The Waggoner Media Blog

A Christmas Invitation

2011-12-03T11:38:00.001-05:00

Your Christmas invitation is just two clicks away.Your first click is here

If you click on the picture above - you just get a bigger picture - sorry, so use the text link instead.Jesse

Christmas Messengers

2011-11-30T10:23:00.001-05:00

I have received birth announcements in various ways. There is the traditional baby-themed card in the mail. I have also been handed candy, lollipops and back in the day, cigars. In the modern era I have been informed of new arrivals by text message, twitter, facebook and instant message. No matter the method of delivery, at the time, it seemed normal. In the second chapter of Luke, we find the "birth announcement" of Jesus and the unusual method chosen has become an integral part of the Christmas story. A group of unnamed shepherds were the first outside the family to get the news. But why shepherds? Of all the means available to spread the news of this unique birth why would working-class wool chasers be the chosen ones? Why recruit these who were minding their own business until an angel dramatically interrupted an otherwise uneventful night to declare, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."

I think the answer to the “why the shepherds” question can be found not in what they witnessed by finding the “Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger” but by their response. Luke’s account tells us that, “Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child." Thus began a pattern that continues a couple of millennia later. The preferred method of spreading the message of God’s love for the world as expressed through Jesus is by ordinary people passing the news on to others in their lives. Here is where it gets personal. We do not need to be the spiritual elite to spread the message. It can be transmitted by casual contact. The reason that the birth of one first-century Jewish baby is noted around the world is because the message has gone viral.

In the midst of the hoopla of the holiday season people of faith should be reminded that our simple touches of care, our ordinary acts of kindness, and our normal conversations can be opportunities for others to be infected by the old, old story of Jesus and His love. Someone in your world is waiting to hear Jesus birth announcement.

Jesse Waggoner

Keep Shooting

2011-10-19T14:18:00.000-05:00

Some of you have seen the picture above - it is of our daughter Jessica and our granddaughter Kaelyn. They, along with our Son in law Eric, came to spend the weekend with us. A few days before their arrival, Jessica called and asked if I would mind taking some pictures. As many of you know, I love photography and it took only a fraction of a second to say yes. The picture above (you can click on it and see an even larger version) was the one that is now on the wall in my office. It is right beside me as I type this. I love it for many reasons, the contrast between one set of eyes open and one being closed is great, the fact that one face is looking at the camera while the other is in profile works, so does the contrast in skin tones, the way the hair falls -- I could go on and on... and of course the most important thing that makes it special are the two people who are in it.

But there is something else you should know. This image is one of 165 I took that day. Most will never be seen by anyone other than me and only 3 or 4 will make it to prints or will be posted online. Most of what I took that day are, in a word ..bad. The lighting is off in some, the focus is not crisp in others. I also have a new found appreciation for baby photographers. With an infant you just can’t say: "look at me and smile"and get the result you want. You have to time it just right and hope you hit the shutter release at the correct moment.

This fact that only through perseverance can the correct outcome be gained in photography serves a fitting metaphor for life. Most of our efforts don't succeed on the first try, many don't after the 100th. But there is reward in sticking to it, to keep giving effort , to perfecting one's skills. Most of the time victory comes to the one who refused to give up. So whatever it is we do, let's keep giving our best. The perfect moment may be close at hand.

Your Invitation

2011-10-01T15:40:00.001-05:00

Mt. Calvary is having a welcome reception for us Sunday evening at 6:30 - special music will be by Master Peace and I am so pleased that my dear friend Dr. Paul Reiter will be speaking. There will be light Hors D’Oeurves, cake & punch following, consider this your invitation.

Traveling?

2011-09-29T11:25:00.002-05:00

Where are you traveling? Maybe you have trip or two planned, or perhaps you are committed to just staying home. No matter your plans you are going to do some travelling, a lot of traveling. In fact you are on the move as you read this. Not so sure? Consider this; right now the earth is spinning on its axis, with you on it, at a speed of about 800 miles per hour. It doesn't feel like you are moving because everything around you, above you and under you is moving at the same speed and direction as you. If that is not enough movement consider this the earth travels around the sun at a speed of about 67,000 miles per hour! You are going somewhere, you have no choice.

Spiritually it is the same, you are always moving. You are either making progress in your walk with God or you are digressing. Even Jesus is described as making progress; “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men."(Luke 2:52) If he needed to make progress, we certainly do.

I hope you will join me in being committed to going in the right direction. You can insure this by being in the Word of God regularly – you also should be part of a church that teaches the Word in a way that touches life. These will help keep you between the lines as you navigate the road ahead.

Blessings,
Jesse

CalvaryWV.com

Number Four

2011-09-14T10:51:00.006-05:00

I have had the privilege of previously serving as a pastor of three churches: New Hope Bible Church in Bridgeport, West Virginia, Calvary Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Ohio and Associate Pastor at Bible Center Church in Charleston. As many of you know, I completed my ministry at Bible Center last September. In the mean time, I have completed my Doctorate Degree (I am contemplating starting work on a second Doctorate Degree before the year is out - not sure if I am brave or crazy) and then unexpectedly was requested to serve as interim pastor of Mount Calvary Baptist Church. It has been a joy to serve at Mt. Calvary with a fine staff and congregation. We have seen the Word of God do amazing things in the lives of many over these last months.

But one can only live in "interim" land for so long. There comes a time to move on and we have been preparing for the move for some months. During this time, we have interacted with a number of congregations around the country and have been blessed to learn of God's work in ways and places that were new to us. It has been a joy to meet with pastoral search committees that are composed of godly servants who are doing God's work in God's way. We are still praying for some of them to find the man God is calling to that particular work. That said, where are we going to land?

I told some folks recently that I feel like the guy who was searching around the world for a wife and ends up marrying the girl next door. So now we know - Sunday, September 18th, I will begin my fourth pastoral ministry as Senior Pastor of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, in Charleston, West Virginia. In the last eight months, Julie and I have grown to love this congregation. We have also learned to love this area even more. This call has been confirmed in many ways, not the least of which is seeing two growing services on Sunday mornings, as well as people being saved and baptized. God is at work and He is to be praised! There is much work that remains to be done but I am thankful that I get to work alongside other staff pastors, church board, and a congregation that are walking with Christ and have a passion to do God's will.

So I continue to do what I have done my entire adult life: preach God's Word and pastor God's people. I am a blessed man to get to do both

Are we in the Last Days?

2011-08-31T09:18:00.006-05:00

For those of us who live in on the East Coast last week's earthquake was the first one we have experienced in our lives - do you think it will be the last one? This and so many other world-events (storms, unrest in the Middle East, terrorism, financial instability etc.) lead many to ask questions such as: What does the future hold? Are we approaching or living in the last days? Is there hope? Is there an escape? Fortunately there are answers from the lips of Jesus and they are found in Matthew chapter 24. I will be leading a study through this portion of God's Word on Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. These messages will not be available online so if you want to be a part make plans to join us for this journey through the Last Days.

New Arrival

2011-08-05T14:26:00.004-05:00

Kaelyn Michelle McVey arrived on July 23, weighing in at 8lbs 3oz. Dad Eric and Mom Jessica are all doing well. Julie and yours truly are are still a bit in shock over being grandparents - but it is a shock that we greatly enjoy!

Proverbs 17:6 says, "Children's children are the crown of old men, And the glory of children is their father." I must admit that I like the "crown and glory" parts more than the "old men" part of that verse. But however it is said to reach this point in life is blessing of God. A testimony to His faithfulness and His grace to our entire family.

I would like to offer some profound insights to you in perfectly formed sentences that you would enjoy reading and feel compelled to send on to someone else but I guess this one of the few times that I am at a loss for words --but I know this God has surely been good to me.

Jesse

God wrote you a letter

2011-07-21T15:36:00.004-05:00

I heard a fellow preacher describe hearing an elderly African American preacher deliver something similar to the following so with a few imaginary flourishes I submit the following.

Over in the little book of First John chapter 2 and down in verse 13 the beloved Apostle says – “I write to you fathers” -- so a I say to all of you fathers, God wrote you a letter. It also says “I write to you young men” – so again I say to you young men – God wrote you a letter. It goes on to say “I write to you little children” – so little children, God wrote you a letter. So I can say to you church – God wrote you a letter.

God sat down at His desk of sovereignty, picked up His pen of omniscience and He wrote you a letter of divine revelation. His ideas are infallible its content is inerrant and its message is immutable. God wrote you a letter. He wrote your letter on paper watermarked with the tears of prophets, He wrote you letter with the indelible ink of His faithfulness, it is written in the script of His holiness it is punctuated with His graciousness and it signed by the blood of Jesus. God wrote you a letter. He placed your letter in an envelope of love, sealed by the kiss of His spirit postmarked by the apostles and delivered by the breath of Almighty God. Church – God wrote you a letter. My friend God wrote you a letter.

So I say to you beloved – you ought to read your mail.

25 things I learned from a walk in the forest

2011-07-12T14:00:00.005-05:00

I recently spent an afternoon hiking about 5 miles through one of our state parks. Here are some things you can learn from a walk in the forest.

1. God loves the color green
2. Trees are tall
3. People are not
4. You never see a tree grow
5. Walking face-first into a spider web is always startling
6. Forests have a different cast of birds than my backyard
7. Squirrels are better than any circus acrobat
8. I don’t like snakes
9. Poison Ivy is hard to see
10. Always take your camera
11. A camera cannot capture what the eye can see
12 Chipmunks are noisy
13. Forests soak up both water and sound
14. If a tree falls in the forest…it will always be across the hiking trail
15. I do not understand why people carve their initials into tree trunks
16. Sticks and stones may break my bones…so I try to avoid them
17. I need better hiking shoes
18. Air tastes different in the woods
19. Only God can make a tree it takes an idiot to produce litter
20. Trees are always heading upward…so should I
21. I don’t spend enough time in the forest
22. Forests are wonderful places
23. God makes amazing forests
24. Everything God makes is amazing
25. God is amazing

Blessings,
Jesse Waggoner

Wedding Bells

2011-06-24T13:27:00.003-05:00

Saturday June 18, 2011 our youngest son was married to Katie in Englewood, Florida. If you want to see more pictures just use the links below.

Julie and I and my parents flew down, which meant we did not get to visit with several friends on the return trip as we planned. But flying was easier on all of us. We were also pleased that a number of family and friends made the trip. Our whole gang stayed in Buchan's Landing Resort which is on Lemon Bay - a wonderful place for us to gather and celebrate. We watched dolphins swim by each morning, and I enjoyed taking pictures of the beauty and wildlife in the area. Julie was a wonderful host for those gathered - one morning she prepared breakfast for 27!

