the "The Lord’s Prayer" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/thelordsprayer.
At First Baptist, an important part of how we function is by connecting with each other as well as creating an atmosphere that is conducive to growing in our relationship with God and with others. One way in which we make strides to achieve that goal is through Connect Groups. Even during this time, we have online Connect Group opportunities as well as in-person Connect Groups that meet at 9:00am! Learn more about connecting opportunities by visiting fbct.org/connectgroups.
SUNDAY NIGHT D-GROUP GROUP (5:00PM):
Grief Share | Room 2208 | 5:00pm | Led by Lyle & Pam Carlson | July 7-September 29
Grief Share is a support group to help you move through the grief process. It is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief.
MONDAY NIGHT D-GROUP (6:30PM):
Monday Ladies, Room 2208, 6:30pm, Led by Melanie Boisseau, Oct 21-Dec 2
This is a group of 20-30 ladies who are from different churches across Clarksville. The class reaches ladies of all ages. They will be studying Kristi McLelland “Luke in the Land.” It is a 7 week study.
TUESDAY MORNING CONNECT GROUP (6:30AM):
Men’s Prayer Group | Chick-fil-A | 6:30am | Led by Ron Pendergrass
Currently they are studying through the book of Hebrews. Hebrews is a great book to highlight the greatness of the new covenant, and the greater sacrifice of Christ
TUESDAY EVENING D-GROUP (6:00PM):
MomLife, Steeple Landing, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:00-8:00pm, September-May, 3rd Floor Steeple Landing, Led by Tabitha Dowdy, fbct.org/momlife
MomLife exists to see groups of moms in all ages and stages grow in their faith and spiritual friendships. WHOLEHEARTED - LOVING GOD: HEART, SOUL, MIND, & STRENGTH
Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31, ESV)
WEDNESDAY MORNING (9:30AM):
Explorers, 3rd Floor Hope Building, 9:30-11:30am, August-May, Led by Becky Bourne
fbct.org/explorers
1st Semester: 1 Corinthians, 2nd Semester: Esther, Jonah, Philippians
Wednesday Night (6:00pm):
Pastor’s Study, Grace Worship Center, Led by Dr. Ronny Raines
Pastor Ronny is going through an overview of the Bible where a different book of the Bible is taught each Wednesday night.Hispanic Bible Study | Room 2123 | Led by Nestor Martinez
Seamless | Room FH2230 | Led by Mikka Doyle | 7 week Bible study for ladies.
In 7 sessions, Seamless covers the people, places, and promises of the Bible, tying them together into the greater story of Scripture. Whether you’ve grown up hearing Bible stories or you’re exploring Scripture for the first time, the full story of the Bible can be overwhelming. Experience the Bible as a whole as you gain clarity and confidence in your understanding of Scripture. Discover a biblical context that reshapes and brings to life stories from the Old and New Testaments.Revelation by Jen Wilkin, Room 2327, Led by Debbie Farrell
Perhaps no other book of the Bible feels as inaccessible and as intimidating to us as the very last one. The book of Revelation overflows with images and ideas that confound our modern ears. But if all Scripture is God-breathed and profitable, we should assume Revelation is as accessible and helpful as any other book of the Bible. Why don’t we see it that way?
Two thousand years ago, John’s Revelation was circulated and read aloud among seven churches in Asia Minor. Those who heard the letter understood it and drew encouragement from its message. The same can be true for you today. Over 10 sessions of verse-by-verse Bible study, Jen Wilkin helps you discover how the last book of the Bible—the culmination of God’s great story—speaks both a steadying word of assurance and a strong call to endure to the church in every age
Thank you for your faithful giving to First Baptist Clarksville. Your financial support and investment in our church has a direct impact on our ministry. God is at work in our church and because you give, we are able to see lives touched, changed and redirected to honor Him. Learn more about different ways to give at fbct.org/giving or give instantly at fbct.org/give.
Our Pastor has called us to make every Friday a Day of Prayer. We invite you to join us. No need to sign up, just pray. We ask you to set aside 15 minutes during the day to stop and pray. A new prayer guide will be posted at fbct.org/pray each Thursday to help direct your prayer time.
Of course, every day is a day for us to pray. We are reminded to continually be in a spirit of prayer.
2 Chronicles 7:14 ”And my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.”
We’d love for you to like and follow us on social media! It’s a great way to stay up-to-date and connected with our First Family! When you visit us for in-church worship, we’d love for you to check-in! This is a great way to invite others to join you! Or if you’re at home or in-person, take a photo of what worship looks like where you’re at and who you’re with and tag us, and be sure to share the online worship so others can worship with us!
