Dates: April 19th- July 1st
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: SportsLife Complex Softball Fields

This is our first ever SportsLife kickball league!! The cost is $10 per individual or $15 per couple and this does not include team t-shirts. Must be 16 years old or older to play. Games will be played on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday nights depending on the number of registered teams. This is a great way to get in shape for summer and have a fun time of fellowship with one another at the same time. Don’t miss out on the fun!  For official rules, click here .

Register Now

An Authentic Follower Of Christ from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

We are making preparations to make this the greatest Easter week in the history of our church. This year we are going to be more intentional than ever in taking the message of the Gospel to our community. We believe this is an innovative way for us to touch thousands of people across our region. We are calling this new approach, “Easter in the Community.”

Here’s The Plan:

The week of March 29–April 4, we want to hold Easter services all over this region in every imaginable place possible. We want to be in businesses, nursing homes, hospitals, and any other place that will allow us to hold a brief Easter service. Our pastors will be completely devoted to leading and preaching these services throughout the week.

What Can You Do?

Commit to hold one of these brief Easter services in your workplace. What a great way this is for you to step up and step out as a devoted follower of Christ. If you would like to have a pastor come and lead one of these services at your place of business, nursing home, hospital, etc., e-mail easter@fbcs.net. One of our pastors will be contacted and will help you work out details for your specific Easter service.

Discover Shiloh Days are great days for families that have an interest in sending their children to Shiloh to visit. Our mission is to develop Godly leaders who will engage in and change their culture for Christ.  Discover Shiloh Days will provide parents and students the opportunity to be exposed to everything Shiloh. Tour our facilities, meet current students, visit with teachers, experience a Shiloh Chapel, and meet other important Shiloh staff during your visit. There will be specific events for both parents and students. The upcoming dates are March 11th, April 1st, and May 6th. To learn more or reregister click here .

What Does God Say To Us About The Next Generation from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Even Now: Make Your Decision from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Even Now: I Will Pour Out My Spirit from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: Wednesday, March 10
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: FBC Kidz Theatre

Come have dinner with Pastor and Jeana Floyd.  This is a great opportunity, in a casual atmosphere, for new members and guests to have dinner with our Ministry Team and learn more about the First Baptist Church of Springdale. Children ages 12 and up are invited to attend. Childcare is provided for children birth–11 years old.  Contact Debbie Ritter for more information.

Register Now

Here are some photos taken by Rachel Blackwell at our Young Couples marriage retreat.

Click here to download the entire February 2010 edition of RealLife.

On February 27 and 28 of last year, men from all over Northwest Arkansas were invited to attend a conference at The Church at Pinnacle Hills entitled Fearless. Our church leaders began planning for the conference with the hope of engaging between 400 and 500 men. Instead, just over 1,100 men participated in Fearless, far surpassing all expectations. Shawn Smith, Springdale Campus Pastor, describes, “God blew us away. We had men who came who had lost their jobs, sons who came with their fathers, and God met us in a powerful way….”

Two of those men in attendance were Ken Hough and Mark Sewell.

Ken Hough, an employee of Tyson Foods, began attending The Church at Pinnacle Hills with his fiancé, Nicole. The couple’s relationship was in trouble, and Ken admits he was “searching for answers.” Ken contemplated attending the conference but was “unsure if [he] wanted to take the step.” He explains, “This was all new to me. Finally, Nicole just asked if I wanted to go. Next thing I knew, she registered me. Truth is, it was God’s pursuit of me working through Nicole. And I had no idea what to expect.”

But when Ken stepped into the Pinnacle Hills Gatheria on the first night of the conference, he was “amazed how welcoming, helpful, friendly, and kind everyone was, and the conference hadn’t even started yet.” A short time later, as Pastor Ronnie Floyd began speaking from the book of Daniel, Ken’s mind resonated with one thought, “I want to be that man. I want to be fearless.”

Later, during Nick Floyd’s message, “Fearless through Weakness,” Ken was struck by the idea that “God’s grace is sufficient.” Ken explains, “I think it was then that I truly started to feel weak. The whole time I had been trying to do everything on my own, be in control… in the driver’s seat. I thought I could fix what was broken. I sat there numb.”

As Nick concluded, Pastor Floyd took the stage and ended the session with an invitation. Ken remembers, “It was the first time I had ever gotten up from my seat during an invitation. It was the first time I ever prayed and opened myself to God, saying, ‘I can’t do this myself anymore. I am weak, but your grace IS sufficient.’ At that moment, it was like a chilling rush of calm and peace came pouring from the back of the Worship Center over me. The tears stopped. I felt together and at peace. I looked around at all the other men at the altar and wondered what had just happened.”

Shortly after, Ken met with Nick Floyd at a local restaurant, and in Ken’s words, “I took my first steps in becoming a fearless man.” On that day in that restaurant, Ken accepted Jesus Christ. “I was ready,” Ken said. “… And it was my decision.”

When asked how the Fearless conference affected his life, Ken responded, “Well, I was saved. That’s a pretty huge effect. I’m not perfect… nowhere near. But the Fearless conference allowed me to start reaching out and making friends with good Christian men who will help pick me up when I fall and help me with my walk as I continue to grow in Christ.”

Mark Sewell also attended Fearless. Mark, a father of three and a local chiropractor, was a member of First Baptist Church of Springdale and drawn to the conference by the title. He explains, “I realized that I was fearful of totally surrendering every area of my life to the Lord. I knew that if men would humble themselves… and truly abandon themselves to the will of the Father, something amazing would happen. I wanted to be a partaker of what the Lord had in store….”

