The clock of 2010 is quickly running out. As I think about the number of people in this world who have not heard the gospel I realize the critical nature of time and the need to move the work of extension training forward.
Statistically we are told 1.8 die every second. By the time it takes to read this report, approximately 1,000 people will leave this earth to stand before their Creator. Sadly, most, if not all, will be unprepared. How will we most effectively answer the call of the Great Commission?
I am not challenging the benefit of our traditional approach to mission work. Rather, I would like to see us build upon the work accomplished by so many who have and continue to sacrifice the comforts of home to labor in foreign fields. Training men in their own country, in their own language, to teach their own people has proven to result in greater levels of success. For this reason the Bear Valley Bible Institute wants to use the time we have been given to advance the work by training men to preach the gospel throughout the world.
We plead with you to consider how you can be involved in greater ways to help us carry out this work. Monthly support and/or one time donations do so much in helping train men to preach. You can make a difference for many souls.
As the year comes to an end, we are focusing our attention on further development of the work in 2011. We need you!
We do not leave 2010, however, without acknowledging all we have seen develop. Classes were taught in every level of the program. Students graduated and began working in the kingdom. International congregations began taking more financial responsibility in helping support their preachers. Groundwork was laid for the development of new schools in 2011.
There has been several positions developed and filled within the program. We now have an Assistant Director, a Director of Development, new coordinators, additional teachers, new congregations and individuals are supporting the program, and plans have been made for the greater development of the work overall through the years ahead.
Thank you for all you have done to help us in the Extension Program. We look forward to a successful year ahead. With your help, +/- 220 men will be better equipped to take the glorious gospel of Jesus to a world lost in sin. If you want to be more involved, please contact me at bturner@bvbid.org or call the Bible Institute at 303-986-5800.
Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website. These reports will be located in the Staff Reports section. The address is /extension-schools/
Extension Reports
Andrew Connally School of Preaching
The Tanzania Christian Camp was a great success. Read the latest report from Jimmy Gee here.
Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies
A Family Reconciled is a powerful story. Read Steven Ashcraft's report about his recent life changes and the work of the school in Tamale, Ghana, West Africa.
Final Thoughts
We are winding down for the year. It is incredible to think about all that has been accomplished in 2010. I am excited with the plans for the work in 2011 as it continues to grow overall.
The success we have enjoyed and the future of this work is all to the glory of God. I also want to acknowledge our gratitude for each of you for the way you have supported the work. Without your generosity and dedication, in so many areas, this work would not exist. Thank you.
I want to close with wishing all of you the best of the holiday season. I hope it is a wonderful time filled with the joys of family and friends, both physical and spiritual. I look forward to keeping everyone informed as the work develops.
God bless
Bob