The wedding took place in the Green Street Church which was the first church in Englewood and is now operated by the historical society. It was lovely setting for a ceremony that honored the Lord as they made their commitment to each other.

I shared with those gathered at the rehearsal dinner that families are very stretchable - as proven by the fact that both of our families are enlarged by this marriage; Katie's family have warmly welcomed Brian and we are delighted that Katie has become part of the growing Waggoner clan. They will be living in Richmond Virginia where Brian will pursue his chosen career in law enforcement.

We also got in a little relaxation after the wedding, Julie and I enjoyed the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and colleting a few seashells along the way, not to mention taking some pictures of some outstanding sunsets! We are glad to be back in WV and looking forward to be worshipping with the folks at Mt. Calvary Baptist on Sunday.

Jesse

Wedding Photo Album

Florida Photo Album

Prison Stories

2011-05-19T12:02:00.003-05:00

Have you ever noticed how so many Bible stories take place in a prison? Think about Joseph in Egypt, Sampson, Jeremiah, Peter, Paul, Silas, the Apostle John, and John the Baptist come quickly to mind. This band of jail-house brothers are each part of the story God is trying to tell in the Bible and maybe He needed to get our attention in a particular way.

But why prison bars as a backdrop for the message God is trying to communicate? The metaphor of prison is one that jars our senses. It invades our minds with images of being helpless, hopeless and with little or no control. It touches the soul where the soul feels stuck and bound, where the only hope is on the outside as there are no useable resources for escape on the inside. It connects with the season in life where every day runs into the next and every day seems the same. Where there is little point but existing to do it all over and over again. One does not have to be literally in lock down to be acquainted with the prison syndrome. The addict knows about prison. So does the person who has been rejected and passed over. So does everyone who has ever hoped for more from life and not being able to see a way to get there. It is known by everyone who waits for word from an erring child or a wandering spouse. The feelings of confinement by a disability, injury or disease can also feel prison-like.

I have come to believe that it is for these that the prison stories are sprinkled throughout the pages of Scripture are special messages for you in those moments when you are the one in one kind of a prison or another, they are mini-dramas to help you know that life in prison is not the kind of life God intends but sometime it is only through the experience of being out of control that we really come to terms with what it means for Him to be in control.

For the next several weeks I am doing a study of a dozen or so of these prison stories and I want to invite you to either follow along or at least pick up your Bible and find your way to a prison story and in so doing you can find the kind of freedom that God desires for you to experience each day.

Blessing,
Jesse

The Family

2011-05-05T10:17:00.003-05:00

"Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. (Psalms 127:4)

When I became a father at the age of 22 Julie and I had no idea the adventure we were embarking on. Now after nearly 3 decades of marriage and years of raising children I am a blessed man. The raising of children, maintaining a marriage and growing a getting along are part of God's plan to make us all better. We, as I suppose all do, have had our struggles and pressure points. But this I know - it has all been worth it - every minute of it, the boring and long moments, the short and scary moments, those moments with more questions than answers, those moments of success and failure, those moments of pride and pain. Altogether they form a tapestry of God's grace and faithfulness. I really don't have anything more profound than that to say today but that is enough! To Him be the glory.

In case you are wondering the picture above was taken on Easter Sunday after we returned from a wonderful time of worship. Left to right (Back Row) Brandon and Heather Waggoner, Eric and Jessica McVey, (Front row) Katie Barnard, Brian Waggoner, my bride Julie and yours truly.

The picture below includes my parents Sam and Evelyn Waggoner and Brandon's dog Jaya just had to get into the picture. Click on the pictures to view a larger version.

Blessings,
Jesse

ings,

Life Update - Spring 2011

2011-04-15T14:36:00.003-05:00

I thought it is about time for a personal update, I will post some of my thoughts from the Word next time. I have been busy serving the good folks at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church as their Interim Senior Pastor. I have enjoyed being in the pulpit preaching three times a week. If you want to follow my preaching ministry you can use these links:

www.podcast.waggonermedia.com (Sunday Morning series)

www.podcast2.waggonermedia.com (Sunday evening messages)

I have been excited to be part of two new ministries through MCBC - the first is we have begun a second Sunday Morning service. It meets at 9 a.m. in our Connection Theater; the second service remains at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. I have also been busy putting together a new ministry to men. The Lord has provided a great core of men to get things off the ground and we are expecting the Lord to continue to bless this ministry. The teaching for the Man2Man group is being recorded and will be available later. I have been working on putting together a video set so that this teaching can be on video and audio. (The picture above is a test shot from the studio set-up).

Things with the family are face-paced these days. Brian is graduating in May and getting married to Katie in June. We will be making a trip to Florida for this great event. Brandon and Heather are going to Uganda for missions work for the month of July. Also in July Jessica and Eric are expecting a baby girl and Julie and will be grandparents at a shockingly young age :) Julie has remained busy with teaching piano and she volunteers at Thomas Memorial Hospital.

May of you have asked about my Doctorate program, well last Tuesday I was informed that my Dissertation has been accepted and this means all work is completed for me to be awarded a Doctorate Degree in Biblical Preaching. Not sure when I will have a diploma in hand but I am glad to have this completed. If you want to take a look at my work you can download a eBook copy of it using this link:

www.waggonermedia.com/archive

I want to conclude by thanking all of your for your kindness and love you have shown to all of us over these last few months.

Blessings,
Jesse

Answered un-prayed prayers

2011-03-24T08:29:00.002-05:00

"Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26)

There are those moments, as the above verse reminds us, when we don't know what to pray, or even have the ability put words to our needs, to frame our feelings in sentences and all we are left with are groans. Yes prayer is a "hotline" to heaven, a resource to bring Heaven's power to bear on our needs. But what about when we can't even pray? It is at those moments the Holy Spirit enters into the process and offers our prayers for us. He frames our cries in words that are fit for God's ears. He offers prayers that fully capture our heartache. What blessing!

But let's take this to a higher level, our God is so gracious to hear us and answer our prayers that we have never really prayed. The Holy Spirit has even done the praying for us. God so wants to have intimate fellowship with us, He is so eager to hear our requests and so eager to answer prayer that He can't wait for us to turn our heart toward Him. He is so desirous of us, that He will even complete the process of prayer for us. What blessing!

So, if He is so anxious to hear from you, make sure you do. He is waiting. What blessing!

Jesse

Got Peace?

2011-03-16T10:36:00.002-05:00

We all have watched in horror at the devastation in Japan. A massive earthquake, whole cities being washed away by a tsunami and then the unthinkable of nuclear reactors melting down. At moments like this we are at a loss for words and at a loss for peace. Graciously God caused my mind to flash back to some words found in Psalm 46 – allow me to share them with you.

"God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains
be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling."
(Psalm 46:1-3 NKJV)

Did you catch the part about the earth being moved and the oceans roaring? Sounds like this is just what we need. To remember that in spite of it all and whatever happens God is our refuge. We can and must trust Him. Trust begins with prayer and praise. Maybe these events can serve as wake-up call for us to get on our knees before our God and renew our trust and dependence on Him.

The next to last verse of this Psalm tells us that after we have acknowledged His place and power we must do as He commands…

"Be still and know that I am God"
(Psalm 46:10)

He is, He has been and He ever will be God. For that I am thankful and in that I trust.

Jesse

PS: The above is part of my current Bible Teaching series at Mount Calvary, hope you can join us in person or online for this study.

My Time is In His Hands

2011-03-12T10:20:00.002-05:00

Tonight at 2:00 a.m. the governement of the United States has decreed that all clocks shall be moved forward by one hour. This is to allow more daylight in the evening hours. For today I asked on One Daily Question if folks were a fan of daylight savings time, and as usually the vote is split.

But my vote is no, I must confess I have never been a fan of daylight savings time. For in reality were are not getting more daylight, time is not changing we are just all agreeing to change our schedules!

Really only God controls time, He started the clock ticking and He will keep it wound. There is a verse that I think of when I think of time:

"My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, And from those who persecute me." (Psalm 31:15)

This reminds me that the events, length and path of my life are in His control, right there in His all powerful hands. Hands that have never made a mistake, never slipped or grown weary. He is involved in this second and the next second and the minute after that. I want to lift my voice in praise of the God I love and serve, and then relax in His care. Why don't you do the same - isn't it about time you did?

Got your wedding invitation yet?

2011-02-28T17:17:00.002-05:00

Are you checking your mail daily for the invitation to arrive. As a public service I want to give you a "Save the Date" warning, April 29, 2011 is the date Prince William will wed Kate Middleton in West Minster Abbey. I am sure you won't want to miss it.

I have always believed in being prepared, so just in case you happen to run into the Queen of England or other royal person at the wedding, here are some of the official rules for meeting royalty

• Women should curtsy and men should nod their heads

• If the Royal person offers a hand, the handshake should be short and not hard

• Allow the Queen or other royal person to leave the room first; backs should never be turned toward the Queen

• During meals, the Queen eats first and when she stops the others at the table stop

• If something drops at dinner do not speak; someone will retrieve it quietly and without fanfare

So why all the fuss? Because there is a place for showing honor to a person of a superior position. Honor is a key ingredient to any relationship. The Bible is clear, both in family and in society in general, in that He expects us to honor others (Eph. 6:2, 1 Pet. 3:7, 2:17). We often seek honor for ourselves when we need to heap it on others. So you may not meet a king or queen this week but there is someone in your life that you need to treat like one; do it to honor the God who has made us all.

So you and I can both show honor in the biblical sense regardless if we get an royal wedding invitation not.

Blessings,
Jesse

Have a spare 65 hours?

2011-02-16T16:03:00.004-05:00

It currently has 65 hours of Bible teaching, 112 individual sermons in 20 different sermon series. What you ask? My new podcast. I have been working for the last few weeks of creating a complete archive of all of my online Bible teaching material and you can now access any or all at:

www.podcast.waggonermedia.com

If you are looking for complete series with downloadable study notes and some with online videos you can access the Bible teaching section of my website:

www.WaggonerMedia.com/teaching.html

Also both my evening and morning messages from each Sunday are archived on the podcast by Wednesday of each week. Thank you so much for your love and support. The ministry at Mount Calvary Baptist is such a blessing. The folks there are so supportive and they have a wonderful pastoral staff. We are working on plans for starting a second Sunday morning service on Easter. Keep praying!

Blessings,
Jesse

Who is the Greatest?

