en http://www.fsbctopeka.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23&article_id=474 Single and looking for a place to connect to God and others? Check out a Singles class! Everyone is welcome! If the idea of knowing God and being connected with the church is new to you or if you have been in fellowship with God and his people for years, YOU are welcome here! We invite you to visit anytime. No need to call ahead or make special plans. Just come as you are and join us any Sunday.Sunday morning Bible study meets at 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. at the church’s main building. We have 2 Single Classes : Single 1 (up to 39) & Single 2 (40 & up). During this particular phase of life we need Jesus and we need friends. Find both in a Singles Bible study.If you are interested in joining a Singles Small Group, contact Sara Jones, Director of Adult Education, at 272-0443. Thu, 2 Sep 2010 13:16:03 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=482 Last year, the Christ First Worship Band, our church's contemporary worship leaders, embarked on a project to produce a music CD of several of its favorite worship songs. The result was "In Spirit and Truth", featuring such songs as "I Will Boast", "Counting on God", "Stronger", "Your Name", and "Revelation Song", among several others. The CD is available for purchase either at the church or LifeWay Christian Book & GIft at Fairlawn Shopping Center. Individual songs can be purchased either through Amazon.com or iTunes. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:00:11 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=447 You can now get breaking news updates by following us on Twitter! Go to Twitter.com/fsbctopeka and click on Follow. The staff or Communications Team can post news items, prayer requests, events, and more and they'll show up on your own Twitter page. Also join our Facebook Fan Page -- a great place to get updates and interact with all your Facebook friends! Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:00:11 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=284 A few years ago, Dorthy and I were looking for a new church home. After visiting a number of churches in the area, the Lord led us to First Southern. We will always remember the enthusiastic welcome we received at both the church service and Sunday School. We attended a newcomers class and were later baptized. The church family at FSBC has been a source of fellowship and Christian love that has been a wonderful inspiration to us in our journey with the Lord. We thank the Father for His love and blessings. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 10:02:41 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=279 We feel richly blessed to be a part of the church family at First Southern Baptist Church. We have discovered that the church-family members are accepting, friendly and extremely caring. We soon discovered that that there are many different ministries in which we could become actively involved, each designed to meet the needs of all ages and personal interests. We love to travel and signed up to go on a trip with The Traveling Saints. We are now the coordinators of this fun, exciting and uplifting ministry of the church. Come check us out. You will be welcomed with love and open arms. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 10:02:29 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=484 Our church is loaded with great people from all backgrounds and all walks of life. We're blessed with having such a diverse family. Read some of their stories below! If you'd like to share your story or testimony with us, contact Kevin Doel at 785-554-5336. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:50 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=332 "My schedule is usually hectic and punctuated; sharing both joy and tragedy with my patients and their families. God reminds me daily that He is in control. Whether tired or enthused, confident or confused, I see Him working through me and around me." Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=333 "Being a law enforcement officer is what I do, but it is not who I am. Through my relationship with God, I have hope, purpose, strength and my identity." Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=297 "Being a part of the First Southern Baptist Church family has been a blessing. It is wonderful to have the ministry opportunities available at this church. I am especially blessed by the friendships formed by meeting College & Career people through Sunday school as well as Christian Challenge. It is evident that these people really love the Lord. I always look forward to being in their company. I thank God for allowing me to feel so welcome in this family!" Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=275 "At First Southern, we have truly found a group of Christian friends and fellow believers who have become so much a part of our lives. We have laughed and played together at fellowships and other gatherings. We have shed tears together when life was not easy. We have studied and learned together during Bible study. We have worshiped the Father together and heard the Word of God proclaimed every Sunday. We had the joy of seeing our young grandsons accept Christ as their Savior and be baptized in this church. And through it all, we have become so bonded that we are truly family. It is a joy and a blessing to have been a part of this fellowship of believers for the past 30 years." Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=274 "College & Career is a great opportunity to be around young adults going through many of the same "life situations." Every Sunday meeting is innovative, and we break up into groups to discuss the topics presented by the leader. Our small groups provide a terrific way to get to know the people around you and discuss how God is making a positive impact on your life and help you discover the areas where personal growth is necessary. These meetings are also a great way to make friends!" Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=271 "Hello I'm Brenda, a grateful believer in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am proud to be an active part of the Christ First Praise Team, Celebrate Recovery, and Director of our Singles Ministry Team. God has blessed me with a church family that truly loves and accepts people for who they are. You are invited to come worship with us and be greeted with a smile, a hand shake, or a much needed hug." Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=272 "When I was a young Christian, I went through the motions of going to church on Sundays because it was expected of me. I left the church when I was old enough to make my own choices. After the death of my parents there was an empty hole left inside of me. I didn't know how to pray, but one day I called out to God to help me. He led me to a wonderful Bible study that changed my life. In seven years, I went from knowing about Jesus to knowing Him personally as my Lord and Savior. It changed my life. God has since led my husband and I to First Southern Baptist Church where I continue to grow in faith and knowledge." Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:58:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=483 The 2009/2010 Membership Directory is now available online for members to get easy access to names, faces, and contact info for the members of our church family. This is a password protected area, so if you'd like to access the directory online, please call the church office at 785-272-0443 for a password. The directory is available to those with a password by clicking here. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:55:59 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=48 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=48&article_id=95 For over 60 years, the members of First Southern Baptist Church have crossed triumphantly over the tops of many hills, and trudged faithfully through several valleys as well. Over the course of this journey, the loving Christian servants of our church have supported missions throughout the world, started several local mission churches, become debt-free, launched numerous innovative ministries, and impacted thousands of lives. Many of the founding members of the church are still faithfully serving with us today! Pastor Clark Johnson, who came to us from Arizona in 1989, has seen how God has rewarded our commitment to sharing His Word and the love of Christ to all. Our style of worship and the size of our buildings may be different than it was earlier in our journey together, but our commitment to sharing the truth of God's Word and reaching the community and world with the Gospel is the same today as it was when we began under very humble circumstances. Our story is a testament to the power of God to do great things when His people are faithful. Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:10:40 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=479 The resulting ministry model reflects God's plan for our church to be focused on three key areas, Small Groups, Worship, and Missions. When members involve themselves on those three areas, we entrust the Holy Spirit with the life transformation that will occur in the lives of individuals, families and the overall church body. Each circle in the ministry model represents one of the three areas of life-focus, while the triangle that connects them represents life transformation. The small arrows that point inward toward a circle represents an entry point for prospects to come and join our fellowship, while the small arrows pointing outward from a circle represent our church sending people out "beyond our walls" to impact the world for Christ. Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:04:34 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=481 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:04:34 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=262 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=262&article_id=3 Our Vision Statement: "A unified body with Jesus Christ as the head, equipping believers to live out Christian faith beyond our walls." Our vision is to reach our community and make a difference in the lives they live through the Good News of Jesus Christ. We believe we can accomplish this vision through helping people discover God's purpose for their lives. Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:02:59 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=262 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=262&article_id=2 Our church is a community of believers with Jesus Christ as its head. We seek to love, respect and care for one another as a demonstration of our love for God. We believe in the One Almighty GodGod is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three personalities: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co–equal and are one God. Genesis 1:1,26,27;3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19; I Peter 1:2; II Corinthians 13:14 We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for our sinsJesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co–equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven's glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Matthew 1:22,23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1–15, 14:10–30; Hebrews 4:14–15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3,4; Acts 1:9–11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13 We believe that the Holy Spirit was given to us as a HelperThe Holy Spirit is co–equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians we seek to live under His control daily. 2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7–13, 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18 We believe the Bible is God's divinely inspired WordThe Bible is God's Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error. It is inerrant (without error in its original form). 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:105, 160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5 We believe we were created in God's imagePeople are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. People are the supreme object of God's creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called "sin." This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life. Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3–6; Isaiah 53:6a; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1,2. We believe salvation from our sins is God's free gift to those who accept it.Salvation is God's free gift to us but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self–improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God's offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin's penalty. When we turn from our self–ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his life by faith. Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 14:6, 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1 We believe in eternal security of ChristiansBecause God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ, the true believer is secure in that salvation for eternity. If you have been genuinely saved, you cannot "lose" it. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God, not by self–effort of the Christian. It is the grace and keeping power of God that gives us this security. John 10:29; 2 Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 7:25, 10:10,14; 1 Peter 1:3–5 We believe in eternal lifePeople were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life. Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence. John 3:16, 2:25, 5:11–13; Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:15; Matthew 1:8 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:01:44 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=469 Our church campus is located in the heart of Topeka at 1912 SW Gage Blvd. From I-70, exit on Gage and go south to 19th Street. Turn left and enter the parking lot to the east of the main building. Visitor parking is designated on the Southeast corner of the building. From I-470, exit on Gage and head north to 19th Street (you’ll pass our building on the right, which sits at the corner of 19th and Gage). You can either enter the parking lot from the entrance on the south side of the main building, or off of 19th Street. Click here for a map. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:57:09 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=395 Absolutely not! God is with us all week long and we aim to lead lives pleasing to him. We're not perfect and we do make mistakes, but we desire to make a positive difference in everything we do. To further encourage us, we offer midweek small groups (a small group is simply a meeting of maybe 10 people in someone's house). Small groups are a great way to get to know others and to be real with each other about everyday living. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:56:43 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=394 This is easy. We are an informal church and accept people as they are. There is no need to dress up to try and be someone that you're not. You'll see people wearing anything from jeans to suits and everything in between. Wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:56:27 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=393 If it's your first visit, then it's probably best to show up around 15 minutes early (8:15 am for the first service, 9:30 am for small groups, or 10:45 am for second service). If you are driving, then you'll be pleased to know that there is plenty of free parking with designated spaces reserved for visitors like you! You'll be greeted at the door by a member of our welcoming team who can direct you to the visitor's information station just inside the entrance to the foyer. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:55:23 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=63 Welcome to First Southern Baptist Church of Topeka! We are a dynamic community of faith, hope, and love, and exist to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ, worship the Almighty God, and develop genuine relationships with others. We invite you to discover God's joy and peace in your life, and share in touching people in our community and world through biblical teaching, service, and life-changing ministries. Together, we're striving to become the kind of church described in the Bible—a church with relevant teaching, heart-felt worship, honest friendships, constant prayer, and compassionate care for those in need. In short, we aim for the kind of contagious Christianity that can influence and encourage the entire Topeka community, one life at a time. You will find us in all stages of development, from very young in Christ to those who have known Him for years. You will find us with various victories and struggles, good days and not so good days. We ask you to join us, not based on how you found us, but because you have found Christ. He encourages you to follow Him. Because of His grace and His patience, we know He is transforming us into His image. Together we can be stronger. We can be better equipped. We can be a greater force in the name of Christ. So whether you're a spiritual seeker who is just starting to ask questions about God, or a committed Christian who wants to sink the roots of your faith even deeper, you can find a home here at First Southern Baptist Church. You'll find that this is a place where you really matter—-because you matter to God! Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:54:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=48 Every person who lives long enough will experience joy and grief, success and failure, hope and despair, health and sickness, life and death. Our world is filled with hurting people who need someone to help them when the going gets tough. Hurting people need someone who will listen. They need someone who can help them walk through the darkness and discover hope and light. They need someone to help them sort through numerous options and make healthy decisions about what to do in difficult situations. They need friends who love them unconditionally. Chances are, you have experienced these needs at some time in your life. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 says, "Praise be to the God and Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." The counselors in this ministry have received extensive education but they have also walked through troubles and have experienced the healing and comfort God has provided through others. God has placed on the counselors hearts the desire to pass on that comfort to you. If you are in need of counseling services, contact 272-0778. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:45:53 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=223 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=223&article_id=337 Item - We have kicked off the 2008 summer reading club "Build a Palm tree for the Library".Item - We need more workers willing to help out during the library open times. Thank you for using the library and your patience. Item - We have a sign at the NE entry way (Fellowship Hall) that will say whether the Main Library is open or closed. There is also a sign below the restroom sign near the elevator. We hope these signs will help people who want to come to the Main Library. Item - The Library Ministry Team had a very busy summer. With help of Leland Heifner, the library brought more bookcases downstairs and developed the area now known as the 1st Floor Library. We have: - One bookcase for adult non-fiction books and other items. - One bookcase for adult fiction which includes our large print books, books on tape and other items. - One bookcase for children and juvenile books, videos, and other items.Item - We gained several new readers during the reading club. Please continue your reading. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:35:59 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=222 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=222&article_id=336 First Floor Library: Sundary morning 8:15 AM Sunday night 6:00 - 6:30 PM Wednesday night 5:30 - 6:00 PM Main Library (room 214): Sunday morning 9:00 - 11:00 AM Sunday night 6:00 - 7:30 PM Wednesday 5:30 - 8:00 PM ----------- There will be times that the libraries will not have a person on duty. During these times, please sign the card in the book you want to check out and leave the card on the desk. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:30:48 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=224 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=224&article_id=338 The First Southern Baptist Church Media Library is a ministry to serve Christ through text and multimedia. The Library hopes to educate and to strengthen the Christian's faith through books and resource material, minister to adults and children, and to entertain everyone with Christian-based books, videos, DVD's and CD's. Please visit the Library to see what there is for you or your family. Please click here for more information on Library location and hours. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:28:44 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=42 Aside from a year in Boston and five years in Dallas, Donna has been a part of FSBC since she was born. She now directs all ministries for children from birth through sixth grade. Donna was majoring in early childhood education at Washburn before transferring to Friends University, where she graduated with a BS in Human Resource Management. Donna and her Husband Kevin have two children. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:23:48 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=455 Sara joined the church in March 2007 along with her husband, Kevin Jones, the youth pastor. In August of 2008 she joined the church staff as the Director of Adult Education. Her passion in ministry is to "make disciples," Matthew 28:19-20. She believes real life change happens in the context of biblical community, especially small groups. Lives are transformed as people encounter God through his body, the church. The verse she is loving right now is Romans 5:5, "and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Responsibilities include all Small Group Bible Studies whether they meet on campus on Sunday mornings, Sunday nights or off campus throughout the week. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:22:24 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=331 Loren & Cindy Risch, leaders of a small group that meets in their home, share what makes their group so special: "Our small group meets twice a month on Thursdays. We trust each other enough to share about the things that are both the victories and struggles of life. Several of our members cannot attend a traditional small group on Sunday morning. Our group provides Bible study and all of the other positive aspects of a small group for these people. They often express their appreciation for what this means in their lives." Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:19:08 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56&article_id=113 Student Impact is held on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Peak and is an opportunity for students to invite and bring their non-churched friends with them. Student Impact is composed of hang-out time, games, worship, teaching, small groups discussions and accountability. There are small groups for the first-timers, casual discussion groups, and small groups for those interested in the Trek and Journey program. For more information, contact Kevin Jones, Youth Pastor, at 272-0443 or kevin@fsbctopeka.org. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:13:44 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=61 Christian Challenge is the collegiate ministry at Washburn University. Our church helps support this important ministry both financially and by hosting meetings at The Peak facility. The purpose of Christian Challenge on the campus is to reach this generation with the hope of Christ and to raise up true disciples and laborers that will impact their communities and world for Christ in the next generation. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:12:59 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=53 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=53&article_id=459 MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers. It is a positive and caring network designed to nurture mothers with children from infancy through kindergarten. MOPS groups meet in churches throughout the United States, Canada and nineteen other countries. The women are of many ages and backgrounds, but share the same desire - to be the best mothers they can be! MOPS is about celebrating motherhood, making connections with other moms, providing support and affirmation and experiencing God's love through relationships and resources. First Southern Baptist Church MOPS welcomes moms from all denominations and backgrounds in the Topeka and surrounding area. It is our prayer that FSBC MOPS is able to provide a warm, caring, and accepting environment; build and strengthen friendships among women; provide support and encouragement in our role as mothers; enrich members socially and spiritually. Through all these, we hope to prepare each mom so she can face the challenges of parenting, marriage, home, community and personal needs with the help of friends and Jesus Christ. FSBC MOPS meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month from September to May from 9:30 to 11:30 am. We follow the 501 school district calendar for all holidays and cancellations due to bad weather. We meet in the fellowship hall of First Southern Baptist Church at 1912 SW Gage. If you would like more information please contact the church office at 272-0443 and they will direct you to the proper channels. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:10:22 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=471 Everything in life revolves around relationships -- everything. God places a tremendous emphasis in His Word on relationships. The Ten Commandments that He gave us are entirely focused on relationships: how we relate to God and how we relate to others. The most important relationship is a personal relationship with our heavenly Father through His Son Jesus Christ -- a vertical relationship. But let us not be so heavenly high that we are of no earthly good. Horizontal relationships bring balance in this life--and the best horizontal relationships are covenant commitments to become connected with others in a caring Christian community. As our church continues to grow larger, it must also grow smaller, ensuring that no one is "lost in the crowd" and everyone is ministered to during the peaks and valleys of life. Small Groups provide our church members with a way to connect with a few others who want to grow as Christians during times of sharing, caring, Bible study and fun. Small Groups are also a vital tool for evangelism as they offer a warm, inviting place to welcome non-Christians to learn more about the Jesus that has made such an eternal impact on our lives. In Acts 20:20, Paul's vision was "to preach the message in public (large-group worship) and to teach the message from house to house (small-group community)." Paul's vision is ours. Our church's purpose statement is "Glorifying God through lives transformed by the powerful Gospel of Jesus Christ." Small Groups provide an outstanding opportunity for people of all walks of life to discover Jesus in a new and exciting way while learning how to "live the difference" He has made in our lives. We strongly encourage you to become a part of a Small Group, joining with others in a mission to grow closer to our Lord and helping others do the same. Take a moment now to pray for God's direction in how He would want you to be involved in a Small Group, as a leader, host, or team member. There is a team that fits your schedule and lifestyle. For information on off-campus small groups, contact Sara Jones at 272-0443, or sara@fsbctopeka.org. For information on on-campus small groups, contact the church office at 272-0443. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:37:50 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=34 Let kids worship...like kids! Fun music videos with motions lift hearts and hands to God. Cool arts and crafts bring focus on the Creator. Attention-holding, life-application videos tell stories kids can relate to! That's what Worship KidStyle is all about, lifting their hearts and hands to God. Worship KidStyle is held each Sunday downstairs during the 11 am worship service. All kids from Pre-K through 3rd Grade are welcome! Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:26:57 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=35 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=35&article_id=43 Our church is led by a 7-member Leadership Team of men who have been called by God and voted on by church members to provide both spiritual leadership and administrative guidance for the church. Each position on the team serves a 5-year term and each member is eligible for two consecutive terms. The current leadership team and their respective positions are: Mel Chapman - personnel Marvin Davis - property Kevin Doel - communications Bob Eckhardt - information technology Loren Risch - prayer Gary Shook - stewardship Dan Walker - chair Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:55:45 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=478 "A unified body with Jesus Christ as the head, equipping believers to live out Christian faith beyond our walls." Vision is a description of the future from God's perspective...what God wants to accomplish through our obedience. If God were to have His way, what will our church look like in 3-5 years? What ministries? Who is the church touching? If a visitor walked in on a Sunday, what would he/she experience? Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:18:04 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=477 "Glorifying God through lives transformed by the powerful Gospel of Jesus Christ." The church's Purpose Statement answers these questions: * Why do we exist as a church? * Why did God create the church? * What is our corporate response to God's grace, mercy and love? Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:16:38 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=475 Throughout 2009, a team of staff, leadership team and ministry leaders embarked on a process of seeking God's vision for our church going forward. To do this, the team spent hours in prayer, evaluated our church history in terms of the path God had taken it to-date, took an honest assessment of where our church stands today in relation to its historical journey, summarized our core values as a body of believers, and then developed the mission statement, vision statement, and ministry model that should chart our course for at least the next three years. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:14:56 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=264&article_id=476 To determine vision and driving purpose that makes our church special in God's Kingdom, it is vital to know and understand its foundational or core values. The ReVisioning Team listed these values that reflect who we are or desire to be: * Under Biblical authority * Prayer * Mission-minded * Christ as the head * Spiritual power * Compassionate * Unity/relationships * Discipleship Ministry or Operational Values reflect the way we operate or how we choose to minister: * Innovative * Relational * Culturally relevant * Missional/outward focused * Teamwork (accountability and vulnerability) * Discipleship/equipping Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:13:56 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=11 Each week your child can be part of an exciting, safe and active environment filled with songs, games, and lovable characters that teach Godly values at an age appropriate level. Our Sunday Bible study classes meet at the same time as adult classes, and are designed for all children from First through Sixth grade. For more information about children's ministries, contact Donna Doel, Director of Children's Ministries through the church office at 272-0443 or by emailing donna@fsbctopeka.org. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 06:39:33 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25&article_id=22 The objective of the Iron Men Ministry is to lead men to an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Programs and events are designed to equip men to become Godly leaders in the home, church, workplace, and neighborhood. As "Iron sharpens Iron" (Proverbs 27:17), men sharpen one another in weekly lunch meetings, small groups, morning prayer meetings and mentoring relationships. Men are also encouraged in their Christian walk through retreats, sports outings, and other activities. Through these events, men of all ages learn to serve the church, the community, and one another. The Men's Ministry objectives are to: *Evangelize men to church membership *Disciple men to spiritual maturity *Equip men to ministry *Send men on mission beyond our walls Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:19:23 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=15 Our church provides 18 to twentysomethings a place to build authentic relationships, find direction in life, and grow in a personal relationship with God. This ministry's focus is fellowship, service, and outreach for those still attending college. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:07:07 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=456 Small groups meet all during the week. Contact Sara Jones at 272-0443 if you are interested in joining a small group and she will find something to fit your needs. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:06:21 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=35 The purpose of Children's Choir is to help children prepare to live a Christian life of praise and love. Children's choirs meet on Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m. during the school year. We have choirs for children Pre-K through 6th grade. Trained workers will love your children and help each child to develop fully the talents and abilities they have been given. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:56:54 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=60 At 9:45 a.m. on Sunday mornings, children grades 1-6 enjoy learning about God's love with activities and lessons geared toward their age level. Each age department includes adult directors, teachers, secretaries and outreach leader. Children and adults alike experience love, fun, and learning each Sunday morning. It is vital that children begin learning biblical truths of God throughout their formative years. A greater percentage of children will experience the grace of salvation than do youths and adults. Be sure your children are learning God's word on Sunday mornings! For more information about children's ministries, contact Donna Doel, Director of Children's Ministry through the church office at 272-0443 or email donna@fsbctopeka.org. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:53:36 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=263 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=263&article_id=473 Membership of First Southern Baptist Church can be achieved through either a statement of faith in Jesus Christ and baptism by immersion, or a “transfer of letter” from another Southern Baptist church (essentially one church transferring a membership from the previous church to ours). Church membership doesn’t come with monthly dues as many other membership-based organizations do; yet as the local extension of Jesus Christ in our community, membership has responsibilities that all members should strive for in their lives. These are not the expectations established by church leadership, but by God’s Word: CONTINUALLY STRIVE FOR A LIFE OF PERSONAL HOLINESS, READING GOD’S WORD AND MODELING YOUR LIFE AFTER THE LORD JESUS CHRIST WHILE HELPING YOUR FAMILY DO THE SAME "But whatever happens, make sure that your everyday life is worthy of the gospel of Christ." Phil. 1:27 “And so, dear Christian friends, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind He will accept...Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” Romans 12:1-2 JOIN WITH OTHERS IN A SMALL GROUP, STUDYING GOD’S WORD TOGETHER, AND SUPPORTING OTHER GROUP MEMBERS WITH PRAYER AND ACTION "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ...who took on the very nature of a servant..." Phil. 2:3-4,7 "Let us not give up the habit of meeting together...but let us encourage one another." Heb. 10:25 PROTECT THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH BY ACTING IN LOVE TOWARD OTHER MEMBERS "So let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony, and on the growth of our fellowship together." Romans 14:19 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs..." Eph. 4:29 SHARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CHURCH BY PRAYING FOR ITS GROWTH, INVITING THE UNCHURCHED TO ATTEND SMALL GROUP MEETINGS AND WORSHIP SERVICES, AND WARMLY WELCOMING THOSE WHO VISIT "To the church ... we always thank God for you and pray for you constantly." 1 Thess. 1:2 "So, warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmly welcomed you; then God will be glorified." Rom. 15:7 SERVE AND SUPPORT THE CHURCH BY APPLYING GIFTS AND TALENTS TO ITS MINISTRIES AND GIVING FAITHFULLY OF FINANCES "Serve one another with the particular gifts God has given each of you..." 1 Peter 4:10 "Each one of you, on the first day of each week, should set aside a specific sum of money in proportion to what you have earned and use it for the offering." 1 Cor. 16:2 "A tenth of all your produce is the Lord's, and it is holy." Lev. 27:30 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:45:31 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=472 When inviting people to join your Small Group, remember these key benefits: *You belong in God's family with other followers as well as with others who are seeking to know truth. "You are a member of God's very own family... and you belong in God's household with every other Christian." (Eph. 2:19) *You need the support of others to grow spiritually. "Let us think of one another and how we can encourage each other to love and do good deeds." (Hebrews 10:24) *You need the accountability of others to grow spiritually. "People learn from one another just as iron sharpens iron." (Proverbs 27:17) Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:39:04 MST http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.fsbctopeka.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=8 Whether it is your first time at FSBC, or you've been attending for years, you never know what to expect during our hour long contemporary service that begins each Sunday at 11:00 a.m. From the moment you walk in the door, until the moment you leave, we are committed to a creative, compelling, challenging presentation of God's truth. Pastor Clark focuses on how to apply Christ's teachings to your everyday life, so we each can experience God's incredible plan for our lives. The music, as led by the Christ First Worship Team & Praise Band, ranges from cutting-edge worship to treasured hymns. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:23:56 MST