en Involved With People http://www.fbcportage.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54&article_id=243 WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ANGEL FOOD? Answers - in a quick click. Go to the Menu page to order or link to our on-line ordering. Family Bible Church Angel Food Information Line: 219-841-9864 Church Line: 219-763-3015 To order on line, get recipies and see more information about Angel Food Ministries, go to their website at angelfoodministries.com. Family Bible Church meets at Portage High School in the West Auditorium. Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 am; Bible Studies for all ages at 11am; Our service is casual and refreshing. Check us out for yourself! Fri, 5 Mar 2010 10:13:29 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=244 MARCH DISTRIBUTION DATE: Saturday, MARCH 27th from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. at the Family Bible Church office, 3190 Lancer Street, Suite A, Portage, IN 46368 - (219) 763-7413MARCH ORDERS MUST BE IN BY MARCH 13, 2010 BEFORE 10:30 A.M. Current Angel Food Menu/Order Form - Link to Menu/Order Form or use our new ordering on-line capabilities. Answers to Frequently Asked QuestionsFamily Bible Church meets at Portage High School in the West Auditorium. Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 am; Bible Studies for all ages at 11am; Our service is casual and refreshing. Check us out for yourself! Fri, 5 Mar 2010 10:12:47 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=63 Family Bible Church is a host site for Angel Food Ministries. This wonderful "Food Ministry With a Servant's Heart" is an excellent opportunity to save money on your monthly grocery bills. Distribution dates and times as well as answers to questions you may have can be viewed on our Angel Food pages: Angel Food Menu and Angel Food Questions. Use our on-line ordering capabilities. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 10:12:21 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=245 Join us in praying click here for more information regarding the Prayer Ministry of Family Bible Church. As well as praying for each other and especially our pastors with the PIT CREW initiative. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:20:19 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=6 To access a specific ministry page please click on the red underlined name of the ministry. To contact the chair, coordinator or director of a specific ministry please click on the black underlined contact information. Administrative Leadership Team - Contact ALT ChairAdult Ministries Commission - Contact AMC Chair Men's Ministry - Contact Men's Ministry Director Prayer Ministry - Contact Prayer Ministry CoordinatorSmall Groups - Contact Small Group DirectorWelcome Ministry - Contact Welcome Ministry DirectorWomen's Ministry - Contact Women's Ministry Director Children and Youth Commission - Contact CYC Chair Construction Zone - Contact CZ Coordinator Early Childhood Ministries - Contact ECM Coordinator Wee Worship - Contact Wee Worship Coordinator Outreach Ministries Commission - Contact OMC Chair Benevolence Ministry - Please call the office Angel Food - Contact Angel Food Coordinator - About Angel Food Ministries Librarian - Contact our Librarian Worship Commission - Contact Worship Commission Chair Christian Drama Ministry - Contact CDM Coordinator Fri, 9 Oct 2009 15:46:27 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=42 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=42&article_id=133 Welcome to the Prayer Ministry of Family Bible Church! We are a praying church and firmly believe that "...where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20 (NIV) Our Prayer Ministry Mission is "to encourage and equip the people of FBC to pray biblically, faithfully, individually and corporately that we may know God intimately and glorify Him as He empowers us for daily life and ministry." James 5:16 exhorts us: "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (NIV) A vital area of our prayer ministry is the PIT (Personal Intercessory Team) CREW. It's much more exciting than car racing and has an eternal impact! To learn more about the PIT CREW, click here. Don't delay. This "offer" ends October 31, 2009! Fri, 9 Oct 2009 15:26:31 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=1 At Family Bible Church our worship services include Christian music and singing, live dramas and practical video vignettes, which are just another part of what makes our church a special place! Our services reflect our belief that all areas of worship should nurture our affections for God and a passion for His glory that are expressed personally and corporately in our obedient, and adoring walk and response to Him. Our pastor presents basic biblical truths in a way that's relevant to today and that encourages you to develop a closer relationship with Jesus Christ." Service Time: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. CHECK OUT PASTOR DAVID'S BLOG!!!!!!!!!!**********LINK TO PASTOR DAVID'S BLOG********** Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:15:37 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=240 Please remember to pray for the team as they travel, work and minister. Keep up with our short term mission team in Guatemala by logging on to their website. Just follow this link: http://www.encounterpoint.net/ 6-25-09 Update on Rick R.: Rick was bitten by some type of yellow fly and developed swelling on parts of both hands. He went to the clinic and received treatment. He decided to take it easy and did not return to the job site yesterday. Please pray that the medicine continues to work and that there will be no long-term effects because of the bite(s). Thank you for praying! 