2011-02-02T11:51:00.003-05:00

Who is the greatest homerun hitter in major league baseball history? That question should be easy, or is it? A quick look at stats will show that Barry Bonds ended his career with 762 homeruns, end of arguement, or is it? Questions of a "lively ball" and the use of steroids make his record in some purist's minds suspect. So maybe it is Hank Aaron, his 755 homeruns stand untainted. However there are some who argue that Babe Ruth should still get the nod, since he played in a day of shorter seasons, during his first four years (1914-1918) with the Red Sox he as a pitcher and not playing every day and the spitball was not banned from baseball until the 1921 season!

It is not my point to settle this argument but to illustrate that arriving at the point of determining the greatest no simple matter. Who is greatest is always debatable when it come to humans and human effort. However when it comes to God there is no doubt that He is the Greatest. He is at the top of every list (if not the list is wrong) in charge of everything and above everything. He is unique, one of a kind, holy!

Here is a thought that will revolutionize your thinking, the one who is greatest cares about you. He is willing to involve Himself in your life. He knows all about you and loves you anyway. He understands what no one else does, He can do what no one else can do. He is crazy about you. Get a handle on that and other opinions really don't matter.

The Greatness of God will be the subject of my Sunday morning messages at Mount Calvary beginning this Sunday. We will be looking at just how great our God is, you will be moved to worship, grow and serve in ways you have not thought of before!

You can also follow this series on 58 WCHS radio Sunday's at 7:30 a.m. or you can listen on line on my podcast page you may also download study outlines here.

Jesse

Heart of Jesus (parts 2 & 3)

2011-01-21T10:17:00.005-05:00

I am in the "red zone" with my dissertation and almost all of my time the last two weeks has been taken up with research and writing and addtions to my blog have suffered. Until I can get back to writing on a regular schedule I offer you the follow two audio sermons - this is part 2 & 3 of "The Heart of Jesus Series."

Blessings,
Jesse

In Your Darkest Hour (Luke 7:11-17)

Broken People Wanted (Luke 7:37-50)

The Heart of Jesus

2011-01-07T14:52:00.003-05:00

Finish this statement: "You really know who your friends are when __________________."

That statement can be completed several ways but in my mind real friends are those who are there for you when no one else is. The ones who take the initiative to check on you. That ones who will not let you go through whatever life hands you alone. Real friends are those who lend a hand when it is unpopular or inconvenient to do so.

By this definition real friends are rare and the make-believe kind are a dime-a-dozen. Before I sound like I am complaining – I know that I need to work on being a real-friend and I am thankful that I am blessed with some choice “real friends.” All that to say – the Lord Jesus is indeed a real friend. He is the one loves when we are unlovely, forgives when we are guilty, and will never, repeat never, abandon us (see Rom. 8:38-39). With Jesus we have a Savior who is more than someone who offers help to look good; Someone who reaches out due to some external motivation. With Him we have His heart. You can trust His heart, even when it doesn’t look like it, even when it doesn't feel like it, even when it seem illogical, Even when no one else is trusting – you can trust His heart.

This is the study I am currently working on and sharing with the folks at Mount Calvary Baptist Church on Sunday mornings. This is also available on my podcast or you can listen in at 7:30 a.m. on WCHS beginning this Sunday, January 9th. I trust we together can learn to trust the heart of Jesus.

Listen to The Heart of Jesus (part 1)

WCHS Radio

New Ministry for Me

2010-12-19T08:21:00.005-05:00

Someone once said if you want to make God laugh show him your five-year plan. Life is not always what we expect but as we follow Him it is always blessed. As many of you know this year has been a time of unexpected changes in my ministry life. I concluded my 2+ years of ministry in the pulpit of Bible Center Church in April. In August, I completed my 12 years of ministry at BCC. I have spent the last months traveling, (including a wonderful time serving missionaries in South America) and accelerating work on my Doctorate Degree.

Now the Lord has revealed what the next step in my ministry is to be. Through a remarkable set of God-controlled events I will begin serving as Interim Pastor of Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Charleston beginning in January. Pastor David Mitchell has served there wonderfully and faithfully for the past 24 years and is retiring the last Sunday of 2010. Mount Calvary Baptist has served in the Kanawha Valley for more than 100 years. The Church is blessed with a wonderful staff and excellent facilities located just off the Westmoreland Exit of I77 (one exit north of the 77 - 64 split). I will begin filling the pulpit on Sunday January 2nd and after the service on Jan. 9 the congregation will vote on the recommendation of the Deacons to approve this. I am looking forward to getting to know and serve the people who worship at Mount Calvary.

Another development is that Mount Calvary Baptist will also launch a Sunday morning broadcast on AM58 WCHS on January 2nd from 7:30-8:00 a.m. This spot has been served by Pastor Bobby Sizemore as a ministry of Elkview Baptist Church for many years, and I will do my best to continue to serve the listeners with quality Bible teaching in that location and time. Listen in if you get the chance.

While I wait for the Lord to direct to an opportunity for a full-time and permanent ministry I am excited to tackle this next task. I would appreciate your prayers in these next days. Thank you so much for all of the love and encouragement so many of you have shown over the past months.

Blessings,
Pastor Jesse Waggoner

Listen, It's Christmas

2010-12-14T14:06:00.002-05:00

I have recently been involved in an online conversation about why God would choose Shepherds to be the first ones to hear about the birth of His Son. The comments generally revolved around the connection to Jesus being the Good Shepherd, the Son of David who was a Shepherd or the fact that they were low and humble. While thinking about this I come to an even more fundamental and I believe, profound conclusion: God wanted to deliver a message. That night He chose the extraordinary means of a multitude of angels filling the sky, but He got the message across; a message of peace and goodwill and a Savior born. He directed them via the angelic announcement to find Jesus wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.

God does not often use such extreme measures to deliver news to us. He usually speaks through His all-time best seller and the only book He has written; the Bible. Our responsibility? To listen! In this case you have access to the source documents, to firsthand accounts of what God had determined for you to know. What a blessing to know that God wants to speak to you.

This Christmas please plan to invest some time digging into God’s Word, privately and with others. He has delivered on His part, are you delivering on yours?

Jesse

Video Version of this teaching

That thing is huge!

2010-12-07T10:52:00.003-05:00

Recently I needed to move a large bookcase my father had built for me (see picture below) it is beautiful, and has a built-in 55 gal. aquarium. It is huge and it is heavy. It is way beyond my ability to move. I remember that someone once said that the one thing better than having a truck, is having a friend that has one! So I called a dear friend who showed up with a huge truck complete with hydraulic life and couple of other well-muscled men. I still had to shoulder my corner of the bookcase but the gracious help of these friends got the job done.

Peter describes our Lord as “the God of all grace.” Earlier we looked at the “God” part and the “All” part, so now we want to think about the “Grace” part. Grace can be defined as God’s help in our need. That is why the bookcase story is a great example of this. The gracious act of these made a job that was too big for me possible. His grace can move even impossible things that maybe staring at you. Those things that keep you up and night and steal your joy in the day. He can move it!

So what is that huge – immovable thing in your life? That one thing that is way too big for you to budge? Maybe it is time to trust in the God of all grace. Count on His help to be there for you in your need. Renew your confidence in His showing up when you need strength beyond yourself. He won’t let you down.

Jesse

Veiw Video version of this teaching

More research

2010-12-03T11:03:00.002-05:00

Would you take three minutes and help a seminary student out? I have added three quick questions to my ongoing poll which is part of my research for my Doctoral Dissertation. I need as many responses as I can get, I so appreciate your taking the time to answer these three questions. NOTE: You will have to use your browsers "Back" button to get back to the questions page to answer the next question. Thanks so much for your help!

To take the poll go here

Running out of time (The God of All Grace part 2)

2010-11-29T10:07:00.004-05:00

"But may the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you." (1 Pet. 5:10)

I have a limited amount of time to write this before getting to my next scheduled thing. In fact I always have a limited amount of time. In reality I have a limited amount of everything – time, energy, opportunity, money, etc. and if you want to know the truth, so do you! We are finite every day and in every way.

As we think on the second part of the description of God as being “the God of all grace” I want to dwell on the “all” part. He is not limited in His grace. It never is in short supply, the transportation system to bring grace from the throne to you is never disrupted, it never runs out no matter how much you need. He is a God of unlimited grace. He is infinite every day and in every way.

So the next time you feel like your needs exceed God’s ability, or the reach of His compassionate grace – let this verse stop you and redirect you. He has not used up His allotment of grace on all the other needy people and left you without – He is the God of all grace. Thank Him for that today and live like that today – you had better get started time is short.

Jesse

Video version of this teaching

Here are some recent family pictures - enjoy!

The God of All Grace (1 Pet. 5:10) part 1

2010-11-23T12:39:00.003-05:00

"But may the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you." (1 Pet. 5:10)

For some reason a phrase from this verse had lodged itself in my mind over the past few days. Did you notice how Peter addresses God? He calls Him "the God of all grace." Stop what you are doing for a few moments and think about that. We have in our lives, caring for us the God of all grace. I will address the last two thirds of that phrase later but think for a moment about the fact that He is the GOD of all grace. If he were gracious and not God, He at best would be a benevolent person but not have the ability for that good will to do anything in our lives. No the "all grace" is empowered by the omnipotent God!

God has never seen a tight spot He could not get us out of. He has never faced a dilemma that did not have a third option. He had never faced a disease He could not heal. He has never encountered an obstacle he could not overcome or a roadblock He could not remove. He is able to deliver grace to you.

Are you in need of some encouragement today? If so, remember this; the God of all grace is on your side and He delights when His children turn to Him in faith and seek His help. So...what are you waiting for?

Jesse

Video Version of this teaching

A (non) Drive Time Video on Gratefulness

2010-11-17T20:10:00.002-05:00

As many of you know it has been sometime since I have made any new Drive Time Videos - I will spare you the details for the absence but I am make a new series of videos that while not from the road are from the heart and more importantly from God's Word. As always I appreciate your support and feed back. Just click the play button on the video below or if that is showing click the link to go to a webpage where you can view it.

Blessings,
Jesse

Click here to go to video page

Know your preacher?

2010-11-07T20:21:00.004-05:00

I need your help. Usually I try to write items on this blog to inform, entertain or inspire you but this offering is a little different. As most of you know I am working on my Doctoral Dissertation and as part of that project I am doing some original research. My subject is the role of the hearer in the preaching process. What I need is your opinion. Since I spend most of my time behind the pulpit I need to know what the person in the pew is thinking. I will do these polls over a period of time in three question segments. It should only take a minute or two of your time but your input will be a great help to this seminary student.

Just click the link below to get started and let me thank you in advance for your participation, Also, please feel free to pass this on to anyone you may like, I could use all the opinions I can get. All responses are anonymous; so tell me what you think of preaching, listening and preachers like me.

Jesse

Please note that after you click "VOTE" after each set of answers, you will be taken to a results page, use your browser's "Back" button to return to the page to answer the following queston.
TAKE THE POLL

Who is in Charge?

