The CEB Blog - September 2023

“And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus”  

(Acts 20:4). 

The period from September through November each year is typically packed with travels to local, regional or state associational meetings. We feel honored to report on the ministry at Bogard Press to the associations of the Lord’s churches. Each time, we are reminded of the beauty and blessings of gospel partnerships. Association meetings not only provide opportunities for churches to cooperate in the advancement of God’s kingdom through missions and ministries, but they also foster reunions and sweet fellowship. 

The apostle Paul was supported by several churches and travelled with some of their representatives to conduct the Lord’s business (Acts 20:4). The Lord’s churches also cooperated to raise funds for struggling churches in Judah, even electing individuals to handle the funds collected (2 Corinthians 8:18-24). The principle of free, cooperative association and equality among God’s churches was taught by Jesus and was clearly demonstrated in the early churches. 

  
While each church is fully equipped and authorized to do everything God requires, a cooperative fellowship of churches equal in representation regardless of size provides an avenue to accomplish even more for the advancement of God’s kingdom. “The history of the New Testament churches shows that associations have come into being when and where they were needed to serve the best interest of the churches” (I. K. Cross, What Is the American Baptist Association?).  

When the Lord’s churches cooperate through free associations, it is possible that more can be accomplished together than could be done individually. Together, churches of the American Baptist Association publish curriculum, support worldwide missionaries and ministries, operate seminaries, curate historical records of churches and encourage chaplaincies, auxiliaries and college ministries. One of the most sought-after benefits of associational work, though, is the encouragement we receive from like-minded brothers and sisters in Christ who inspire us to keep on laboring for the Lord. This Fall, I encourage you to participate in the associational meetings of which your church is part. Give and receive encouragement within the brotherhood and see how your heart is uplifted to resist weariness in the work of the Lord. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

 
Mark Clements 

Editor in Chief 

Bogard Press