And Mark was not disappointed. He remembers the moment that “touched his heart” near the conference’s end and time of invitation—the same invitation Ken Hough walked the aisle for the first time. Mark recalls, “Men went forward with hearts that were broken before the Lord. I could tell walls were falling down and men were being set free from all kinds of fear.”

Mark Sewell believes the Fearless conference helped him renew a passion to be courageous for the Lord. “The humility I saw in other men encouraged me to know that I am not alone—that other men face the same challenges that I do every day. I was challenged to live my life for eternity; to live fearlessly for my King; to totally surrender every area of my life to Him; to see Him first in all things; and to abide in Him.”

When asked how he would encourage other men to attend the upcoming men’s conference, Mark answered, “I would tell them that if we seek Him, we will find Him. There is nothing more important for any man than being what God has created him to be. I would tell them that we need to learn to lean on one another instead of trying to do it all on our own.” Ken Hough is the first to agree. He adds, “If you’re thinking about going, stop thinking about it and just register. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

This year, the Northwest Arkansas Men’s Conference: Men at the Cross, will be held on February 26 and 27 at The Church at Pinnacle Hills. The conference will be partnering with Joe White, Rick Rigsby, and Men at the Cross, a “ministry of radically committed men serving Christ, family, church, and the workplace.” Speakers include Dr. Joe White, Dr. Rick Rigsby, Dr. Ronnie Floyd, and Dr. Nick Floyd, and worship will be led by Josh Stanbery.

Take it from Ken Hough. “Lives were changed last year, and lives will certainly be changed again. When it was all said and done at Fearless, it was difficult for me to find the words to describe the experience. You just have to feel it for yourself.”

Ken and Nicole Hough were married by Nick Floyd in May 2009. They have two children, Drew and Peyton, and a baby on the way. Mark Sewell and his wife Regina live in Springdale and have three children, Hayle, Braegan, and Blayne.

Click here to download the entire February 2010 edition of RealLife.

Even Now: The Lord Answers from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Welcome to the Great Date Experiment!  This experiment is for all married couples, whether you are from Northwest Arkansas or not.  We realize that the longer you are married, the more difficult it becomes to come up with good date ideas for a night out with your spouse.  With the help of our friends from North Point Community Church, we will be rolling out six planned- out dates over the next few months for you and your spouse to go on.  All you need to do is download the date idea from this page, print it out, and you will be on your way to an amazing time with your spouse.  Make sure and follow the directions carefully without skipping ahead!  Along the way, we would love to hear about your dates by emailing us at datestory@fbcs.net and we will post some of the best stories here on this website.

Great Date #2 will be on Friday, March 5th and will be followed by dates on March 19th, April 9th, April 23, and May 7th.  Use this resource as an opportunity to do fun new things designed to bring you and your spouse closer, create memories, and just enjoy life together.

For those of you living in the Springdale area, we will be offering free childcare on these nights through our Friday Night Out program.  If you would like more information about childcare, email ryanb@fbcs.net or click on the Friday NIght Out link on the right side of this webpage.

Even Now: Even Now from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: April 17, 18
Time: 8:00 PM-11:45 AM
Location for check-in: SEC foyer

We’re doing it again! Get ready for 16 HOURS version 3.0, bigger and better than ever! We’re having a giant lock-in the night before Kidz Day 2010 that will include a concert by YANCY, food, fun, a trip to Lokomotion, more food, a little shut eye, more food, and a fantastic KIDZ CHURCH BLOW-OUT, including more of YANCY. Cost is $30 per child.  You’ll need to bring sleeping gear, toiletries, and your Bible. We also need you to fill out a permission slip that will be good for all activities through the end of the year.  Sign up deadline is April 14th.

Register Now

Date: Sunday, February 21
Time: 10:45 AM
Location: SEC gym

Come experience Brock Gill and the Shock and Rock Tour.
Never before seen…..You won’t want to miss it!!

For a map and directions to the First Baptist Church of Springdale, click here.

Dates: June 16-19
Location: Sky Ranch in Cave Springs
Cost:$250 before May 3

We’re going back to Sky Ranch Cave Springs! Everyone had such a great time last year, we’re headed back again this year. Remember, Kid’s Kamp is for children who have completed grade 3-5, and registration is not complete until you have turned in the 2010 Permission Slip and the Sky Ranch Release. Both are available in Kidz Inc and PH Kids’ offices, or may be downloaded. You may also sign up for horseback riding and paintballing for an additional fee of $15 each (must be 9 years old to horseback, 10 years old to paintball). Don’t miss Kids Kamp this year! It’s going to be so much fun. Payment Plans are available, just email Sue and ask for details. Deadline to register is May 23.

Register Now

On Sunday February 14 we are celebrating “I Love My Church” day. It’s a day for us to remember all the incredible things God has done in our church. A day to celebrate God’s faithfulness to us as believers. It is also a day that we will emphasize the adult ministry of our church. We will be having breakfast in all of our adult connection groups and each group will be striving to bring new people. If you are not connected to a connection group this would be a great day to reconnect. You can find a group by clicking HERE. We would love to see many new people join us on this day. Make a commitment to join us on February 14 and bring somebody new with you to worship and connection groups.

Walt is a humorous and motivating speaker. Nationwide he encourages his audiences with life-altering concepts while making them laugh in the process.

Being an avid sports enthusiast, Wiley served as Chaplain to the Atlanta Braves for 14 years. He graduated from Asbury College and Northeastern Bible College, where he also taught and coached.