2010-11-03T13:32:00.002-05:00

So who really is in control on the field during an NFL game? The picture above that I took last Sunday in Dallas may give you a hint (you can click on the picture for a bigger version – you may have to use your browsers “back” button to back to the blog). In the picture you see players – it’s not them. You don’t see any coaches but it is not them either. How about the referees in their snazzy striped uniforms? Nope. Photogaphers? No. Cheerleaders? No again. It is really the man with the weird looking orange gloves. His title is NFL liaison or sideline coordinator. It is his job to get the word from the TV director in a control truck outside the stadium that the TV commercials are over and the game can restart after a break. The Refs cannot start until the sideline coordinator tells them to, on the field nothing happens until he says so. The orange gloves are so that the refs can easily see his hand signals to start or stop the game.

This got me to thinking about this – the person who is really in charge of something is rarely the person you see in the foreground. Perhaps in this political season a few folks would do well to remember that there is something more in play than just the acquisition of political power. Leaders in the church would do well to remember that no matter the title there is someone more unseen to who we are responsible. On an even more personal level we are each in charge of very little and all of us are persons under authority. So, we should all act like it.

Perhaps this would be a good time to express you submission to the God Who rules over all by offering your words of acknowledgment of His place and power to Him in prayer. As you practice the discipline of submission not only will He be honored and pleased, it will help you refocus to see His hand in your life, and you don’t even have to look for orange gloves!

Jesse

A few more pictures from our trip

The Sign

2010-10-24T09:14:00.001-05:00

Matt. 27:37, Mark 15:26, Luke 23:38, John 19:19

A hand-written sign is not meant to last long – it only for a fleeting temporary event that will soon be gone like the event of which it speaks. The person who actually put the letters to a discarded plank of wood and tacked it to the cross of Jesus had no idea that what he was labeling was far from a passing event. It was penned with as much care as a “yard sale” sign stuck on a utility pole, but it was placed over the head of one who cared enough to be sacrificed on our behalf.

The inscription in full was: This is Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews. The Jews objected and demanded the sign be edited to include “he said, I am king of the Jews. (John 19:21-23), they were OK with it being a claim of a rebel but they did not what it to be a straight-forward declarative statement. Pilate caused it to be written in way to show contempt for the Jewish authorities – this was his view of a king that would come from the Jews a weak and dying would-be ruler. These were not words the Romans believed-- but they were absolutely true! Jesus was and is the rightful heir to the throne of Israel (cf. Luke 1:32-33) but is also King of Kings (I Tim. 6:15). These truths and Pilate's words though written in unbelief attest to Christ’s sovereignty and His divinity.

The hand-written sign was to mark a moment but it testified to a movement. Something far greater was happening, something that would alter the destiny of all who believe in the King of the Jews.

Since He is our King and we are subjects in His kingdom, our response should be obedience -- complete, unquestioning obedience. God desires and deserves our worship but worship means more than offering our words to Him; He desires compliance with His will, in this is He pleased (I Sam. 15:22).

Family Update

2010-10-18T09:56:00.005-05:00

In addition to my Bible studies and essays I post weekly on this Blog, I have decided occasionally to update you all on the happenings of the Waggoner family. So, many of you have taken the effort to stay in touch and Julie and I appreciate that so much. First of all let me identify all in the picture above.

L to R: Julie, Eric and Jessica, Katie and Brian, Brandon and Heather and Me,

We both are doing well and are blessed beyond words and are constantly amazed at the goodness of our God. We were so thankful for a late summer get-together with our entire family; we enjoyed a relaxing weekend as well as a visit to the WV State Fair. In September I was blessed with the opportunity to speak at a Missionary Retreat in Ecuador. It was also in September that we said goodbye to the congregation of Bible Center Church. Thankfully we live in a day where even though we may be separated we can still stay in touch. We are so thankful for the 12 years of ministry that the Lord gave us.

We have been traveling a bit of late, I was in Chicago for some ministry meetings back in the summer, Julie I traveled to be with friends in North and South Carolina, We visited family in Richmond VA a couple of weeks ago and last week we went to Morgantown for the WVU – FSU game, and took a couple of days to travel through the eastern mountains of WV. In a couple of weeks we will be traveling to Dallas to see the Cowboys play – this has been a long time dream of ours and we are looking forward to seeing our favorite team play live! We also are working a mid-west trip in mid-November. Below, I have put some links to photo albums from some of the above if you want to take a look.

We have also been going through a renovation of our kitchen and a few other fix-up projects that have kept us busy and I am spending part of each working on my Doctoral Dissertation. I hope to be finished by the end of January.

We have been in contact with a few churches in need of a pastor. I can’t provide details yet but I would appreciate your prayers that the Lord will give clear direction to our next place of service. Whether we end up near or far we will always give thanks for each of you.

PHOTO ALBUMS:

Waggoner Get-Together

From the Road

WVU game

Fall in the Mountains

Jesse Waggoner

Time Warp

2010-10-11T08:38:00.003-05:00

"Since I appointed the ancient people. And the things that are coming and shall come,” (Isa. 44:7)

The language in this verse refers to God declaring in advance what will happen in the future. This is a question that spotlights His prophetic ability, and especially His exclusive ability do so. The Bible is full of fulfilled prophecy; more than 60 Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled on the day Jesus was crucified. Time does not permit the ability to explore many of these, but I would refer you to ten chapters further in Isaiah and to read chapter 53 and reflect on how accurately it depicts the death of Jesus. In this verse, He is challenging any skeptic to show even one example that shows that anyone else has this ability, and while the skeptic is silenced the believers should be comforted to know that He is a God who can definitively proclaim the future. In this He has no rivals.

He is unrivaled in time, and He is not just existing in time but expressing His will through time. Note well the time frames in this verse. First of all…

He operates in the past

It is He that “appointed the ancient people.” Here, He is looking back to expose His sovereign control. The people of the past were appointed, literally “placed” by God. One only has to look at the historical sections of the Bible to see everywhere His hand at work. We can likewise see His had operating in our lives and we should mark well the places along our path were He has involved Himself in our lives

He operates in the present

This is seen in this line: “and the things that are coming.” God is operating in the midst of things that were then coming to pass in the present. The trends, events, movements, circumstances and happenings of their day are connected back to the same verb “appointed” as the events of the past. He alone can appoint the events that unfold in present time to be in accordance with His will. But we are not finished. Also…

He operates in the future

Lastly He appoints “the things that are coming and shall come.” This final terminology focuses our attention on the future. Just as surely as He has appointed the past and present, His appointment, His placing, His setting of the future is likewise sure and good as done. God is the only One who can operate in the future as well as the past and present

Our heavenly Father wants us to know that the One who speaks in the past and prophesies concerning the future also traces the arc of our lives through time by means of His controlling, loving, powerful hand. Based on that, how does that help us in these troubling times in which we live? Simply, He is in control at all times!

Jesse Waggoner

The First, The Last and Everything in Between

2010-10-06T09:34:00.005-05:00

“Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel, And his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the First and I am the Last; Besides Me there is no God. (Isa. 44:6)

This verse means infinitely more than just that God has always been, that He predates everything else; it references that He is the reason everything else exists. From cover to cover, the Bible does not blush to call God the Creator of all things. “In the beginning God created…” (Gen. 1:1), “All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made” (John 1:3), “all things were created by him, and for him” (Col. 1:16 KJV), "You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created" (Revelation 4:11). When it comes to creators, remember there is only One.

Let me ask you a question: If God has the ability to create you does He have the ability to protect you in the present? Here is where we begin to see that He is the only One available for our trust and the only One worthy of our trust.

Not only is He the cause of all things, likewise…He is the culmination of all things He is the first and the last. Again, this means more than just He always will exist, He will also bring all things to a conclusion. He wrote the preface to all creation and He has already written the final chapter. Colossians 1:20 is a summary of the culminating activity of God; in this verse we see that through Christ, God will “reconcile all things to Himself.” The reconciliation is as in reconciling an account or a checkbook. When it is all said and done, all things will be as God chooses them to be; all accounts will be balanced.

May I ask you a question: If God has the ability to create you and you believe He has the ability to get you from here to heaven, does He have the ability to get you through the rest of today? If so, then let me challenge you to acknowledge His control, to obediently behave in harmony with His control. He will control you either through your worshipful obedience or in judgment, in spite of your objections…

So…give Him control

Through your will and choice, accommodate yourself to His control. Allow your trust in His control to pluck you from a sea of fear and doubt and lift you to new heights of confidence. I know this is challenging when what our eyes see lead us to fear. But we, in faith, need to reconnect with the only One who is unrivaled in control- our King and Redeemer.

Jesse Waggoner

No danger, no stress, no life!

2010-09-29T14:48:00.002-05:00

Earlier this year Julie and spent an enjoyable day at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Orlando. During a walk through one section of the park we came to the area containing gorillas. The one pictured above caught my attention and I spent a few minutes observing him enjoying an afternoon snack while watching the people who were watching him. Disney is quick to inform park guests as to how well the animals are cared for. This guy gets regular checks by the vet, they are supervised by primatologists, and their diet is strictly controlled for quality and nutritional value. They are protected by various means from any threat. In short for the most part they have it made. No poachers to contend with, no food shortages or lack of shelter. Just eat, sleep, repeat! Just do what you do and let folks who want to see you up close take a look without having to go to the Congo.

Sometimes we long for that kind of stress-free life -- but is that really living? No obstacles to overcome, problems to solve, no risk, no win or lose just maintain. Seems like all of that discomfort and chaos that I often complain about is part of God's plan to help me grow and become more like His Son. The struggle is necessary it is not optional in God's plan. So the next time life gets a little scary think about my hairy friend back at the zoo, is that really living?

Zoos are for animals - I prefer to live in the wild.

Blessings,
Jesse

Worship!

2010-09-24T08:31:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday I had the joy of worshipping with the folks at the Chaupimolio, Church in Ecuador. I have posted a short video clip so you can take a look. It has been a long time since I have been with a group who worshipped so joyously and loved each other and the Lord so dearly. Being here was truely the highlight of my trip. By US standards the folks do not have alot, the church is on a dirt street, all of them walked to church.

I am reminded of this verse: 2 Corinthians 4:18 "while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal."

Video Clip of Worship Service

Blessings,
Jesse

Greetings from Ecuador

2010-09-20T08:01:00.002-05:00

I want to give you all a quick update from South America. I have had a wonderful time of ministry in this beautiful country and with these beautiful people. I have enjoyed interacting with national pastors and visited two churches. I spent three days sharing the Word with a great team of missionaries in the delightful city of Banos. It sits at the foot of Tungurahua which is an active volcano. The beauty there is astounding. The work that these servants of the Lord are doing is likewise astounding. I think they have taught me more than I have taught them. I spoke on the subject of faith and I really feel that this time in God’s Word was an encouragement to us all. I then traveled to Pifo where I am staying on a missionary compound.