6-24-09 PRAYER REQUEST:Rick R. one of the members of our team believes he was bit by something yesterday and has experienced swelling. He may have to go to a clinic today for treatment. Please pray for Rick's health and for the health and safety of the other team members over the next couple days. They will be returning to the States on Saturday. Thank you. 1ST UPDATE FROM THE TEAM - Via Emily McGrath 6-23-09 Hello from Guatemala! Things have been running fairly smoothly so far on this trip and we've seen God's hand in EVERYTHING! Today was the first day that we spent in the village! We left at 7 A.M. from El Faro and took our hour long boat ride to our destination. The sight we took in was BEAUTIFUL and we were in awe of the majesty of God's creation. When we arrived in the village it was very humbling and quite an adventurous experience. We were greeted by some men from the community and they helped us carry our things to the school and the church. The men headed straight over to the church to work on the roof and the women took over the school. Lee took MANY pictures to show you all of what we did there. Rachel and Dawn assisted the dentists. I tried, but nearly passed out due to the heat (Though I think that the main reason was being a little too close helping a dentist working on people's teeth who hadn't ever seen a dentist!). There were many patients that showed up. The women did a fantastic job and were very helpful to the dentists as they worked. Tomorrow we expect the same of them, working for the glory of Christ. Meanwhile, Az'a, Jayne, Jill, Cheryl, and I entertained the kids. There were over 40 (We lost count)! When we entered the school building with the kids, we crossed paths with a scorpion! The kids directed us away and one of the boys PICKED IT UP and took it outside. It was very exciting! We started off coloring with them and they LOVED that. When we began face painting, the kids were hesitant, but after a few bold children got theirs painted, Az'a and I got the opportunity to paint ALL the kid's faces and hands. They proudly showed them off to their friends. At this point, they had really opened up to us. Cheryl told them a bible story-the story of creation. It was well received and the kids retold it after learning it. We played games with them (Duck, duck, goose and hot potato) and then made some bracelets before they left. We are excited to see them again tomorrow. The guys had a learning/growing experience working side by side with the Guatemalan's. They tore down ant infested walls and worked on the roof in the super humid, hot weather. They did an awesome job and completed half of the roof! Now, here is the news you have all been waiting for. The bathrooms. They were...the most difficult thing we dealt with today. They were very humbling and made us miss our bathrooms at home. We were extremely thankful for what God has blessed us with once we saw the community's bathrooms. Most of us tried to avoid them as much as possible. But now we know better. After our hour long boat ride in the middle of the ocean, waves choppy, water everywhere...we will always be thankful for WHATEVER bathrooms we are given to use. After coming back from the village we had a restful few hours, catching up on sleep and getting re hydrated. Then we ate some VERY good food, provided by El Faro. We pray that we have been a blessing to those we've come in contact with us. We know well now that we are very blessed people. God has been so faithful and loving to us-He is merciful. We miss you all SO much and are excited to return, but also excited for the rest of our time here, to share God's love with the people in Guatemala. It's an awesome experience to be here and to have God work in us in a foreign land and serve His people who could not help themselves. We ask you to continue to pray for us, for strength as we work, that we will not tire so quickly and be able to serve Christ with all our energy. We also pray that the dentists will be given wisdom as they take care of patients and that those who are helping the dentists will not worry, but trust God in all that goes on. Pray that as the men work that they will be united -that they may be filled with love and joy as they work. Also, pray for energy for the women working with the children, that they will be able to keep up with the kids, showing Christ's love for them in the way that we love. Physically, pray that we will stay hydrated so we will not grow weak. Finally, pray that through all that we do, that Christ will be glorified in what we do and that we will continue to do it for HIM is is worthy, not our own pride. We love you all dearly and trust that God is doing beautiful things through you at home. Grace and Peace be with you, Emily McGrath Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:17:09 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=237 Living out our Statement of Faith The Human Condition 1. How is the fact that there are only 2 distinct genders an argument against atheistic evolution? Can it also be used as an argument for atheistic evolution? Explain your answer. 