Wiley leads the Winning With Encouragement organization and is teaching their most recent seminars: The Look of the Leader and The Encouragement Seminar.

Walt and his wife, Patty teach a marriage seminar entitled, How to Get Your Mate to be Just Like You… So You’ll Both Be Perfect. Walt and Patty have been married 35 years and have two grown sons, Bart and Brett.

Register Now

Even Now: Sound The Alarm from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: March 12
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Kidz Theatre

Come one, come all to the coolest show on earth! Come experience the Big Top as you would in years past. We’ll have food, fun and lively entertainment. The cost is $30 for dad and first daughter, plus $15 for each additional daughter. Available for all girls in 1st – 5th grade. Space is limited, so register now!

Register Now

WOODSTOCK, Ga. (BP)–We live in unprecedented times, with Christian and moral foundations rapidly crumbling before our very eyes. Meanwhile, many Christian churches, which should be a mighty force ready to spread salt and light in this dark world, are unprepared. God’s glory has been set aside while other things have overshadowed our first love.

The reputation of SBC churches is akin to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2:1-5. Jesus commended them for doing many good things, but called them to repent. Baptism rates are down, divorce rates are up and too many families are falling apart. We’re busy doing church but we have lost our connection to the power of Almighty God.

Because of this, we established a Great Commission Resurgence Task Force at the Southern Baptist Convention in June. The chairman, Ronnie Floyd, has called for 5,000 prayer partners to join www.Pray4GCR.com in praying for wisdom for this group. I praise God for the hearty response and the prayers.
Since God requires humility, confession and complete dependence on Him before granting healing to a land (2 Chron. 7:14), it is time to ramp it up a notch by inviting all SBC churches to set aside Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, to pray specifically for our denomination.

I’m making this call in response to a request I received from Richard Harris, interim president of the North American Mission Board, and Frank Page, NAMB’s vice president for evangelism, who heartily endorsed an idea submitted by NAMB prayer coordinator Elaine Helms on behalf of our SBC national agency and state convention prayer leaders.

At their annual “PrayerLink” meeting held in Vancouver, Canada, in October, our prayer leadership spent much time in prayer and felt led to ask all Southern Baptists to pray for the Southern Baptist Convention without delay.

“In light of the moral decline across North America, the meetings of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, God’s Plan for Sharing and the 2010 campaign ‘Across North America’ and search committees for three of the entities — the Executive Committee, the International Mission Board and the North American Mission Board,” the group said, “if not now, when?”

We are asking you, pastors, to not only incorporate a season of prayer for our denomination into your regular worship services on Sunday, Jan. 31, but to make provision and give direction for a full day of prayer focus. The prayer leaders are prepared to provide free downloadable resources to assist in a meaningful day of seeking God on His terms. Some of the suggested things to pray for include:

– A spirit of repentance to fall on our churches corporately and personally for individuals, and for genuine revival of first love for Jesus. (See Matt. 4:17; Rev. 2:4.)

– A great spiritual awakening across our land so that the lost will be drawn to a personal relationship with Jesus. (See John 6:44; Rom. 1:19; 2 Cor. 2:14.)

– A sweet spirit of reconciliation among any Southern Baptists who are at odds with each other, or other works of God. Love for one another in the body of Christ to grow and blossom. (See Prov. 28:13; 1 Cor. 12:25-27; John 13:34-35.)

– Wisdom for the members of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force as they prepare their report in February. (See Jer. 33:3; James 1:5.)

– Guidance for the search committees for presidents of the Executive Committee, the International Mission Board, and the North American Mission Board. (See Prov. 3:5-6, 13, 15:22, 27:17; Acts 1:21-26.)

More ideas will be shared and we look forward to response and suggestions from you. This is a time to consecrate ourselves and be ready for what God may want to do among us. “Then Joshua said to the people, ‘Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.’” (Joshua 3:5)
–30–
Johnny Hunt is pastor of First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Ga., and president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

The Northwest Arkansas Men’s Conference is excited to be partnering with Joe White, Rick Rigsby, and Men at the Cross for the 2010 NWA Men’s Conference. MATC is a revolution that seeks to answer the call of the great commission in America and the world by equipping and empowering every committed believer to “Love a man to Jesus until he’s ready to love another man to Jesus.”

Click here for more info and to register online.

Even Now: Wake Up! from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

As a result of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that impacted Haiti on Tuesday, there is an overwhelming and ongoing need and we can help. If you are interested in helping the people of Haiti you can give by using the envelopes provided in our worship centers or you can give online by clicking here. Please mark your envelope “Disaster Relief.”

These gifts will go to help provide medical and food supplies for the victims in Haiti. We will partner with Baptist Global Response (BGR) and our direct Haiti Mission relationships. BGR is our global Southern Baptist Relief and Development organization that connects people in need with people who care.

For more information regarding BGR go to www.sbc.net.

Solemn Assembly from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Upward is a first-class sports experience that emphasizes healthy competition, sportsmanship, skills building and fun versus the “win-at-all-costs” mentality found in many children sports leagues.  It’s available to boys and girls, K5 through 3rd grade.

Mandatory evaluations are in the SEC Gym on March 1st, 2nd, or 4th from 6:00-8:00 PM.  Practices begin April 26th.  We would love to have you on our team!  For more information contact Ashley Patterson.

Preparing For The Journey from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: January 10
Location: CPH
Time: 6:00 PM

This will be an important and vital time of worship and prayer for our church as we continue our 21 day Journey with God.

