Fruit of the Spirit

For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth...Eph 5:9

Winter 2004                                                            Volume 5, Issue 1

I was in prison, and ye came unto me... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Matt. 25:36,40 Prison Report

By Ted Parks (Guest Editorial)

Fifty-one men were baptized at Folsom Prison’s Greystone Chapel during 2003. A number of them have already been released or transferred to another facility. We must pray that they were building upon the right foundation and will carry with them their faith wherever they may go.

I have known of many who were transferred to other places who then began to use completed and corrected Bible correspondence courses as guides for conducting Bible studies and teaching others about the Lord and His plan of salvation. I have heard of men being baptized as a direct result and have actually come into contact and had the opportunity to work with some of these. I remember one man in particular who was very zealous for the Lord. He was willing and had the ability to participate in all aspects of acceptable worship.

I must thank the Fir Street congregation for the very successful efforts, which are being put forth toward reaching those who are incarcerated. Bible correspondence courses are being sent widely throughout the United States and also, I believe, into some areas abroad. Those studies have directly contributed to the baptisms of several men here in Folsom. Many who have been baptized are continuing their spiritual education at least in part with these courses.

I cannot over emphasize the value of these studies of the Bible through the mail. They can go to places, which we might not ever be able to go. They are non-threatening and will be studied by many that would not be willing to sit down with any of us for a study. They can be utilized during brief convenient times whereas it might not be convenient to try to set aside an hour or so for a more formal study.

The John M. Hurt 8-1esson course is one of the best available and covers some very important topics including baptism. Of course, there are many others available, which also contain excellent material for the

Christian and the non-Christian. Let me urge those of you who are reading this report to consider using BCC's in your personal or congregational outreach.

I smile as I recall an occasion when going door to door seeking to enroll students for the BCC. As I knocked upon the door, a woman, probably in her early thirties, answered. I explained why I was there, to which she responded, “Oh, I have a degree in Bible from such and such college.” I hesitated only briefly and then asked her if she would do the course and provide us with an evaluation!

Some congregations might be interested in sending well-written applications to Chaplains at various correctional facilities asking them if they would place them in an appropriate location in order that the inmates might utilize them if they are interested in being part of such a study. Explain what you are offering and provide the address of the congregation to which they are to be sent. The application should provide space for the name of the institution, the inmate’s name, CDC number, housing location, city, state and zip code. It would be a good idea to ask the inmate to print. I have sample copies of an application which I use here and also a copy of a proposed letter to the Chaplain if any one would like to receive them, just contact me through the Vacaville church of Christ, 401 Fir Street, Vacaville, CA. 95688 or as explained elsewhere in this FOTS.

Jesus said, “Be ye wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” Let us remember this principle as we seek to take the message of salvation to a lost generation. If I can answer any questions about prison work or scripture, please let me hear from you. Best wishes for a happy and healthy new year in serving the Lord!

I was in prison, and ye came unto me... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Matt. 25:36,40

Inside...
Page 1 - Does Our Law Judge A Man... | Page 2 - Where In The Bible Will I Find...
Page 3 - Prison Report | Page 4 - Old Testament Studies | Page 5 - Is God Unconstitutional? Part 1
Page 6 - Indwelling of the Holy Spirit, Part 1 | Page 7 - Christian Evidences | Page 8 - Modest Apparel
Page 9 - The Christian Home | Page 10 - Continuations | Page 11 - The Children's Page
Page 12 - Announcements / Continuations

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