Today I was privileged to worship with the congregation of the Chaupimolino church. This church has seen great growth in the last months and has expanded their outreach and building. Hopefully this church will be fully led by nationals in the not too distant future as the missionaries phase out and begin a work in another city. The worship was energetic and from the heart. It was evident that these brothers and sisters love each other and the Lord. After service we traveled north of Quito to visit the monument at “The Center of the World” which sits on the Ecuador. Thank you all for your support and prayers . I will try to write more later, until then if you want to see a few pictures use the link below.

Ecuador Photo Album

Blessings,
Jesse

Passport in Hand

2010-09-07T14:50:00.003-05:00

A quick update on my missions trip: A week from today I will be in Ecuador, I will be sharing the Word with a group of dedicated missionaries at their annual field conference in Banos. I received my renewal passport in eight days(A big praise)and I am busy preparing messages. Thanks to so many of you who have offered words of encouagment and given to make this trip possible. Thanks too to those of you who offered to help me with Spanish - I appreaciate the attempt but I think I will stick with English for now. Please pray that I will accomplish all that the Lord intends for this trip. I will try to update you while there, and give a full report on this blog when I return.

Blessings,
Jesse

Here's what's next for me

2010-08-18T08:10:00.001-05:00

As many of you know my departure from Bible Center Church was announced last Sunday. After 12 years and growing to love the congregation of BCC it is with some sadness we make this transition but we are looking forward to the future. So what will we be doing? In the short run…

1. In mid-September I will be traveling to Ecuador to minister the word to a team of missionaries serving there. I am already working on several teaching ideas I want to share while with them. Also since the opportunity came up quickly I need to raise about $1000 right away. If you would like to help out you can use this link below I do not have a way to make these gifts tax-deductable but all money will be used for ministry purposes, if you have any questions send me an e-mail jw@waggonermedia.com.

WaggonerMedia Support page

2. A new batch of Drive Time Videos is on the way. So some encouragement from the road will soon be coming your way.

3. I will have the chance to continue my doctoral studies at an advanced pace. I may be through by early 2011.

4. We are looking for opportunities to share the Word. A few are in the planning stages, if you know of somewhere that may need a preacher for a Sunday or for an event, please let me know.

5. We continue to seek God’s leading toward a full-time pastoral ministry. Exciting possibilities are out there. I will share as I can and we do ask for your prayers in this regard.

Thank you all for your love and support, it means more than you will ever know.

Blueridge Parkway

2010-07-02T13:27:00.005-05:00

It is on my bucket list, I want to drive the all 469 miles of the Blueridge Parkway, I have been on short sections of it, and recently on my way back from a wonderful weekend with family at a wonderful Bed & Breakfast (a converted barn) we detoured through a short section of the Parkway, and paid a delightful visit to Mabry Mill which is the most photographed location on the Parkway. But job and life called and after a peaceful hour and half it was time to reconnect with the interstate highway system and head home.

One of the reasons I like this road (in addition to the mountains, fresh air etc.) was that is is not a road that is about getting somewhere, it is all about being somewhere. The enjoyment is in the journey not the destination. The max speedlimit is 45 and it is less than that in many places so you are not going to get anywhere quickly, you must slow down and enjoy what is passing by your fenders. I confess that on most days I am not very good at that, it is all about the next appointment, meeting, lesson, sermon or video to be produced. It is what is coming that is important. The only problem is; I miss the blessings that are passing in a blur.

So why don't you join me in this exercise... for a moment slow down to 35 MPH, roll down the windows, turn off the stereo, take a deep breath and enjoy the blessings that are in this moment. You wll be amazed at what you notice and you may just reduce you stress a bit to boot.

Jesse Waggoner

Drive Time Video

2010-05-28T11:48:00.003-05:00

The first six episodes of my current teaching series is available via Drive Time Video. If you want to view higher quality video you can visit the podcast archive page and choose the download link to download the MP4 videos.

Also feel free to follow DTV on Twitter @ twitter.com/DriveTimeVideo

See you on the road.

JW

Walk in... Living Like Jesus One Step At a Time

2010-04-27T13:09:00.002-05:00

Here is a preview of the current study being released via Drive Time Video --In the Christian life we focus on our future and on Jesus' work to "clean up" our past but He wants us to walk with Him each day. Each step we take is to be in harmony with His character and His Word. In this study we will learn about how to take our "Walk" to the next level. We will study several New Testament passages where are commanded to walk in...love, glory, obedience etc.

I hope to see you on the road.

The Cross Beside Jesus

2010-04-16T14:51:00.001-05:00

Here is a portion of my message at Bible Center on 4-11-2010

Easter 2010

2010-04-14T16:53:00.004-05:00

Some new pictures taken a Bible Center on Easter Sunday 2010 have just been added to the WaggonerMedia Gallery. My thanks to Jordan Damron for taking the picture and to Steven Vanhorn for sharing them with me.

Easter 2010 Photos

Blessings,
JW

Good Friday Service

2010-04-03T11:01:00.004-05:00

Here is a video clip from WSAZ coverage of the Bible Center Good Friday service.

The Torn Veil

2010-03-26T17:05:00.002-05:00

This Sunday I will be sharing part 4 of the five part series entitled: "The Cross History's Supreme Moment" as we look at the forth of five miracles that occurred when Jesus died. Each of these were designed to speak in a language that the people involved in the event would understand. We must go behind the scenes into the culture, history and Old Testament text in order to uncover the power of the messages God delivered to mark the significance of the sacrifice of His Son.

Feel free to join us at Bible Center Church this Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45, or on the radio AM 580 WCHS @9:30 a.m. or online at www.WaggonerMedia.com

Blessings,
Jesse Waggoner

What a Week

2010-03-26T17:03:00.001-05:00

What a week! There certainly could be no more momentous week than the one which stretched from the Sunday Jesus entered Jerusalem, riding on a donkey to the following Sunday when He left the tomb. It was the week that completed the mission of redemption. It was the week that sealed the fate of Satan and those that follow Him. It was the week that secured the destiny of all those who in faith follow Jesus.

This week I want to invite you to walk along with Jesus through that last week. Take some time to, either alone or with your family read through the accounts of this week in the Gospels. Then join us for the events we have planned to help focus our attention and stir our worship on the God who poured out His love upon us. Tonight we have our annual Easter musical presentation featuring our Sanctuary Choir. We will have a special service on Thursday night with communion as we remember the last supper; a Good Friday service will take us to the cross; a contemporary service will prepare us for the dawn of resurrection week. The capstone will be our three services next Sunday as we worship our risen Lord.

Make plans to be moved by this week-long journey and be sure to invite someone to come along with you.

Easter = Outreach

2010-03-19T09:22:00.002-05:00

I have seen signs that the seasons are changing the last few days. There has been a little more sunshine, the temperatures are warmer and the trees are beginning to bud; all great things in my book. Churches also have seasons and the time just before Easter is harvest time. Even those who would only be slightly inclined to attend church seem to be more open at Easter time. We usually have our highest attendance of the year on Easter Sunday. Church growth experts call it “The Easter Surge.” Whatever you call it, we should all be alert to the opportunities to do some outreach. We at Bible Center will be sure to be ready to welcome our guests and make sure the Gospel is clearly presented.

As you leave services on Sunday you will be given two Easter invitation cards that list all of our upcoming activities as well as give a special invitation to our celebrations of the resurrection of our Lord. Please pass these on with a friendly encouragement to join us. If you would like more than two, please stop by the Information Desk and get some extras.

We also are providing three electronic ways to share the same invitation. If you are a subscriber to CONNECT, you will receive one via e-mail; and please forward this e-mail on to anyone you like. If you are not a subscriber, just send an e-mail to info@biblecenterchurch.com and we will send you one. If you are on Facebook, just visit the Bible Center page (www.facebook.com/BibleCenter) and “Share” the invitation on your profile. If you are a Twitter user, you can “Retweet” the invitation as well (www.Twitter.com/BibleCenter).

Let’s see what God can do through all of us in these next two weeks.

Earthquake

2010-03-11T11:23:00.005-05:00

Theologians and biblical scholars love to argue many things and one of them is: when is a miracle a miracle? Some things are clearly miracles, such as Jesus walking on water, turning water into wine, etc. But what about an answered prayer- was that a coincidence or God’s use of ordinary means to accomplish His purpose through providence? I am not sure that most of us strive for that level of exactness; we are content to give God credit for an extraordinary intervention, even through the use of ordinary devices. In our study today, we will look at the earthquake that occurred as Jesus died. Earthquakes happen frequently; in fact, on the day I write this (3/10) the USGS has recorded 31 earthquakes in the world with a magnitude of 2.5 or greater. It is only when they are massive or in populated areas that we hear about it, such as the recent ones in Haiti and Chile.

But sometimes God so times the circumstance and the moment of the “ordinary” that there is no doubt that He is making a statement. Often the statement may be unclear, but in the context of the cross it is. The shaking of the earth was to show that His power is supreme and after a three hour absence during the darkness, He was back and in control!

In your ordinary moments, be alert that God is at work doing extraordinary things. You also are invited to join us for part 2 of "The Cross: History's Supreme Moment" this Sunday at Bible Center Church or online at WaggonerMedia.com

Blessings,
Jesse

The Cross: History's Supreme Moment

2010-03-03T16:40:00.003-05:00

I thought you may like a little preview of my coming series of messages...We go to great lengths to mark a special day. We eat cakes, tie up balloon, decorate homes, send cards, sing songs, and a hundred other things. Sometimes the lengths we go to seem extreme. I remember one wedding at Bible Center where the wedding party left our parking lot not in a car pulling cans, but by helicopter!

There was one day like no other on God’s calendar, and He went to great lengths to “mark” this day as no other. For the next five Sunday’s we will be looking at the miracles that occurred on the day Jesus died. Each of these five supernatural events were designed to be a marker that this was the day that was at the intersection between time and eternity, between the need of sinful man and the love of Holy God. As we study these we will also find that each miracle was carefully chosen to send us a particular symbolic message as to the spiritual reality that was unfolding on Calvary. So let’s enjoy the journey back to the cross where we will find that it is the supreme moment in history!

So you are invited to partipate at Bible Center at either 9:00 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. or online at www.WaggonerMedia.com

Blessings...