Start date: January 13th
Location: the Chapel
Time:6:45 PM
Led by Charlie Foster

No One is Beyond the Reach of a Loving God

Have you been Captured by Grace? Perhaps you were when you were saved, but have struggled to live the kind of Christian life you believe is possible. It may be that a deeper understanding of God’s grace is what you need. May you find it in this 12 week Wednesday night study of God’s Word of grace to you.

For more information contact Charlie at charlief@fbcs.net

Dates: June 20-26
Location: Orange Beach Alabama
Cost: $375 until April 18th
Speakers: Ken Freeman & Kacy Benson

Camp 24/7 at the Beach is going to be awesome this summer.  Available to anyone, grades 6th-12th.  Come have fun in the sun and worship with the Nick Thurmond Band!!  We will leave from the 24/7 building at 6:00 PM.  Deadline to sign up is May 9th.  For more information contact Julie Birchfield.

Register Now

Reaping And Sowing In 2010 from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Click here to download the entire January 2010 edition of RealLife.

When Shawn Smith went to a Student Pastors’ conference in April of 2001, he had no idea God was about to change his life forever.

“One morning I read Psalm 84 where it says, ‘blessed is the man…who sets his heart on pilgrimage.’ For me, that was a clarion call that I needed to see God and His presence in a fresh way in my life.” Shawn knew God was calling him to a 40-day fast.

But it was a big step for Shawn. The longest he’d ever fasted was seven days. Shawn had watched his wife, Tracey, be transformed on a previous 40-day fast she embarked upon. Although he was still reluctant to go on the journey himself, he was so desperate to see a new work of God in his life that he was determined to “go there or die trying.” Less than one week after God’s call, Shawn began his 40-day journey of fasting and prayer.

Shawn didn’t really know what he expected God to do during his fast. He knew he wanted to draw closer to the Lord, but really didn’t have any idea how God would reveal himself. “I was so desperate; I didn’t have any big dreams of what God would do. I just thought, if I make it out alive, bless God. And if I don’t, bless Him then, too.” As he began his fast, Shawn made a list of 15 things he was praying about. Some were for his family, but most were about his desire for personal revival.

Tracey took the journey along with Shawn, not only as a spouse, but a prayer warrior. Tracey took the first ten days to prepare herself physically and spiritually to be an intercessor, then joined Shawn on his fast. She used their son’s afternoon naptime and mealtimes for prayer and study of God’s Word. Shawn had shared a few things he was praying about with her, but mostly she interceded on Shawn’s behalf.

The initial hunger was difficult. At the time, Shawn was serving at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. As a Student Pastor, Shawn was always around food when he was with students. But he came to realize that without the distraction of worrying about his own physical need, he was able to be more focused on the people he was with. He began to understand that “mealtime should be about connecting with people, not stuffing your face. I came to realize how dependent I had become on food and how small my prayer life was. The longer I fasted, the more I wanted God and the less I wanted physical nourishment.”

Satan had plans to derail and discourage Shawn. There were a lot of strange spiritual attacks during his fasting journey. “One night, our home computer crashed. I lost four years’ worth of sermons. Gone. It was like Satan was saying, ‘I’ll show you.’ But I knew I was more spiritually aware at that time, and also knew God would bring me through it.”

During his daily Bible reading, Shawn found another passage that helped him understand why God had called him to fast. Psalm 143:11 says, “For the sake of Your name, O LORD, revive me in Your righteousness, bring my soul out of trouble.” “I realized that my personal revival wasn’t for my good. It was for God’s glory. I desperately wanted my own life to be changed, but realized it would only happen if God got the glory.”

Shawn made no public announcement of his fast and privately told very few. About halfway through the fast, he was sitting on the stage after a Wednesday night student worship service. He was weak and wasn’t feeling well. One of the students asked him if he was sick. It was then that Shawn realized he was broken not only spiritually, but physically.

Due to a recent check-up at the doctor, Shawn knew he was not in good health. He was almost a hundred pounds overweight and knew that if he didn’t make changes to his lifestyle, his health would continue to decline. God revealed more to him during his journey. “When I’d finished my fast, I hadn’t lost a lot of weight, maybe 30 pounds. But I felt so convicted about my life and my physical fitness that I began to walk, then run and work out. I had always been an athlete, but had not taken care of my body.” Ultimately, Shawn believes the things God showed him during those 40 days saved his life. But he is quick to point out that fasting is not a weight-loss program. “This is not ‘The Biggest Loser.’ It’s not a contest. You should check with your doctor, but be prepared because not all doctors believe in fasting, especially extended fasts.”

And not all Christians do, either. Once word of Shawn’s fast became public knowledge, he was surprised to receive negative feedback from several people. By that time, Psalm 143 was ringing in his ears and Shawn knew the journey was about God’s glory, not his. It didn’t really matter to him what others thought.

Breaking his fast, Shawn felt emotionally drained and recharged at the same time. “I went to Texas Land and Cattle and ate a dry baked potato and a cracker. It was weird. But I was filled with anticipation about what God would do next.” That same weekend, Shawn, Tracey, and their son Kyle were involved in a car accident. Sorting through the aftermath was challenging, yet God used it for His ultimate good. And that’s what Shawn believes life is about. God’s glory.

Shawn ended his fast a different man. Tracey says, “I cannot emphasize or share enough about how mentally, emotionally, and spiritually different he was after the fast. This was truly my biggest challenge because he was a different person completely. There was an intensity and passion that was born out of that time that remains today.”

Regarding fasting with others, Tracy also offers, “Do not take lightly the opportunity to intercede and participate with someone in a fast. I call this fast “our” journey because God used it in both of our lives. I learned the discipline of praying under and for my given authority, and as a result continue to reap the benefit of the answers we prayed for during the fast. Do not underestimate the lasting answers from such a short period of time.”

