CEO's Report - September 2023

BSSC CEO’s August 1, 2023  Report:

            The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, “The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments” (2 Timothy 4:13). Paul probably had various writings and documents with him, but he instructed Timothy to bring with him these certain writings. Although we do not know the content of these writings, we should recognize that Paul considered them unique and important. The writings produced through the Bogard Press, such as, Sunday School materials, various topical materials, and VBS materials are likewise unique and important. They are so because they uniquely follow the Doctrinal Statement of the American Baptist Association voted on by the churches, which itself is a unique and special document because it is based on and in harmony with Bible teachings. Only materials produced by ABA churches can make this claim. Only Bogard Press, as a publishing house, can make this claim. As churches search for literature and lesson materials to be used in their Bible classes, they should consider the importance of using that which can be soundly associated with Bible doctrine. If the young people of our churches are to be indoctrinated in truth, we must be careful what we choose to use for literature, whether in Sunday School or VBS. Jesus said, “Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols” Revelation 2:20. What the churches were teaching mattered to Jesus, and it ought to matter to us.

            I recently had the privilege of attending the Northeast Louisiana MB Association. I look forward in September to visiting some of the Lord’s churches in Texarkana, visitor’s day at the Louisiana Seminary, and church events with my wonderful church at Magnolia. Also, the Baptist Sunday School Committee will be visiting in Texarkana, September 21 and 22.

            Bogard Press will be having an Educational Seminar September 23rd at Northern Hill BC in Texarkana. We sincerely thank Northern Hills church for their kindness and giving spirit. The Seminar will be Saturday AM for in-person or on-line attendance. Church groups may gather at their own facilities and enjoy this important time of learning.

            The work at Texarkana is going well. The sales and finances are steady and normal for the summer months. Please feel free to come visit anytime, and especially the bookstore. Please let us know how we can better serve you.

 J.A. Crain