The Sandwich Generation

2010-02-27T15:07:00.002-05:00

Are you part of the “Sandwich Generation?” Nearly 25% of Americans are –no, I don’t mean those who frequent Subway or live to create culinary masterpieces on bread. The phrase “Sandwich Generation” is of recent origin; in fact Merriam-Webster officially added the term to its dictionary in July 2006. The Sandwich Generation is a generation of people who care for their aging parents while supporting their own children. Due to the extension of our life expectancy and the phenomenon of “delayed adulthood,” more and more of us are faced with being sandwiched between caring for those above and below us. There are variations on this theme-there are:

The Traditional Sandwich: those sandwiched between aging parents who need care and/or help and their own children.

The Club Sandwich: those in their 50s or 60s sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren, OR those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

The Open Faced Sandwich: anyone else involved in elderly care.

If you find yourself in this stage of life or if you sometime may, let me assure you that caring for children and parents has been part of God’s plan for as long as there have been families. I have recently read again the story of Joseph as found in Genesis, I noted particularly in chapters 45-50 you find some great examples of parenting from the side of the child caring for an aging father – in this case Jacob. It also shows the attitude of the parent to his adult children, in this case Joseph and his brothers. I could summarize it in two words: Care and Cooperation. These are the essential attitudes on both sides of parenting. They are ones I want to work on and invite you to do the same. Until next time…

One Daily Question - Website

2010-02-25T08:13:00.002-05:00

The One Daily Question Website is now open for visitors. As you perhaps know one daily question has been running on Facebook and Twitter since January but the questions are now available to those surfing the web. So feel free to point your friends to www.OneDailyQuestion.com

Here is an excerpt from the website with a little explaination:

"One Daily Question delivers One Daily Question to you via Twitter, The Web or Facebook. Let the power of a question lead you to a better understanding of yourself and others in your life, or just have some fun. The easy way to interact is to visit the Facebook Fanpage, where you can leave your answers and interact with others who enjoy One Daily Question. The easy way to have the question delivered to you is via Twitter or you can check back to this website. So use today's question to stir up some conversation around your office, dinner table or during your commute. So enjoy today's question and learn something about yourself and others @ www.OneDailyQuestion.com"

"The Fear of Man" Video

2010-02-18T10:38:00.001-05:00

From the message entitled "The Fear of Man" from Isa. 51

"The Missed Cross Video"

2010-02-18T10:34:00.002-05:00

Here is a video clip from the message entitled: "The Missed Cross"

Voice of the Valley - 2-14-2010

2010-02-15T19:14:00.003-05:00

Second interview in as many weeks on Ric Cochran's radio show - voice of the valley talking about the upcoming Dennis Lee performance at Bible Center. Listen below

Get this widget

Track details

eSnips Social DNA

Real Love

2010-02-12T12:05:00.003-05:00

I love asking questions; recently I asked this question online via www.OneDailyQuestion.com: What is the perfect Valentine gift? I was somewhat surprised at the responses both online and in person. Most folks did not mention the usual gifts- very little talk of cards, flowers, candy, jewelry, etc. Instead it was a gift selected to match the person or dinner out or some time together. In our overly commercialized world, we can understand retailers pushing romantic trinkets our way but when it comes to love, the best gift we can give is ourselves. We sometimes fall prey to the thinking that we can substitute “things” for time. We must spend time adding value to others and nurturing relationships.

So on this Valentine’s Day, which is devoted to love, it would be a good time to devote some time and personal attention to those we are to love. So even if you have a box of candy ready or a nicely wrapped present to be delivered, don’t forget to deliver yourself. After all ,when God wanted to display his love to us He didn’t send a card, He sent His son.

Happy Valentine's Day,
Jesse

One Daily Question - Radio Interview

2010-02-08T07:17:00.010-05:00

I enjoyed the opportunity to be on Ric Cochran's Voice of the Valley Radio Show on Sunday. We talked about social networking in general and my new project - One Daily Question in particular. For someone who wanted to be in radio when he grew up, it is always fun to be in the studio. If you want listen to it, use the link below.

Get this widget

Track details

eSnips Social DNA

2010-02-06T13:59:00.001-05:00

Where did you last see a cross? Was it a piece of jewelry? Embroidered into a Bible cover? Engraved on some furniture? Adorning the top of church? Or used to mark a grave? The cross has become THE symbol of our faith and for good reason. Without the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, we have no hope. Paul referenced the cross this way:

"But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." (Galatians 6:14)

I have come to believe that God really wants us to remember the events surrounding and the significance of the cross. One way He helps us remember is through a regular observance of communion. In picture form we once again show the death of our Savior. He has done so much to help us remember, so let's fully engage our hearts and minds and allow our thoughts to reconnect to the cross.

One Daily Question

2010-01-28T07:54:00.005-05:00

As person who seeks to be a good communicator I have learned the value of asking a good question. I have been blessed with a number of friends who ask me outstanding questions and I am the better for them.

I am pleased to announce that I have started, first on Twitter and now Facebook, asking a daily question that I trust will help you stop and think, generate good conversation or just bring a smile. I hope those of you who see the question in your Twitter feed or in your Facebook news feed will appreciate the questions and will feel free to share them with others. I won't clutter your online world - just one question a day, some serious, some just for fun. Respond, submit your own questions or complain - all is welcome and encouraged.

Will you let me know what you think? (there is another question)

Blessings
Jesse Waggoner

One Daily Question on FACEBOOK

One Daily Question on TWITTER

One Daily Question on WaggonerMedia.com

Marriage Protection

2010-01-22T16:32:00.002-05:00

When it comes to weddings I usually have the "best seat in the house." Getting to officiate at a wedding is one of the fun things a pastor gets to do and it does offer a wonderful perspective on the proceedings. For one thing, no one blocks your view; you get to really see the reactions of the bride and groom and you have no trouble hearing the vows being said (you also can't be late since they can't start without you!). One of my favorite moments is when the bride first makes her appearance; I usually glance at the grooms face and watch the "wow" expression when he first glimpses his bride in her wedding day glory.

There are more sobering moments in a wedding, especially when I say the part about..."until death do us part." This fixes in my mind the preciousness of marriage and its permanence. There are very few other things in life to which we make a life-long, sacred vow. Not every marriage makes it until death do us part, but that is certainly God's greatest ideal for every marriage and this is what we, as ministry, are committed to helping our couples accomplish. The best thing that you can do to work toward a permanent marriage is focus on your and your spouse’s spiritual development. From our growing commitment to Christ comes a growing commitment to marriage. Please pray for couples and families as we continue today to see what God has to say about the family this Sunday at Bible Center or you can catch up on the "Family Survival Kit series" at WaggonerMedia.com

Father's Love Letter

2010-01-16T20:16:00.001-05:00

Don't miss this video - it may change your life!

Copyright 1999-2005
www.FathersLoveLetter.com

$122 will protect your family

2010-01-13T14:30:00.003-05:00

According to the website www.quakekare.com you can purchase a family survival kit for five people for only $122.00. The kit includes: “the most effective emergency supplies for emergency preparedness including the emergency food, water, lighting, radio, first-aid, sanitation, and shelter supplies to prepare for all disasters. This deluxe kit also contains a Solar / Hand-Crank Powered Flashlight, Radio, Flashing LED Siren & Mobile Phone Charger with a universal adapter - just plug in your cell phone car charger to charge your phone using the hand-crank / Dynamo Power Generator.” And in design of creative ingenuity all of this comes packed in a large plastic pail with a hinged lid that can serve as portable toilet.

I don’t know if you have such a kit, or if you have any emergency supplies set aside for an emergency but there are those threats that come that even Quake Kare kit can’t cover. For these we need to have God’s direction, advice and involvement. I want you to plan to join us on Sunday as we continue our study called "Family Survival Kit" and if you need to catch up on the series you can find audio/video and notes from the series on the WaggonerMedia.com website. As we continue to study God's Word, will you join me in being thankful for the resource He gives to protect us spiritually?

The King Comes to Charleston

2010-01-13T10:28:00.005-05:00

Recently the news media took note of what would have been Elvis Presley's 75th birthday. Also more than 30 years after the event, a previously unknown recording of Elvis' 5th and final concert in Charleston has surfaced. The concert was the 8:30 show on July 24, 1976. Toward the end of concert (you can hear the final portion here) Elvis remarks to his West Virginia fans...

"you are really a fantastic audience here... anytime you want us back here, just let us know and we will be glad to come back, until we meet you, adios."

But we now know the rest of the story, Elvis did not return to Charleston and 13 months later at the age of 42 the mega-star from Memphis was dead. Presley's last Charleston stop is interesting for other reasons, three days later Elvis's long-time girlfriend, Linda Thompson, who more than anyone kept Elvis's drug habit is check, would leave him. And in a bit of hind-sight irony the last song before the quote above was, "Ain't it Funny How Time Slips Away."

I only tell this to make this simple point - we have no promise of tomorrow. Or as James puts it...

"Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit"; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that." (James 4:13-15)

Our times are in the hands of God, and it is for Him we are to live. And since our journey through this life is amazingly brief make every moment count. A final note from recording above - it ends with the now famous announcement that "Elvis has left the building." What will be left when you take your bow and make your exit?

The first law of influence

2010-01-09T21:44:00.002-05:00

I am sharing my teaching material from my Wed. night class "The Art of Biblical Leadership" on this video podcast

Here is a a sample....

Some New Year's Resolutions You Can Keep

2010-01-08T12:47:00.001-05:00

It is no secret that most New Year resolutions are not kept, and by this point in the new year is when most start to crumble. So to help you out here is a short list of resolutions you can keep:

1. I am going to eat more and exercise less
2. I am going to watch more TV
3. I am going to spend less time listening and more time talking
4. I am going to max out my credit card
5. I will share my opinions without worrying about facts
6. I will always assume I am right
7. I will always assume you are wrong

So what do you think? OK, I wrote those hoping you would smile, but also to prove a point. To do the right thing we must be intentional and we must apply discipline and hard work. This is true in the spiritual realm. In order to grow in Christ and influence our families for Christ, we must "roll up our sleeves and get to work." We can begin that by giving ourselves over to the study of the Word of God. I am ready, are you?

Clip from Christmas Concert

2010-01-04T08:26:00.002-05:00

I and the other pastors of Bible Center joined the BCC praise team for this song during their Christmas concert - first time playing the drums in public in 30 years! Enjoy

Resources for - Family Survival Kit Series

2010-01-02T21:41:00.004-05:00

I mentioned a couple of resources in session one of the "Family Survival Kit" series that will soon be available on WaggonerMedia.com. One was the book the DNA of relationships. You can get it on AMAZON.com, I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to seriously improve your relationships.