The longest fast Shawn has done since that time is seven days. “Remembering the power of it makes you want to do it again. But it’s important to understand that it’s not what you’re fasting from, it’s about what you’re fasting for. It’s not about the absence of food. It’s about pursuing God so intently that you are willing to draw away from your normal life and be with Him. There is incredible spiritual insight and power that comes with prayer and fasting. The days I spent on my first extended fast have forever shaped my life.”

Click here to download the entire January 2010 edition of RealLife.

FBCS Banner Lords Supper from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

A Baby Changes Everything from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Vision Service Testimonies from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: February 19-20
Time: Friday, 7 PM – 9 PM, Saturday 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: The Church at Pinnacle Hills Gatheria

We invite you to experience a world-class, high-energy event that will allow you to see beyond today and seize your future. This conference is offered to students in grades 6th-12th and the cost is $35.  The speakers are Brent Crowe and David Nasser. You will be challenged and stretched to reach and exceed your potential with interactive, dynamic speakers, great bands, and real-world leadership systems.

Register Now

Date: January 25
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Kidz Theatre
Cost: $5.00

This night is for mothers of daughters ages preschool – High School. The challenge of raising pure daughters in this sex-crazed culture can be overwhelming. We will have a round table gathering where today’s moms talk about what’s really going on in their daughters lives and the importance of raising Godly young women who will impact this world for Jesus Christ. It will be a great opportunity to open up with other mothers and learn and grow from their advice and experiences, as well as share some of your own. This panel discussion will be led by Gina Franzke.

Topic: “Raising Pure Daughters in a Sex Crazed Culture”

Register Here

Date: January 30th, 2010
Time: 8:00 AM

Bundle up and come play some disc golf!  Our Ice Bowl tournament is a fundraising event to collect food for NWA Food Bank.  Event fee is $20, plus 5 canned food items or $5.  You are more than welcome to help out by just dropping off non-perishable items to be taken to the food bank.  Given the economy and the time of year, it would be such a blessing to our local families if you could help out by donating!  Whether you play or drop off food, I hope to see you January 30th!

Register Now

Free To Love God Through Everything from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Daniel 10 records the story of Daniel and a 21-day journey of prayer and fasting.

As we begin 2010,we are calling our church to a major time of prayer and fasting. We are asking you to set aside a 21-day period of time to get before the Lord to pray and fast.

We are setting aside the dates of January 3 (beginning at sundown) until sundown on Sunday, January 24, to go before the Lord as a church to pray and fast. You can fast at any level over these 21 days, and if you are unable to fast on these specific dates, please choose 21 days during the beginning of the year to do so.

Remember: fasting is the abstinence from food or any other thing with a spiritual goal or spiritual purpose in mind. You can choose to fast from food or something else during this period.

Prayer and fasting is God’s gateway to spiritual breakthrough. We want to see the floodgates of God’s power and spirit be upon us in 2010. Please join us at whatever level God leads you during this 21-day journey.

Register Now

Start Date: Tuesday, January 19
Time: 9:00-11:00 AM
Location: FBC Atriums and the Kidz Theatre
Led by:  Nancy Abernathy, Stefani Bryant, Carolyn Culpepper, Mona Elliott, Karen Eskew, JoAnna Miller, Jill Langham, Anna Mary Layman, Cheryl Lyall, and Regina Sewell

This is an in-depth 11 week Beth Moore study of the book Believing God.  Most of us believe in God.  The tough question is…Do you believe God?  Do you take Him at His Word, believing what He has told us, or do you just believe in His existence and the salvation He offers?  Do you believe Him even when you are going through a difficult time or situation. Based on Isaiah 43:10 Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith explores what it means to believe God.  Through studying the lives of Abraham, Moses, and others form Hebrews 11, you will be encouraged to deepen you own trust in God. Join us for this 11 week life-changing study.

Date: Sunday, December 13th
Time: 3:00 and 6:00 PM

A Christmas Worship Experience at the First Baptist Church of Springdale!  Children, students, and special characters will bring excitement to you and your family as they join forces with 150 voices and a 30-piece orchestra.  Two performance times makes this a great opportunity to invite others to enjoy the true spirit of this blessed season.  Free admission.

Chris Tomlin will be in concert on December 18 at 7:00 p.m.  It is the “Glory in the Highest” Tour with Louie Giglio and Christy Nockels at The Church at Pinnacle Hills.  This will be an amazing night with Christmas songs of worship.  Go to www.itickets.com.  This is a great opportunity to invite others to come hear the beautiful music and the powerful story of Christmas.

Time: 11:30 AM
Location: the Parlor

Monthly Senior Adult Luncheon which occurs every third Thursday.  The next luncheon will be held March 18.

Free To Live Securely from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Click here to download the entire December 2009 edition of RealLife.

In August of this year, a mission team of over twenty members from First Baptist Church of Springdale and The Church at Pinnacle Hills traveled to Malawi, Africa, with the primary objectives of planting a church, engaging in village evangelism, conducting a Vacation Bible School for village children, and taking part in the construction and launch of Esther’s House orphanage.

Most of the team spent approximately seven days in-country while members of the Kennedy and Copher families, along with cameraman D.J. Judd, remained for a total of fifty-four. No matter the length of their stay, all members of the 2009 Malawi mission trip came face to face with a people and a country in desperate need of hope.