SAVE THE DATES:
November 17: Missions Day
November 17: Return Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes
November 20 - 4:30-6:00pm: Thanksgiving Dinner | Laida Fellowship Hall | fbct.org/thanksgiving
November 20 - 6:00pm: Thanksgiving Service | Laida Fellowship Hall
November 25-January 3: Tour of Christmas Trees
November 27: NO Wednesday Evening Activities (Thanksgiving)
November 28-29: Church Offices Closed
December 7 - 5:00pm: Clarksville Christmas Parade
December 13 - 6-9pm: Parent’s Night Out | fbct.org/pno
December 18 - 4:30-6:00pm: Christmas Dinner | Laida Fellowship Hall | fbct.org/christmasdinner
December 18 - 6:00pm: Christmas Service | Laida Fellowship Hall
December 24-27: Church Offices Closed
December 24 - 5:00pm: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
December 25: NO Wednesday Evening Activities (Christmas)
December 29: NO 9am Connect Groups - 10:30am Worship ONLY
December 31-January 1: Church Offices Closed
January 1: NO Wednesday Evening Activities (New Years)
January 12, 2025 - 12-2pm: First Steps Class | fbct.org/firststeps
October 10-22, 2025: Journeys of Paul Tour | fbct.org/journeysofpaul
2024 BIBLE READING PLAN
Follow along with us as we read the Bible through in 2024! There are three versions you can choose from to follow along with, Through the Bible, Chronological, and New Testament.
THANKSGIVING DINNER AND WORSHIP SERVICE
Wednesday, November 20 | 4:30-6:00 pm | Laida Fellowship Hall
Join us on Wednesday, November 20 from 4:30-6:00pm for Thanksgiving Dinner and for a Thanksgiving Worship Service that will begin at 6:00pm immediately following dinner! Tickets for Dinner are just $10 per person, and kids 10 and under eat FREE!
Parents Night Out
Friday, December 13 | 6:00-9:00 PM
Our FBCT family is offering you the opportunity to have a few hours of childcare during the busy Christmas season. Imagine what you could do: Christmas shopping without kids, fellowshipping with Connect Group members, dining out with a spouse or friend, or enjoying peace and quiet.
Our trusted and caring FBCT childcare workers and volunteers will engage your children with fun, age-appropriate Christmas activities while you're out, ensuring they’re well cared for.
Rest easy knowing your children are in a safe, nurturing environment. Take this chance to recharge, knowing you’re returning to happy kids!
Registration will close on December 10th.
The cost is $10.00 per child with a $25.00 family max.
For preschoolers and kids ages 12 weeks to 3rd grade.
Register Early, as Space is Limited!
Contact Karen Bone at 931.245.0004 or email Karen at preschool@fbct.org with any questions or concerns.
CHRISTMAS DINNER AND FELLOWSHIP
Wednesday, December 18 | 4:30-6:00 pm | Laida Fellowship Hall
Join us for Christmas Dinner and Fellowship on Wednesday, December 18 from 4:30-6pm. We will enjoy Dinner, a time of Christmas carols, and a wonderful time of fellowship. At 6pm we will enjoy a Christmas Service in the laid Fellowship Hall and Preschool, Kids, and Students will meet for Christmas parties. Tickets for Dinner are just $10 per person, and kids 10 and under eat FREE!
FIRST STEPS CLASS
UPCOMING CLASS: JANUARY 12, 2025, 12-2 pm
LOCATION: Grace BUILDING, Third Floor Steeple Landing
Our First Steps class is designed for new members and guests. We invite you to join our Senior Pastor, Dr. Ronny Raines, and our ministry team for our next membership class. We'll treat you to a delicious lunch and then help you discover how God wants to use you at First Baptist Church. As you attend the class, we'll cover the following subjects:
A personal relationship with Jesus Christ
Meaning of church membership
Biblical baptism
The Lord's Supper
The church's beliefs and vision
Opportunities to give
Ways to serve in the church
Ministries at First Baptist Church
Meet our ministry team
Time for Q&A
Tour our church facilities
We hope you'll join us for our next First Steps class. You can register by filling out the online form HERE or contacting Dana in the pastor's office at 931.245.0000 or dana.abee@fbct.org.
FIRST BAPTIST MUSIC
Check out all of the First Baptist Worship Team videos from our online worship services at fbct.org/music.