2. How can the fact that there are still monkeys in existence argue against atheistic evolution? According to evolutionary theory, if a monkey lived long enough would it turn into a human 3. If atoms, motion, time, and chance are arguably responsible for the evolution of man, it would then be also logical to shake a shoebox full of Timex parts in order to produce a Timex watch? Would a clock with hands be formed before a wristwatch? At what point in the evolutionary process would a digital stopwatch be formed? How logical is this theory to you? 4. The natural history museum in Vienna Austria had a display featuring the bust of an ape followed by several subsequent busts demonstrating the evolutionary process. Specifically they had feature-dominate ethnic groups including Chinese, African and then Anglo-Saxon. How is such belief a slippery slope - what danger is there in having this as part of your worldview or domestic or foreign policy 5. Family Bible Church believes God created Adam and Eve in His image. Much support comes from Genesis 1-2. Make 5 observations about Man and his origin from that text. 6. The Bible says Man is "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Ps.139:14). He is made in the image of God. (Gen.1:27). Did the Fall of Man affect his "imago Dei"? If so, how? 7. Read Romans 5:12-21 and answer the following questions: • Where did death come from? • What unique role did Adam serve in Mankind? • What contrast is Paul describing in this passage and how is it good news? 8. To pursue something good or better outside of God is "sin". Explain this. Support your answer with Scripture. 9. Family Bible Church believes "only through God's saving work in Jesus Christ can one be rescued (from sin & its penalty), reconciled (from sin's domain to Christ's domain of power); and renewed (from our inclination to sin). Match a verse(s) with each truth above. Romans 5:1,2 Colossians 1:20 2 Corinthians 3:18 1 Thess. 1:10 Ephesians 4:24 Philippians 3:21 Romans 8:9 wjm 20090201 Mon, 9 Feb 2009 07:54:30 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=238 Living Out Our Statement of Faith Jesus: The God Who Came Near 1. An acrostic used by the Roman Christians to refer to the Lord Jesus was Ixthus. This Greek word actually means ‘fish' and thus the fish symbol became synonymous of Christ. Each of the Greek letters was the first letter of a name or characteristic of the Lord Jesus. Find a Scripture passage that supports each name or characteristic. Jesus Christ God Son Savior 2. At Family Bible Church, we believe Scripture clearly teaches that Jesus is God. What evidence in the Scripture supports this? 3. According to John 1:1, Mark 2:10; John 9:33 Jesus did some very amazing deeds. How do his works argue for his divinity? 4. At the ascension of Christ, the Bible says He now sits at the ‘right hand of God, the Father'. Look up the following passages and explain some implications of his present position. Hebrews 8:1 Philippians 2:9 John 1:51 5. The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus came in the flesh. What is significant about this and what verses support this truth? 6. Look through some Gospel stories for examples that cite Jesus showing emotion or human limitations. 7. Look up Hebrews 2:14. Study the surrounding verses and explain why it is important that Jesus came in the flesh. 8. Read through this great Creed of the Church. Look up the following text and associate them with statements within the Creed. I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:( ) who, was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin, Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. ( ). * The third day He arose again from the dead. ( ) He ascended into Heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. ( ) I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrections of the body, and life everlasting. ( ) *Some include "He descended into Hell (1 Peter 3:19) Romans 12:5; 1 John 1:9; Hebrews 6:2, Genesis 1:1 and John 3:16, Luke 1:26-31; 23:14-25, 24:46-56, Luke 24:26-49, Luke 24:51; Luke 22:69; 1 Peter 4:6 wjm 20090208 Mon, 9 Feb 2009 07:54:06 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=236 Discussion Questions Living Out What We Believe...about the fact that God has spoken 1. What do you recall about what you first believed about the Bible? 2. Look up 2 Timothy 3:16 and commit it to memory. 3. Look up in a concordance the number of times the Bible uses the words: "Thus says the Lord" or "and "God spoke". Pick 5 of those passages and look up the circumstances in which they occurred. 4. Look up these passages about how God has ‘spoken' to us and explain the difference between ‘natural revelation' and ‘special revelation' Romans 1:18-20 Hebrews 1:2 John 1:1-14 5. Review these bullet points about the uniqueness of the Biblical text in comparison to all other ancient writings. Among those listed, what is most convincing to you of how unique this book is? • 40 different authors over a span of 1600 years (60 generations) • Authors from varied walks of life e.g. kings (David), foreign slave (Moses), teacher (Saul of Tarsus), doctor (Luke), commercial fisherman (Simon Peter), etc. • One common theme/thread without discrepancy • 3 different languages from entirely different cultures • Prophetic writings • Extent of translation compared to other books • Testimony of lives impacted via this book • Survival of this book even though outlawed on so many occasions and by so many different regimes • Influence on other literature, arts, commerce, etc • Bibliographic test- number of existent New Testament manuscripts = 24,633 far superior to any other ancient historical book 5. Look up in a bible encyclopedia about Bible transcription of the Hebrew text. How in fact did the scribes make copies and thus give assurance of the reliably transmission of the text? 6. One further proof of the inspiration and reliability of the Biblical text is the ‘profundity' of truths revealed in the text. The Bible claims to reveal "truth from God". Philosophically would we agree that Man is NOT the author nor prescriptor of truth; truth must come from outside of man's being. But man is one who ‘recognizes' truth, one who ‘accepts' or ‘rejects' truth. What biblical truths stand out to you as most profound and bolster your assurance of divine authorship? 