by Chris Steele

January 14, 2007

On January 15-18 we will have an opportunity to join Christian brothers and sisters from around the country at the 32nd Annual Florida School of Preaching Lectureship. This program is well known and respected throughout the brotherhood. How fortunate we are to live close enough that it is not a burden for many of us to travel over to Lakeland and spend a day or more in this uplifting fellowship.

The congregation here has been helping in the support of the Florida School of Preaching for over 23 years. Of course, as an alumni (1979), the school holds a very special place in my heart.

We have had numerous students and instructors preach from our pulpit through the years. The late B. C. Carr (Founder and former Director), Jackie Stearsman (current Director), Brian Kenyon (Associate Director), Gene Burgett (Director of Public Relations), are among those who have been with us on various occasions.

Only God knows the good that has been done in this world for the cause of Christ because of the efforts of the Florida School of Preaching through the years. And because of our support (we have been a part, and continue to be a part) of that great work.

If you are unable to get over to Lakeland next week, and you have access to the Internet, tune in at www.fsop.net for live broadcasts of all the lessons throughout each day and evening. You can schedule your listening by checking the bulletin board for the days and times of the speakers and topics. The theme this year, "Do You Understand the God of the Bible?," no doubt will prove to be a classic. The lectureship is printed in a beautiful hardcover book. A CD is also available which includes lectureship books from 1998-2007. Check with the school paper, The Harvester.