A second resource is the National Institute of Marriage which offers intensive marriage counseling in both Branson, MO and Rome, GA. The website of this organizations is www.nationalmarriage.com/

If you want more information on "Core Fears" use this link
Core Fear Test Michael Smally

More on Core Fears and Connection and Control
Core Fears

MP3 Audio on DNA of Relationships

Article on the "Fear Dance" by Dr. Robert Paul
Egypt to the Promised Land

Blessings,
Jesse Waggoner

Thoughts for the new year (and the old one)

2009-12-31T12:17:00.007-05:00

As we are about to turn the page on our calendars and bring 2009 to an end and welcome in 2010, I have been thinking about this last year. As in every year there is some good and bad. A friend of mine who nearly died due to an acute illness has been counting down for several days - looking forward to getting this year over. I know another couple who had their first grandchild - they don't want this "perfect" year to end. For me this year has had more than its share of ups and downs, but a moment and the gift of friends stand out as special ones to both Julie and me. We have some dear friends that found out that he was unexpectedly, (and unfairly, I think) losing his job. He was going to have to relocate to find another job in his field. One day he shared with Julie some verses from his devotions that day.

"I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" (Psalm 27:13-14)

The part we all focused on was that we would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living - we don't have to wait until heaven for all of our blessings. We should not lose heart but expect to see the goodness of the Lord. This message from God came at a particularly disheartening time in our lives and we latched onto it.

Even on this last day of the year there remain questions and challenges but I am learning, slowly it seems, but learning in new way to trust in God for every moment of my life. He has sustained me in the past (See post for 11/18/09 for video on this subject: Backing Into the Future) and I know He will do so in the days that lie ahead.

Since these verses have become so precious to us, Julie asked our friend, Sonny, who does wood burning to make a wall plaque (pictured below) for our friends. We made a trip to PA to present it to them in their new home. What I didn't know was that Julie had Sonny make one for me (above) that she hid away for several months and presented to me on Christmas. It is now proudly on display in our family room as a continual reminder to wait upon the Lord and expect to see His goodness in the land of the living.

Happy New Year Everybody,
Jesse Waggoner

The above is the one for our PA friends

Sonny's "Signature"

Family Survival Kit

2009-12-28T15:07:00.002-05:00

Our new Sunday Morning Bible Study series for January will be "Family Survival Kit" - The stress on all family relationships seems to be greater than ever, but God's Word has has always been the best guide for family life. Make plans to be part of this study were we will learn together God's purposes, plans and solutions for your family.

I would appreciate your prayers as I spend time in the Word in order to prepare to communicate God's truth.

After the fact, teaching audio, video and notes will be available on www.WaggonerMedia.com

The Art of Biblical Leadership

2009-12-22T07:48:00.000-05:00

The winter session of Bible Center Church's Life University will begin Wed. Jan 6, I will be teaching a class entitled: The Art of Biblical Leadership. The study will use the life of Nehemiah as a guide. Also students can optionally take this for credit (2hrs) or for a CEU from Appalachian Bible College. If you are in the Charleston area I would encourage you to participate.

What does it mean?

2009-12-19T19:24:00.001-05:00

Think of the last nativity scene you saw. What if you had no knowledge of the Christmas story and your assignment was to deduce the story from that picture of the circumstances of Jesus birth? Would you conclude that the baby was of some importance since he is surrounded by crowd of shepherds, farm animals and middle-eastern nobles bearing gifts? But if is He has such notoriety why a bed of hay, and why a barnyard maternity ward? I think for the uniformed it would not really make sense. The nativity set would generate more questions than answers.

It is only with the backdrop of the Bibles account does it all make sense. In its pages you learn of the Fathers love, the Sons obedience, the angels worship, Marys wonder, Josephs faith, the shepards diligence, the wisemens persistence and the worlds Savior. I am looking forward to spending the next trio of Sundays to take us all back to the manger and lets be amazed again at what we find.

Open your present

2009-12-19T19:22:00.001-05:00

A few years back at a family Christmas get-together, the house was filled with presents and persons. I am sure you know something of this kind of gathering. It consisted of two grandparents, a couple of great grandparents, several children, a few in-laws, a bunch of grandkids, a trio of pets and some assorted family friends. When the time came the kids began the opening their presents, followed by the adults. Finally, there remained one nicely wrapped box. It had no tag or name listed. It remained unopened until we could figure out what to do with it.

Salvation is also a gift: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23). It cannot be purchased or earned through our good deeds; it only can be accepted on the basis of faith. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). Faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ is the only way to open the gift of God.

What of the unopened gift? Finally someone was selected to open it and it was directed to the right recipient. Perhaps this Christmas there is still one gift you have not opened. God is waiting to give you the gift of salvation.

Digging Deeper

2009-11-20T10:20:00.003-05:00

Here is a preview of my next teaching series at Bible Center. For the next three Sunday Nights we are going to be going a little deeper into the Word to find some hidden treasures for our souls. As we look beyond our English translations to the original language of the Bible and see the concepts and ideas that do not translate well into our language. As we do we will find some amazing truths that has been buried there all along.

A sample of this kind of study can be found in the video one this page.

So I hope to see you Sunday night as we prepare to dig.

Jesse Waggoner

Backing into the future

2009-11-18T13:55:00.002-05:00

Here is a clip from last Sunday's message, a reminder that our view of the future is informed by God's faithfulness in the past.

The Anitdote for Fear

2009-11-17T12:44:00.002-05:00

I don't usually post Drive Time Videos in my blog as you can always view them at www.DriveTimeVideo.com or www.WaggonerMedia.com You can also subscribe to the podcast or e-mail list, but this one goes so well with my Sunday Morning series at Bible Center Church, I thought I would make an exception this time. (In case you are wondering, I am driving on Smith Road between South Charleston and Tornado WV.

Blessings from the Road and otherwise,
Jesse Waggoner

Living out of a suitcase

2009-11-16T08:21:00.001-05:00

For most of the week just past I have been staying in a hotel and I have been living out of a suitcase. I am glad to being back in Charleston, in my own home, sleeping in my own bed, and today to be back with you. But there is something one can learn from living out of a suitcase. I am (for a brief time anyway) able to live quite well with only a limited amount of stuff, and even at that I usually pack more stuff than I really need. But maybe I am not the only one who is a little “over packed.”

In 1 Peter 2:11 the apostle Peter appealed for believers to live a life of purity because believers are “Pilgrims” or travelers in this world. In essence, this side of heaven, we are all “living out of a suitcase.” Our real home is with our Lord --our present location is only temporary. But during this trip we often overload ourselves with baggage we were never meant to carry. Our God really wants us to travel light by casting our burdens of worry and care on him (1 Peter 5:7). As we look at another portion of God’s Word that provides for us some amazing reasons to trust God, I hope you will leave with a little less baggage today. It is my prayer that God will cause you to trust Him more today. Will join me in praying that God will help us all do a little unpacking?

If you are not in Charleston, you will be able to listen to this message shortly on www.WaggonerMedia.com

Meerkats

2009-11-13T11:37:00.004-05:00

This is the video I put together to introduce my current teaching series, the "good news" is there are amazing reasons to trust God. The series is available at www.WaggonerMedia.com

Crossing the border

2009-11-04T15:11:00.002-05:00

I vividly remember the first time I was outside of the United States and was crossing the border back in. I was a teenage and with my family had crossed the bridge that connects El Paso, Texas, and Juares, Mexico. In those days a passport was not required but you had to verbally declare to the border patrol officer the nation of your citizenship. I enthusiastically stated that I was a citizen of the United States because I was proud to be, but also so I would not be stranded on foreign soil!

In a spiritual sense, we are citizens of one “country” (Phil. 3:20) but are currently residing in another (John 17:16). As we continue our Bible study series, “Amazing Reasons to Trust God’, this Sunday’s study in the Word will help us see more clearly our spiritual connection and help us overcome the fears that our “alien status” sometimes causes us. I also trust as we can focus more on our spiritual connections that we will be enthusiastic in our declaring before others that we are part of the kingdom of God, and that they too can enjoy the benefits of citizenship through faith in Christ.

If you want to get a head-start on this study read Luke 12:22-34 / If you missed any of this series, you can get caught up at www.WaggonerMedia.com

Amazing Reasons To Trust God

2009-11-02T08:55:00.003-05:00

Here is a little "heads-up" on what I am preaching on for the next few weeks... In case you haven't noticed there are many reasons to fear, in fact it seems like just about anything can scare us. God obviously knows this, for more than 60 times in the Bible we are told not to fear. If you would like some help in this area I want to invite you to go along on a spiritual journey over the next two months.

We are going to use these "fear not" passages to uncover some amazing reasons to trust God. You will be blessed -- and perhaps you know of someone who is needing some encouragement that you can invite to join you. Make plans to be part of this encouraging study in these troubling times.

Sundays 9:00 and 10:45 p.m
You can follow this series online at www.WaggonerMedia.com

Fear or Faith?

2009-10-23T15:21:00.002-05:00

The photo to the right was taken by my friend Dan Robinson, for those of you in Charleston you will recognize that it was taken from Fort Hill, looking North across the Kanawha river toward Charleston. It is also obvious that it was taken during a thunderstorm. (For more of Dan's weather pics go to www.AppalachianSkies.com) This picture is now being worked on by our graphic artist and will become the main graphic for my next sermon series, beginning Nov. 1.

I chose it because the lightening can be viewed one of two ways. Is it a source of fear that one should run for cover and tremble in its presence or does it stand for a power that is beyond us and that power is one that can uphold us in scary times? Right now it seems to me that the mood of most of us is that there is some fear among us, some frustration or worry that things on many levels are not quite right. To respond correctly we must not look at the storms but the one who controls them!

There are more than 60 times in the Bible where God instructs us not to fear and some of these will be the passages from which we learn together that there are some amazing reasons to trust in God, no matter how ferocious the onslaught. I would appreciate your prayers as I study and seek to find ways to communicate these truths. The results can be heard live at Bible Center or after the fact on www.WaggonerMedia.com - whatever the means of delivery - I pray they will cause you to trust more and tremble less.

Bible Teaching Online

2009-10-22T20:21:00.004-05:00

Six complete Bible Teaching series are now available online, these include sermon outlines, mp3 audio, and mp4 video.

I trust these will be a blessing and do feel free to share these with others. If you would like to obtain Powerpoints for any of these series feel free to contact me via the website. Note: Powerpoints are widescreen 19:1 format.

www.WaggonerMedia.com

Blessings,
Jess

In the Master's Hands

2009-10-22T15:12:00.003-05:00

I used this video to introduce the final message (#8)in the "Extreme Makeover: Soul Edition" series. It is a fitting summary of what God is doing in the life a believer. You can access the entire series at www.WaggonerMedia.com (notes, mp3 audio, mp4 video). Enjoy...