Josh and Kristin Copher, members of The Church at Pinnacle Hills, have partnered with both church campuses through the Bigger Than Life Christian Foundation to launch and support Esther’s House. Josh shares a brief glimpse of the cruel realities of Malawi. “Life is very hard in most sub-Saharan countries, especially in Malawi. In this one small country, two thirds the size of Arkansas, there are now over one million orphans, most fending for themselves without food, shelter, or hope that anyone even cares. With the average life expectancy of 37, most children don’t get the opportunity to even know their parents….”

While living among the Malawian people for nearly two months, Josh and Kristin found themselves up close and personal with the statistics. “I know that we have all heard [of the hardships] before, and it’s easy to move the information to the back shelf of our minds. But when you witness it first-hand…. When you carry a widow dying of malaria to the hospital, pray with a single mother infected with HIV, or feed a starving child who has lost every person they know, it changes your life.”

The realties of the country quickly hit home with the Kennedy family as well during their stay in-country. Parents to four children of their own and sharing their three-bedroom Malawi home with a total of nine people, Zach and Erin Kennedy agreed to take in a two-month old, orphaned baby girl named Anna for three days and two nights a week.

Erin Kennedy told of Anna’s story. “When Anna’s mother went into labor, she was forced to walk ten miles alone to the regional hospital. She made it but just barely. She delivered Anna and a little boy, Anna’s twin’s brother, but the baby boy didn’t make it. Anna’s mother needed a blood transfusion, but the policy of the local hospital requires that someone from the family must first donate blood before blood from the reserve can be given. Because Anna’s mother had no one to donate for her, she couldn’t receive the transfusion and died. A completely needless death. But somehow, Baby Anna survived.”

For children like Anna, Esther’s House provides security and stability that, otherwise, is simply not available. Josh Copher explains, “The vision for Esther’s House is to share Christ’s love by creating a comprehensive model that addresses the spiritual and developmental needs of the village and engages the community to help lift themselves out of their current circumstances. Many people hear of Esther’s House and think it’s just an orphanage. It’s much more than that. Esther’s House is a platform for ministry and sustainable development in the country of Malawi….” And while the purpose of Esther’s House reaches “far beyond the scope of caring for the kids within its walls,” to five-year-old twins, Isaac and Precious, Esther’s House is simply home.

Zach Kennedy explained how the twins had lost both parents to malaria and had been living in a nearby village, bouncing from home to home. The boys were finally taken in by their grandmother, but because she was already caring for six other orphaned children, she did not have the means to properly care for the twins. As a result, the two boys were placed at Esther’s House. Erin Kennedy remembers that when she first met Isaac and Precious, they were extremely cautious of people. Erin recalls, “We used my children as examples and literally had to teach them how to give hugs and be hugged. At first, they weren’t so sure about it, but not long after, they would come running up to us with arms open wide.”

Zach remembers how the mission team members did their best to interact with the twins, though the language barrier made it difficult. “Some of the men got creative,” Zach said. “They came up with other ways to show the boys that they cared.” Mission team member, Roland Weber, made the boys a beanbag toss game and also supplied them with matchbox cars. Team member, Sammy Kirkendall, then fashioned and painted a homemade ramp made from scrap plywood. “No other kids in the village had toys like that,” Zach explains. “But very few children in Malawi also receive the quality treatment and care Esther’s House provides. Esther’s House children just have a better shot at life.”

Josh Copher adds, “To me, Esther’s House is a perfect example of what “church” is all about. We are not called just to preach the good news. We are commanded to go and be the good news. The Bible tells us that if we claim to live in Him, we are to walk as He did. It’s not about building buildings or about elevating our work in this impoverished country. It’s not about ‘fixing’ people or their culture. It’s about pouring ourselves into selfless acts of love and compassion as He did. It’s about meeting physical and spiritual needs as He did and sharing the hope and good news that we all have to look forward to.”

But one million orphans? Is it even possible to make a difference in the midst of such a monumental crisis?

Zach answers, “If you focus on the millions, you’ll be paralyzed with inaction. But when you look into the eyes of one, you begin to believe you can do something to make a difference. You hear the ‘dollar a day’ statistic all the time. In Malawi, most people earn a salary around that amount, if they are one of the 60% who are employed. Being in Malawi brings new perspective to the statistics. Numbers turn to faces. Faces become friends. I used to think that when Jesus said, ‘To whom much is given, much is required,’ He was talking about people like Bill Gates—the top 1% of the richest people in the world. Then, you move to Malawi, and suddenly it is hauntingly clear. We have been given much. And much is required of us.”

Josh Copher responds to the question, ‘Can people really make a difference in Malawi?’ with an unequivocal ‘yes!’ Josh adds, “Just ask any of the team members that have traveled to Malawi over the past eight years. Thousands have come to know Christ; many new churches have been planted…. Thousands of kids now have a meal to eat every day, the foundation for a scalable model is being implemented, Christian leaders are being developed, widows are being cared for, a reality television show is being produced, and our great God is being glorified! The impact on lives here and there continues to grow, and His favor is ever increasing.”

On the Kennedy family blog, Zach and Erin tell the story of meeting their night watchman in Malawi, a man named Crispen. The Kennedys explain, “Every night we would take him a meal and share the leftovers with his family. One night [we] realized that we had always expected him to eat outside and never invited him in. I told him to come in and pulled up a chair at our table. Shocked that we would invite him in to eat, he bowed down to his knees at our table to thank us. He thanked us repeatedly, and I began to wonder how long he would stay on his knees. The humility of Crispen challenged my pride and my understanding of caring for the poor. If charity only involves handouts, then humanity is only surviving and not being restored. We could have taken Crispen a meal each night and he would have continued to feel like he wasn’t worthy to sit at our table. Our work should be one of restoring humanity. Helping people understand their worth in God’s kingdom restores a piece of humanity stolen away by sin. It is these moments that we, too, are humbled to realize our worthlessness without a Savior.”