THE VOICE - MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Stay up to date with all that is going with our monthly newsletter, the Voice! Visit fbct.org/voice!
MEMBERSHIP AND GIVING TOOLS
Fellowship, Worship and Discipleship are fundamental to an obedient life in Christ. First Baptist Church maintains several tools to help us stay connected, share and offer the sacrifice of praise, and grow together. Scroll to the bottom of the home page at fbct.org and click on "app" to see options for adding these tools to your phone or other device. You can use these tools to stay connected to your discipleship group, contact the church, watch past worship services and sermons, as well as support the FBC financially as the Lord directs for you and your family. There are even instructions for how to access these tools using your web browser.
Using these apps, updating your profile information to share with the church is easy. When changes occur in your family life such as a move to a new home, change in email address, etc. you can update your information to be sure that our communication with you is efficient. You can even add a picture to make it easier for your church family to put a name with a face!
Information about any groups that might be of interest to you, such as Connect Groups, teams, committees, etc will be available as well. Group Leaders can use the tools to take attendance online and access other features. You can contact the church through the app, read messages from group members/leaders and browse the church directory.
Check out fbct.org/app for instructions on how to get the app and reach the membership and giving website.
LOVE the time of worship through song today? You can follow us on Spotify and listen to our playlist each week! Follow us on Spotify “First Clarksville” and sing along!
Check out these Staff Picks for Books and Resources for all ages!
Many of these materials are available in the church library, room 2326, on the third floor.
You may locate them by searching the online catalog at fbct.org/library.
If you are interested in volunteering anywhere throughout the campus, please visit fbct.org/volunteer and let us know!
PRESCHOOL MINISTRY
9 am Connect Group Hour
Greeter/Attendance
Connect Group Assistant Leader
Connect Group Leader
10:30 Worship Hour
Greeter/Attendance
Worship Hour Smiles Team Member
Wednesday 6 pm
Wednesday PM Babies Helper
Wednesday PM Pre-K TeamKID Leader & Assistant Leader
KIDS MINISTRY
Teachers for elementary-age kids for Connect Groups
STUDENT MINISTRY
Group Leaders and Co-Leaders
COMMUNICATIONS MINISTRY
Photographers (capture Sunday mornings and events)
In-Person Worship Camera Operators for Online Service
TECH MINISTRY
Audio, Video, and Lighting
MILITARY MINISTRY
Military Appreciation Team
Event Coordination Team
Mentor Group
Research Assistance Team
Resource Management Team
WORSHIP MINISTRY
Adult Choir, Worship Team, Musicians
FIRST EVENTS MINISTRY
Kitchen helpers needed - making coffee, serving food, and setting up and cleaning up after events.
Legacy Ministry
Loving Touch Care for the Homebound and Nursing Homes
FIRST IMPRESSIONS Ministry
Sunday Morning First Impressions Greeters and Connectors
Lillian Bradley Church Library Ministry
Displays/bulletin boards
Advertising
Book processing
Typing
Man circulation desk
JOIN US THIS SUNDAY FOR IN-PERSON WORSHIP!
IN-PERSON Opportunities:
Sundays: 9:00am (Connect Groups)
Sundays: 10:30am (Worship)
Wednesdays: 4:30-6:00pm (Dinner)
Wednesdays: 6:00-7:15pm (Connect Groups)
Online Worship Opportunities:
Saturdays: 7:00pm
Sundays: 10:30am, 2:00pm, 7:00pm
Mondays: 7:00pm
Wednesdays: 6:00pm
Facebook: facebook.com/firstclarksville
YouTube: youtube.com/firstclarksville
Website: fbct.org/live
LIVE on Facebook: facebook.com/firstclarksville. After the live event, you can replay on this same Facebook page. We will stream on Sundays at 10:30am, 2pm, and 7pm, Mondays at 7pm, Wednesdays at 6pm, and Saturdays at 7pm.
LIVE on Youtube: youtube.com/firstclarksville.
You can listen to and watch past services at fbct.org/sermonarchive
You can also watch a recent sermon on television through WCKV-TV which is Channel 6 on Charter/Spectrum, Channel 12 on CDE Lightband and over the air through an antenna on Channel 22.1. These programs air at:
- 9:00am on Sundays
- 4:30am on Mondays
- 7:00pm on Mondays
- 8:30am on Wednesdays
- 4:30am on Thursdays
- 4:00am on Fridays
QUESTIONS? Email us at info@fbct.org.