First Notes: Born to Bloom

Dear First Baptist Family, 

When God called you and gave you salvation, you were “born again” (see John 3:3). It was your second birth, and the image is a dynamic one. A baby needs milk to grow — basic nutrients — and lots of attention and care. So it is with every believer in Jesus who begins a new life.

As we grow up, we still need love and nurturing, but we haven’t been created to be spiritual babies. Here are just a few examples that convey that truth:

Paul wrote, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways” (1 Corinthians 13:11, ESV).

He also counseled the Ephesians to grow in maturity into the “fullness of Christ” so that “we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ” (4:14-15 ESV).

The writer of Hebrew says, “Let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment…” (6:1-3, ESV). 

One of my favorites is the simplest: “…grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18, NIV). 

In short, you and I were created to be cultivated. We were fashioned to flourish. We were born to bloom!

Here are three things our church is actively doing and offering to help us grow as disciples who bear fruit for Christ’s kingdom.

Midweek Pause Disciple Classes

Last week we had a strong start to our midweek classes. People seem to really enjoy a smaller setting in an opportunity to learn together. Our current offerings include:

1. Christian Politics: Theology and Practice - Led by Brent McDougal | Blue Room

This study explores Biblical guidance on political engagement, equipping Christians to engage faithfully in public life without compromising convictions or fueling division.

2. The Book of Job - Led by Josh Gibson | Room 304

This class dives deep into one of the most thought provoking books of the Old Testament as the text of Job confronts the popular theology of its day.

3. Immerse Bible Study: Prophets - Led by Paul Bagai | Conference Room

Immerse encourages people in daily Bible reading, then brings people together to talk about the scripture and hear from the Holy Spirit. You can pick up your free Immerse Bible today in either Trentham Hall or in the Welcome Center.

4. Compassionaries - Led by David Crocker | Trentham Hall

What is the heart of a servant leader? How do you put your faith into action on behalf of the least of these consistently? Those are important questions to explore for those who want to put their faith into action. 

Children's choir and missions also take place at the same time. There's something for your whole family as we enjoy a good meal together from 5 to 6, then take part in a learning experience that can help you to grow in your faith. 

Discipleship Weekend with Bob Rognlien

This weekend, February 6 (6:00-8:30) and February 7 (9:00-3:00), offers powerful teaching, connection, and spiritual growth. The $25 cost (payable on February 6 at the event) covers The Jesus-Shaped Way book, meals, and childcare for ages Birth–12.

You can make a spiritual investment by coming for this insightful weekend. You'll be challenged in your faith and given helpful tools to keep your spiritual growth going in 2026. You'll also learn how to be a more effective disciple in the places where you live, work, and play. 

Search for our next Children’s Minister Continues

The search team for our next Children’s Minister has been meeting regularly to review resumes, strategize for how to find the right person, and conduct initial interviews. We're making good progress, but we need your prayers. Susan Tatum did an excellent job and has left some tough shoes to fill. But we know God has someone wonderful in store for our church who will bless our children and families especially. 

In the meantime, Jama Mosher is serving as our interim children's minister. I loved her children’s sermon yesterday with the raisins, although it's hard to imagine Jama stealing something (we’ll give her a pass since it happened when she was 3 years old). 

Pray for Jama and as you are able, lend a hand. We need lots of volunteers for Eggstravaganza and VBS. Pray also for the person who will serve on our staff permanently. 

Let's commit to growing in 2026. God wants you to bloom. God wants our church to flourish. By God's grace, we will. 

With love, 

Pastor Brent McDougal