The truth is, we can make a difference in Malawi. Josh Copher makes clear, “The effort is not a single or even once a year commitment. It’s a year-round, ongoing ministry of this church that relies on our continued prayer and support. Future plans call for a medical training center, school, and guesthouse for teams to stay, all of which need leadership and funding. Our prayer is that the Lord will continue to impress on the hearts of our congregation the desire to personally get involved…. There are multiple opportunities available to plug in with Esther’s House at whatever level you are able, and one thing is certain, you will be blessed.”

In October, Zach Kennedy’s parents, Russell and Karen Kennedy, flew to Malawi to spend a week with their son and his family. While there, Russell and Karen spent time painting scripture from Psalm 139 in Esther’s House over the wall where the orphanage’s babies will sleep. It reads, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are your works, and that my soul knows well.” While the babies’ little lives may begin in heartbreak and tragedy, Esther’s House is a beam of hope in the darkness of despair, reminding the children and the world that they belong to a loving God. And as Erin Kennedy asks, “Who knows what the effect might be of making a difference for just one? You never know the impact just one of those little ones might have on their world.”

A reality television show documenting the Kennedy family’s two-month stay in Malawi is in the works and is set to air early next year. If you have questions about how to give to Esther’s House or want more information on our church’s mission opportunities, please contact our Global Missions Ministry by calling 479-756-7151.

Click here to download the entire December 2009 edition of RealLife.

Dr. Ronnie Floyd has completed his 7 week We Are Free series from Romans 8.  These powerful messages are now available at the Reach for Life Bookstore or at ronniefloyd.com.

This sermon series includes:

Free from Condemnation
Free from Ourselves
Free in the Holy Spirit
Free in Suffering
Free with Purpose
Free to live Securely
Free to love God through Everything

Date: December 3

This is the Senior Adult annual Branson, MO trip.  The trip will start after the Senior Adult monthly breakfast that morning in the Parlor, and they will return on December 5th.  This will be a beautiful, scenic trip that you won’t want to miss!

Date: Sunday, December 20
Time: 9:15 and 10:55 services

The Lord’s Supper signifies the meal shared together by the followers of Jesus. The bread is given to remember the body of Jesus that he gave up for them. The wine is shared to remember his blood that was poured out for the forgiveness of their sins. We honor Jesus by remembering the Lord’s supper and His promise that He is alive and with us through the Holy Spirit.  This service will be held at both campuses.

When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” Luke 22:14-20

Begins early January 2010

This “Journey” will guide men into an intimate, deeper, and more abiding relationship with Jesus Christ.  For more information, contact Jim Hyde or call 479.751.4523 ext. 4134.

Start Date: January 19
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Atrium 2
Led by: Cara McGrath

Words are powerful.  Especially words women speak to themselves.  What we think about will inevitably shape who we become.  Me, Myself and Lies: A Thought Closet Makeover is a 7 week video based bible study for women that will encourage them to replace their negative hidden thoughts and failures with positive truths from God’s Word.  This book is available in the Reach for Life bookstore.

Ongoing Wednesday night fitness class, from September 23-December 23
Time: 5:45 – 7:10 PM
Location: The Parlor
Led by Heather Gilbert

We are a Christ-centered weight loss and healthy living program that focuses on the four essentials of health and well-being: mind, emotions, body, and spirit.  We will begin the new First Place 4 Health “Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit” bible study.  The cost is $20 for the bible study and if you would like to purchase a FP4H Kit and the bible study, the cost  is $100.  Everyone is welcome! Come try us out!

Start Date: January 13
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Atrium 5
Led by: Andy Goode

A biblical look at doubt, assurance and those troubling passages with which so many people struggle.  This 8 week class is for those who desire to settle those issues of doubt and for those who desire to know how to help others deal with the struggle for assurance.

Register Now

Start Date: January 13
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Atrium 7
Led by Debbie Brooks

A Wednesday night 12 week course designed to help those recovering from divorce.

Register Now

Start Date: January 13
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Atrium 6
Led by: Matt Slaughter

This 7 week study of this wonderful book by Francis Chan will change the way you see God.  The God of the universe is crazy about you!  Sharing from his own life struggles and sacrifices, Chan issues a call for selfless Christ-like living.  This class will challenge you to let the love you have received from God impact your life like never before.  This book is available in the Reach for Life bookstore.

Register Now

Time: 7:00 PM
Location: SEC 64
Led by Brad Carr

Sunday night service for college students featuring a short time of worship and a time of fellowship with one another through connection groups.

Start Date: January 13
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Atrium 4
Led by: Austin Bivens

This 7 week study will utilize the challenging words of Francis Chan as it uncovers one of the potential shortcomings of many Christians- not embracing the person, work, and gifts of the Holy Spirit.  No Christian can be healthy or attain maturity without a life in and led by the Spirit.  This is a timely reminder and encouragement to get intimately acquainted with the Forgotten God.  This book is available in the Reach for Life bookstore.

Register Now

Start date: September 30th
Time:6:00 PM
Led by Pat Fries and Adam Coleman
Weekly Wednesday night Young Adult Bible Study that meets off-campus.

For more information contact Ryan at ryanb@fbcs.net

Below are some photos taken during our recent Christmas night of worship “Glory Revealed” at The Church at Pinnacle Hills. Over 2,000 people were in attendance on a cold rainy night, but hearts were moved towards Jesus Christ.