7. Family Bible Church believes the Scripture teaches that it is to our own peril if we reject what God says. Using a concordance or other Bible tools, find 5 key passages that give this kind of warning. Mon, 9 Feb 2009 07:54:06 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14&article_id=5 An Elder at Family Bible Church serves as an overseer of the Church, its staff, its members and regular attenders; contributing to the spiritual health of the congregation by providing pastoral care, spiritual direction, discipline, and a model for life and ministry. Contact an Elder Thu, 9 Oct 2008 10:24:10 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=4 Senior PastorDavid McGrath (contact ) Worship PastorTony Yingst (contact ) Thu, 9 Oct 2008 10:23:05 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49&article_id=191 Doctrine: What does the Bible say about the Bible?RevelationInspirationIlluminationInterpretationCanonizationPreservation STATEMENT The Bible, consisting of the 39 books of the Old testament and the 27 books of the New Testament, is a complete and divine revelation. It is verbally and plenary inspired by the Holy Spirit without error in the original autographs and it is the authoritative rule for faith and practice. REVELATION In its most literal sense revelation means to reveal or uncover that which was previously unknown. However, when we speak of divine revelation we are speaking of God disclosing to man that which previously was unknown concerning God's person, purpose, and works. The Bible gives witness to two kinds of revelation; general and special. General revelation is found in nature and history, addressing the need of man to know God, and is available to all through the senses and the conscience. Through general revelation we can know certain attributes of God such as his power, glory, divinity, and benevolence. However, general revelation is limited in that although it is enough to leave man without excuse, it is insufficient to provide salvation. It is strictly intended to incite man to search for a more complete revelation. Also, it is obscured by the presence of evil in the world. General revelation is seen in nature, in history, and in the conscience of man. Psalm 8:1-3, 19:1, Romans 1:19, 13:1 By special revelation, we mean the acts of God that make known his self or His truth at a specific time to a specific people. However by giving this revelation at a specific time and to a specific people it is not necessarily limited to, or intended for, that time and that people. Special revelation is given in a variety of ways: in the form of miracles and prophecy, in the person of Jesus Christ, in the scriptures, and in personal experience. Exodus 2:4-5, I Kings 18:24, John 5:36, 20:30, Isaiah 43:28-45:7 cf. Ezra 1:1-4, Hebrews 1:1-3, Genesis 6:13, 7:1, 9:1 Miracles are unusual events accomplishing useful works, revealing the existence, power, presence, and concern of God, and are not a product of so called natural laws. Miracles fall under two different categories: In the first category, the laws of nature are intensified. ie. flood, some of the plagues, Samson's strength, etc. In the second category, the laws of nature are excluded. ie. Jesus' resurrection, water from a rock, multiplying loaves, water into wine etc. Miracles still happen today and are seen in answered prayer, personal experience, and regeneration. Prophecy is the giving forth of information resulting from a direct communication from God. The kinds of prophecy fall under two divisions; predictive and didactic. Predictive prophecy is a communication from God, spoken by a prophet revealing acts or events that will take place in the future. This usually did not contain sufficient information to be saved. Didactic prophecy is a communication from God spoken by a prophet, revealing instructions or teachings of God. This may contain sufficient information to save. The life of Jesus gives a threefold revelation from God. His life reveals God's existence, His nature, and His will. Through His life and teaching Jesus not only revealed enough to save if believed, He also revealed enough to condemn if rejected. The scriptures are an embodiment of all other kinds of revelation in that it records the knowledge of God and His dealings with mankind, including history, nature, miracles, prophecy, and personal experiences. Personal experience as a type of special revelation includes hearing audible voices like Samuel and John, having dreams, like Joseph and Solomon, having visions, like Daniel and Paul, and being spoken to by angels, like Joseph and Mary. PROOFS FOR A DIVINE REVELATION: There are substantial reasons to believe that we do indeed have a revelation from God. LOGICAL EVIDENCE It is possible. The power of God displayed in nature would indicate that if He desired to reveal himself, He could. It is probable. If God made man in His image, and typically the creation reflects the creator, and man by nature communicates, God would probably do so as well. It is necessary. Because man's knowledge is finite, and his sinfulness is evident, for man to know God, God must reveal