Bible Teaching Series Online

2009-10-06T21:22:00.002-05:00

In case you have not browsed over to my homepage at www.WaggonerMedia.com I want to let you know what you can find there. You can find the latest Drive Time Video, as well as the last 15 episodes in a handy player. You can find complete Bible teaching series with Mp3 Audio, notes in pdf and Mp4 video. Please feel free to distribute or use any of this material, notification and credit is always appreciated. There are also links to my personal photo galleries, an archive of writing projects and more.

You can also find a brief bio, and info about my current ministry assignment as the Senior Associate Pastor at Bible Center Church, West Virginia's only megachurch.

So get here to click on over..... www.WaggonerMedia.com

Driverless Car

2009-09-27T21:51:00.002-05:00

I used this video clip to illustrate a point in my message on Sunday. Just as it may not be a good idea to have a driverless car (at least not yet) it also a good idea to make sure we have the right "driver" steering our lives. Eph. 5:18 tells us that we are to allow the Holy Spirit to fill us - literally to control us. We need to allow Him to take the wheel. The great news is He is already available as He indwells all believers. He also is able as He has all the divine attributes of God, and He is willing to change us from the inside out. He is both the architect and the builder of the new you.

If you want to hear more you can listen to the complete message all of the others in the "Extreme Makeover: Soul Edition" series on WaggonerMedia.com. Comments always welcome.

Celebrity or Hero?

2009-09-08T12:56:00.005-05:00

I won't share his name, not only because he would be embarrassed but because you wouldn't know it. I recently ran into an old friend. It was great to see a warm smile of friendship on his worn face. I wanted to tell you a little about him but was wondering if you would listen. If I name dropped a celebrity name you may have taken notice. But why would we? For some reason the star of some meaningless TV show, or the voice on a recording or long-gone victories on the athletic field grabs our attention. We take note, we stop and look and listen. We tend to overlook real character while being captivated by the emptiness of make believe fame. Instead, we see a well-known face that was once a person we all thought we "knew." We don't think much of the addictions, the failed relationships and the layers of self-centeredness, we only see the face that once beamed from so many autographed 8x10 glossies.

No, my friend is no celebrity, he has simply kept his marriage vows for 40 years, took his kids to Sunday School, went to work and paid his bills and above all loved his God. He is not a household name but he is a hero. Not for what he did that was noticed, but what he did wanting no notice.

I prefer heroes to celebrities.

2009-08-31T16:18:00.000-05:00

Video used to introduce the fourth message in the Extreme Makeover: Soul Edition series. More to come - follow it on www.WaggonerMedia.com

Drive Time Video

2009-08-30T12:54:00.002-05:00

I recently completed an update for the website of Drive Time Video (http://www.DriveTimeVideo.com).

These twice a week video messages began in July of 2008 and has now grown to a monthly audience of more than 1800. Thanks so much for your feedback, encouragement and sharing these. If you have missed previous ones we keep the last 15 episodes online. You can also subscribe by RSS or sign-up for an e-mail list that will alert you to when a new episode is released.

Also, beginning today you can keep up to date with Drive Time Video via Twitter, just go to http://www.Twitter.com/DriveTimeVideo

Twitter & Facebook

2009-08-25T12:20:00.002-05:00

Always on the lookout for new ways to allow the Bible Center family to connect I am pleased to let you know of two social networking tools to allow you to do so. We are offering daily (at times more) daily updates (tweats) on Twitter and we have created a Bible Center Fan page on Facebook. If you use either of these services or would like to, use these links.

Bible Center on Twitter

Bible Center on Facebook

If you want to follow my personal activities, quotes and thoughts feel free to use these links for my personal tweats and FB page

Twitter.com/JesseWaggoner

Facebook.com/jwaggoner

Twitter is a microblogging service where users can post brief (140 characters) updates of their thoughts and activities. You can choose to follow others and others can follow yours as well.

Facebook is the largest Social Networking service in the world with more than 250 million users. You can must sign up for a free account for most activities on Facebook but you can view the content of our fanpage without becoming a member, to add content you must be a member. So give a try to these new ways to connect.

Voice of the Valley

2009-08-16T19:46:00.003-05:00

I enjoyed being a guest on the Voice of the Valley program with Ric Cochran today, the show is heard on all seven radios stations of the West Virginia Radio Corp. Southern Division. It was great chance to talk about everything from my Drive Time Videos to Theology. I was on to promo Bible Center's Backpack project and the upcoming Fresh Grounded Faith Conference. To hear a segment of the program use the link below.

Get this widget

Track details

eSnips Social DNA

Shout-Out to Drs. Eastwood

2009-08-14T09:08:00.003-05:00

Both Julie and I have been helped so much by the services of Dr. Jody and Heather Eastwood with Healthsource here in Charleston. I would recommend them to you! Their approach of Chiropractic & Progressive Therapy is truly the way to go with back and neck problems. As a bonus Megan and Grant are the best massage therapists in the valley! Thanks guys.

Trail Map, Sunday Nite Bible Study for Kids

2009-08-13T11:26:00.001-05:00

Beginning Sunday night August 16th elementary aged children can participate in the evening Bible Study by using a Trail Map, this interactive Bible study sheet will bring them into the study of God's word. Many parents use Sunday nights as an opportunity to worship with their children and with this added resource it can be even more fun and valuable for your family.

Just have your children pick up a trail map near the front doors and use it during the service. After the service they can show it to one of the guides at the front door "Mailbox" and select a small prize as a reward for a job well done. We hope to see you and your children there. Nurseries for preschool children and youth programs will continue to meet on level one on Sunday nights.

Download a sample Trail Map Sheet

Follow me on Twitter

2009-08-11T06:25:00.002-05:00

I have enjoyed connecting with friends old and new on Twitter, if you would like to follow me or would like a follow from me, go to www.Twitter.com/JesseWaggoner

Drive Time Video Sample

2009-08-04T15:59:00.002-05:00

I thought it may be time again to give you a sample Drive Time Video on my blog, in case you have missed this, new videos "from the road" are online each Tuesday and Friday, you can find them at:

www.DriveTimeVideo.com,
www.WaggonerMedia.com,
www.facebook.com/jwaggoner,
www.waggonermedia.podomatic.com,

you can also subscribe to my e-mail list to inform you of new episodes or subscribe via RSS to receive the podcast via iTunes or your favorite podcatcher. Updates usually appear on Twitter as well

http://twitter.com/JesseWaggoner

So watch via your desktop, laptob, Blackberry or iPhone but however you watch, I trust you are blessed and encouraged.

Jesse Waggoner

Extreme Makeover: Soul Edition

2009-07-31T07:47:00.003-05:00

I thought I would give a heads-up to a new teaching series I am working on. If you can participate in person you can listen or watch online via the podacast or video podcast available at www.BibleCenterChurch.com, here is the description of the series:

Extreme Makeover: Soul Edition
Sunday Evening Teaching Series
Pastor Jesse Waggoner

It is no secret that mankind needs a radical makeover; that we need to be remade from the inside out. The good news is that through Christ just such a makeover is in progress in the life of a follower of Jesus. Come and learn about who you are destined to be in Him and learn how you can cooperate with the process of change that He wants to accomplish in you.

So join us Sunday evenings at 6:00 p.m. beginning
August 9, 2009.

Online Bible

2009-07-20T15:25:00.001-05:00

My friend Jon Browning has created and introduction/tutorial video for the Online Bible. This is great program that I use often and best of all it is free! Watch the video and see what I mean.

Thoughts from Dad

2009-06-17T20:46:00.001-05:00

Children do seem to grow up fast, this year my youngest crossed the line into being a twenty-something. This has happened in a blur of time. In fact, I now find myself telling young parents to enjoy every moment with their little ones because they will blink and the kids will be heading out the door.

As I have watched my children grow and change I have to wonder if my Heavenly Father can see growth and change in me. I want to be a father and person who stays on the growing edge of life. I want my life to display constant growth in the Lord.

On this special day, may each of us be reminded – especially those of us who are fathers – to continue growing and changing so that our Heavenly Father will be pleased with how quickly we’ve grown, and our children will follow in our footsteps.

Flag Day

2009-06-11T06:47:00.003-05:00

June 14 is Flag Day, while not an official Federal Holiday it does commemorate the day in 1777 that congress adopted the United States Flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day and in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress. The week of June 14 is designated as "National Flag Week." During National Flag Week, the president typically issues a proclamation urging U.S. citizens to fly the American flag for the duration of that week. I never tire of seeing the Stars and Stripes flying and so appreciate all that our Flag represents of our great nation.

Psalm 60:4 tells us that God has given us a Banner (flag) of truth. It is our allegiance to the truth that should be on public display before an often skeptical world. In addition to our study of the Word to understand and know the truth, we must also live out God’s truth every day.

So get your flags flying.

Feeling Small

2009-05-28T12:36:00.001-05:00

When we express size we often use comparisons to do so. Expressions such as "big as a whale", "small as an ant", or "the size of a breadbox" all communicate size. But if we can make it a little more personal, what comparisons do we use to determine our size? If you have stared at an amoeba through a microscope you no doubt felt quite huge; while peering into the Grand Canyon or viewing the ocean will make you feel quite small. Such experiences tend to put us back into our place.

The Psalmist David describes such an experience in Psalm 8. The thing that made him feel small was considering the extent of God's creation. He wrote: "When I consider the heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained: What is man, that Thou are mindful of him?"

When was the last time you felt small in the presence of God? Perhaps this summer would be a great time to seek out some place to experience the awesomeness of God's creation. So pack your lunch and your Bible and head out to be impressed with who God is and what He has done. Seek to reach that point of feeling small, and while you are in that reduced condition, offer words of praise for His immeasurable grace.

2009-05-20T12:27:00.000-05:00

Webster says that a reward is something given in return for good or for service or merit. In our lives we are motivated by rewards. The most obvious is the paycheck we receive for work. There are three major kinds of employee payment. The first is a salary. This is a fixed payment at regular intervals for work performed. The second is hourly, whereby a person is paid a fixed rate per hour worked. A third is piece work where payment is made strictly on the basis of production.

In I Corinthians 3:8-9 God tells us that -"every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are laborers together with God:" It seems as if God's rewards are most like piece work. I This labor is not to get us to heaven but is the product of a life transformed by God's grace as one labors because he is on his way to heaven ( see Ephesians 2:8-10).

It is worth thinking about what rewards may await us at God's throne. All of us who are part of God's family are to be involved in the service of our Lord. Remember His Word to us --"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Rev. 22:12