Photos by Brian Armas.

Date: Sunday, March 14th
Time: 10:45 AM
Led by: Robin Joseph

Kid Faith is a one time class for new believers or those asking questions about faith in Christ for kids through fifth grade.  It is recommended before baptism, but may also be attended afterward.  Kid Faith meets on the second Sunday of each month in the Kidz Inc Conference room during the late hour Connection Group.  Must pre-register.  Please plan on at least one parent staying for the class.

Register Now

Free With Purpose from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Date: Sunday, November 22
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: FBCS Atrium 3

If you feel God may be leading you to adoption or foster care, we want to help.  This Q&A session provides you the opportunity to learn from families that have already walked down that road before and ask them questions about the journey. Come prepared to ask questions, and we will do our best to provide the answers.

Childcare is provided for children up to fifth grade.

Register Now

Free In Suffering from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Ken and Amy Paraday, along with their children, Brittany and Casey, moved to Northwest Arkansas from a Chicago suburb in 2001. That same year, they joined First Baptist Church of Springdale as members and settled into their new life. Both Brittany and Casey were active in sports, and over the years, Ken volunteered to coach his children’s teams from time to time. But as far as volunteering in the church, the Paraday family steered clear of such commitments.

Read the whole article and view the entire November 2009 Real Life

Time: Sunday nights, 6:00
Location: Perry’s home
Led by Caleb Perry and Ross Kephart

For more information on this group, please contact Ryan Blackwell at ryanb@fbcs.net.

Free In The Holy Spirit from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 4
Led by Matt Slaughter

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 5
Led by Davin Hicks and Mark Milbrodt

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 2
Led by Matt Russell

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: N133
Led by Ryan Blackwell and Greg Banks

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 3
Led by Matt Dalmut and Lance Eads

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Friend Day with Tony Nolan from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 217
Led by Richard Cox

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 207
Led by Robert George

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 208
Led by Ian Hewitt

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 6
Led by Jason Allen and Mike Yates

Late Hour Married Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Atrium 1
Led by Greg Jones

Late Hour Young Married Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 201
Led by Vic Rimmer and Todd Pleggenkuhle

Late Hour Young Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 203
Led by Jim Bryant

Late Hour Adults Connection Group

Free From Ourselves from Ronnie Floyd on Vimeo.

Time: Sunday nights, 6:00 PM
Location:  home group
Led by Daryl Yerton

For more information on this group, please contact Ryan Blackwell at ryanb@fbcs.net.

Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 6:30-9:00 PM
Location: the Riggins barn in Tonitown

Come fellowship with our Young Adult ministry as we learn to square dance, ride the mechanical bull, and eat some great BBQ.  There will also be a best dressed competition, so go all out in your western wear.  This will be such a fun night-  don’t miss out!!

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 204
Led by Rob Tanksley

Late Hour Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 202
Led by Joel Sappenfield

Late Hour Adults Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: FG 166
Led by Donnie Smith

Late Hour Adults Connection Group

You won’t want to miss Sunday October 25th as we celebrate Friend Day with dynamic speaker Tony Nolan who will preach at each of our worship services. This will be the highlight of the myfaves challenge in which every member was asked to love, care for, pray for, and invite 5 people to attend Worship and Connection Group. We look forward to seeing you and your FAVE5 there!

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 214 & 216
Led by Shirley Karr and Mark Parmer

Late Hour Median Adults Connetion Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Faith 248
Led by Lynn Claypool, John Gardner, and Kelly Cartwright

Late Hour Connection Group for Parents and Children

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Faith 246
Led by Mary McCully and Norma Patterson

Late Hour Median Adult Connection Group for Women

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Faith 247
Led by Dawn Barnes

Late Hour Median Adults Connection Group for Women

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 215
Led by Annette Coor

Late hour 40+ Singles Connection Group

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 212
Led by Joe Elkins

Late hour Connection Group for Single Adults

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Hope 206
Led by Terry Gunnels

Late Hour Median Adults Connection Group

Date: November 29, 2009
Location: FBCS worship center

Dedication is not baptism.  It is not a sacrament of any kind. It does not impart salvation on the child.  Dedication is the parent’s commitment to God to raise the child in His ways.  The First Baptist Church of Springdale dedicates children because in Luke 2:22-25 we read that as a baby, his parents dedicated Jesus.  In Mark 10:16 we see Jesus bestowing blessings on the children.  The Dedication ceremony is a time to publicly make that commitment to pray for the child, love the child and guide the child toward a personal relationship with Christ.

Register by contacting Suzanne at 725-4154 or suzanneh@fbcs.net.  Photo deadline is Sunday, November 15.  There will be a reception for the families participating in Parent Child dedication immediately afterwards in the Parlor.

“I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.” And he worshiped the LORD there. - 1 Samuel 1:27-28

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. - Proverbs 22:6

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Faith 242
Led by Ray Stewart

Late Hour Median Adult Connection Group

In 2007, Jill Jones, a twenty-year-old college student who had been visiting First Baptist Church of Springdale finally “got the nerve” to attend a Connection Group. After walking into the room of mostly strangers, Jill was approached by a young woman who welcomed her to the group with a smile. The young woman’s name was Julie Story, a fellow student and active church member. Jill remembers, “Julie was the first person to come and say ‘hi’ to me. That is a huge deal when you’re a guest.”

Read the whole article and view the entire October 2009 Real Life

Time: 10:55 AM
Location: Faith 240
Led by Larry Chapman

Late Hour Median Adults Connection Group