Himself. CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE. It is attested to by its' unity. The Bible was written by over 40 different authors from different walks of life (kings, shepherds, tax collectors, fisherman etc.) compiled over a period of 1500 years on three different continents covering a variety of controversial subjects such as God, man, sin, salvation, and the future, yet it is progressive and consistent, pointing to the Lord Jesus and clearly revealing the way of salvation. It is attested by its' indestructability. The Bible is the most scrutinized and persecuted book in the history of man, yet the greater the efforts to destroy it, the more widely circulated it has become. It is attested by its' influence. The Bible has affected mankind in a way that no other piece of literature ever has. It has led to the highest results in all walks of life including, art, music, literature, architecture, as well as law and government. And it alone has changed the lives of individuals in such a way that no other book ever could. It is attested by its' prophecy. Approximately 20% of the Bible is predictive prophecy and much has already been fulfilled, including over 300 prophecies concerning the life ministry and death of Jesus. It is attested by its' scientific and historical accuracy. Although the Bible is not a science and history book, whenever it speaks concerning science or history it has found to be accurate. It is attested by its' claims. The Bible not only claims to be the Word of God, it claims to be the infallible Word of God. And if it can be trusted when it speaks on other topics it can be trusted concerning what it says about itself. Exodus 17:14, 1 Corinthians 14:37 INSPIRATION The process of recording divine revelation is called Inspiration. Inspiration is the work of the Holy Spirit in guiding human authors to record through their personalities, God's revelation without error in the words of the original manuscripts. 2 Peter 1:21, 2 Timothy 3:16, Acts 1:16, Hebrews 10:15-17, Luke 24:27,44, 2 Peter 3:15 Inspiration is verbal, meaning that the very words are inspired by God. Matthew 5:18, Luke 16:17 Inspiration is also plenary, indicating that all of scripture is inspired not just parts of scripture. John 10:35, 2 Timothy 3:16 Inspiration is valuable for two reasons. First, inspiration insures us that the scriptures are inerrant, meaning that they are without errors or mistakes. Second, inspiration guarantees us that the scriptures are infallible, or reliable and can be trusted fully. Psalm 19:7 ILLUMINATION Illumination is that work of the Holy Spirit whereby he enlightens the mind of the believer to understand the scriptures. Illumination is necessary because of the darkened understanding caused by sin. John 16:13, Ephesians 4:17-19 Because of Illumination, any believer, by depending on the Holy Spirit and using the proper rules of interpretation, can study the scriptures for his own growth and edification, and lead others to salvation in Christ. INTERPRETATION Scripture is not written to us, but it is written for us, that we might learn what God has revealed about himself and how he has dealt with man in the past. (1 Corinthians 10:11) God's Word has but one interpretation (2 Peter 1:20), yet in that one interpretation, there are many applications. To appreciate and apply all that has been recorded, we must have a proper method of interpreting God's word. If we are to understand the scriptures, we must understand them grammatically, contextually, and historically. We must interpret the scriptures grammatically. Grammar has to do with the relationship between words. To understand the Bible's meaning we must properly understand the relationship between the words. We must interpret the Bible literally unless the context suggests otherwise. In other words, is our interpretation sensible? If the plain sense makes good sense, seek no other sense. We must also interpret the scriptures contextually, to make sure that our interpretation is the same interpretation that the author had in mind when recording God's message. We must ask ourselves if our interpretation fits in with what has been said beforehand, and what is said afterward. As has been rightly said, "a text without a context is a pretext". Our interpretation of scripture should also be done historically. Because God has revealed himself progressively, at different times some people knew more about God than others. Therefore, we must interpret their actions in light of their knowledge of God, and the culture in which they lived. CANONIZATION Canon literally means a rule, a measuring stick or an instrument used to make a straight line. However in reference to the Bible, F.F. Bruce says "the canon of Scripture is the list of books that belong to theHoly Scriptures and that are reckoned as supremely authoritative for belief and practice." As we look at the Old and New Testament canon, there are two things which must be pointed out; first, the authority of scriptures lies in the writings because of their inspiration, and second, the church does not determine what books are authoritative, they only recognize their authority. The Old Testament The Old Testament's authority is recognized throughout the old Testament. Joshua 8:31,23:6, I Kings 2:3, II Kings 14:6, Ezra 7:6, Malachi 4:4 The Old Testament's authority is recognized by Jesus. Luke 24:44, Matthew 23:35 The Old Testament canon was recognized by Josephus in the 1st century B.C. where he lists all the books in the Old Testament. The Old Testament was confirmed at the council of Jamnia in A.D. 90 The New Testament. The test for Canonicity Is there evidence of Inspiration? Was it written by an Apostle or an associate? Is it genuine? (in agreement with all other scripture) Does it have the testimony and acceptance of the early church? The testimony of the Apostles Paul quotes Luke 10:7 as scripture I Timothy 5:18 Peter accepts the writings of Paul as scripture 2 Peter 3:16 The test of the Church councils In 397 A.D. The council of Carthage affirmed the New Testament canon to be the 27 books of the New Testament we have today. The early Church was in the best position to tell. The closing of the Canon Theological reason. We would expect that since God is perfect, He would give us as complete a revelation as we needed, and He intended. Logical reason. The early Church was in the best position to tell and they judged it complete in 397 A.D. PRESERVATION Preservation is the activity of God in which he keeps His recorded word accurate. Scriptural evidence. "The word of our God stands for ever." Isaiah 40:8 "Forever O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven" Psalm 119:89 "until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away from the law..." Matthew 5:18 "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." Mark 13:31 Textual evidence The dead sea scrolls prove the reliability of the Old Testament. Over 5000 manuscripts testify to the reliability of the New Testament with only one word in thousand being in question, and nowhere would the difference mean a change in any major doctrine. Translations To assure the purity of God's word when translated from the manuscripts into English, only those translations that bear the following characteristics should be relied upon. 1. Translated by a group of Scholars. 2. Translated by people committed to the innerancy of the Bible. 3. Translated literally, and accurately from the original language.4. Translated with clarity of communication and understandable in modern idio Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:58:10 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21&article_id=14 Family Bible Church's Women's Ministry is working to connect the women of FBC with each other and with others in the community. Through the expectation and desire to draw women to growth in Christ The Women's Ministry promotes:Bible studies with other women. Promoting events such as conferences, teas, Ladies' Nights Out, and retreats.The use of each women's individual gifts and passions within the body and for outreach. Tuesday Mornings: Bible Study Tuesday Evenings: Bible Study Sun, 16 Sep 2007 17:58:55 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23&article_id=21 Family Bible Church's Children and Youth Commission is in charge of:Early Childhood MinistriesTLC Nursery (ages 0-24 months)BiG Kid's (ages 2-4)Construction Zone (ages 5-5th grade)High Voltage (Junior and Senior High) It is the goal of the Children and Youth Commission to increase opportunities for children to hear from God's Word and apply that to their daily living. Mentors in the commission strive to nurture our children to grow in their faith and understanding of who God is and the role He plays in our lives. Our children are also encouraged to serve one another and the community. In essence the Children and Youth Commission encourages and enables our children, to become involved in other children's lives so that they too will know Christ personally, follow Him completely, and make Him known broadly. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 15:25:16 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=9 Need Free Bible software? The New English Translation NET with over 62,000 notes e-sword a complete Bible study program. Have a Bible Question? Ask the Bible Answer Man Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:34:57 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3&article_id=3 What we stand for At Family Bible Church, we hold firmly to certain guiding principles (or core values), regardless of how popular they may or may not be in the wider community. We value devotion to Jesus Christ, the One who provides us with:a means for wholeness and forgivenessa model for caring and livinga mandate for growth and maturityand a method for reconciliation and cooperation. We value accurate Bible preaching and teaching that is personally applied. We value participation in wholehearted worship of God. We value prayer as an essential means for connecting with God and experiencing his power. We value penetrating our doomed culture over preserving traditional methodologies. We value the multiplication of fruit-bearing disciples through the propagation of small groups and other disciple making churches. We value connecting with lost people as an intentional part of our lifestyle, our strategic programs, and our worldwide missions efforts. We value loving relationships where our people are mobilized for decentralized ministry through training and accountability according to their giftedness and passion. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:23:43 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=2 Welcome to Family Bible Church of Portage, Indiana. We are a casual and contemporary church committed to becoming Involved with People so that they will:Know Christ personally,Follow Him completely, andMake Him known broadly. I love it when people ask me, "Where is your church?" You see, we currently meet in the Portage High School West Auditorium. An even better question is, "When are you going to get a real church?" Of course, I know exactly what they mean. But sometimes I'm just ornery enough to use their question as an opportunity to teach them that:...the church is not a building... So I'll say to them, "We already have a church. Our church is everywhere. It's in the steel mills. It's in the schools. We meet at the high school, but our church is all over. It's in downtown Chicago, the stores and neighborhoods in and around the Portage community." Because that's where our people are. Then I tell them, our church is made up of people. ...people are the most important part of a church anyway... Then the light bulb comes on, "You're right. You've got something there." And they are right. We have something very special here - Family Bible Church is a great group of people dedicated to a common purpose and working hard toward the same objective. Those who call FBC their church home do not come to visit a building or to subscribe to a program. They come to take their place in a community of like-minded believers in Jesus Christ united to share the message of His grace with as many people as possible. "As you browse our website, I hope you will be encouraged to stop in and pay us a visit and perhaps become a part of Family Bible Church." Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:18:20 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=24 Family Bible Church is is a member of the Evangelical Free Church of America. EFCA Doctrine Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:17:26 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=27 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=27&article_id=36 Family Bible Church's Christian Drama Ministry offers an opportunity: "To worship God by presenting life themes through the prism of God's Word, using drama, dramatic reading, and interpretive movement." Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:12:15 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=34 The Worship Commission is comprised of individuals that are seeking to nurture the body's affections for God and passion for His glory that are expressed personally and corporately in our obedient, adoring walk and response to Him. Family Bible Church strives to practice "thriving" worship. Join us on Sundays as we lift our hearts and voices to our Audience of One. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:05:14 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=12 Outreach Ministries Commission Mission Statement: "To provide opportunities for our people to grow in their vision and commitment to make Jesus Christ known locally and throughout the world."Outreach Minisitries offers:Benevolence Ministry - offering short term financial assistance to those in our community with financial needs - by working with First Contact, Portage Township Trustee, Portage Food Pantry.Consistent financial cotnributions to the support of eight missionaries - local and worldwide. Short Term Mission opportunities.Family Bible Church members and attendees training and resources to accomplish the Family Bible Church Mission of becoming involved with people so they will know Christ personally, follow Him completely and make Him known broadly. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 13:38:16 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=41 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=41&article_id=134 It is the belief of Family Bible Church that community happens most effectively outside the walls of the auditorium on Sunday mornings, thus the creation of small groups. The benefits of a small group include; fellowship, Bible study, and the sharing of one another's joys, concerns, and burdens. We currently have a number of small groups meeting in individual homes on a regular weekly basis. Contact the Adult Ministries Chair for more information about a small group near you. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 13:16:07 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=20 MiGs - Men in God's Service Family Bible Church's Men's Ministry is working to connect the men of FBC with each other and with others in our community. The Men's Ministry promotes:Small group studies with other men.Events such as conferences and retreats.The monthly Men's Breakfast. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 13:12:27 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40&article_id=131 The Adult Ministries Commission's Mission Statement is: "To offer adults opportunities to know Christ personally, follow Him completely, and make Him known broadly." The ministries that fall under the direction of Adult Minisitries Commission areMen's MinistryWomen's MinistrySmall Group MinistryWelcome MinistryPrayer MinistrySecond Hour Classes Thu, 19 Apr 2007 13:01:24 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=43 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=43&article_id=135 Family Bible Church's Welcome Ministry's goal is to offer genunine Family Bible Church hospitality to all who walk through the doors on any given Sunday morning. The areas that fall under the umbrella of the Welcome Ministry include:Greeters at the Welcome Table or near the entrance to the auditorium.Pertinent information displayed on or around the Welcome Table.Welcome Ministry representation in the Welcome Class. Maintaining/distribution of the sermon cds available after the service. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 12:56:24 MST http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.fbcportage.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=126 Find out what the Bible says about a subject or topic. Fri, 6 Apr 2007 12:12:22 MST