BIBTF I News and Notices

THANKSGIVING DAY 2010

BIBTF Thanksgiving Day was marked by two special services and a book
launch held at Orange Street Congregational Church, London on
Saturday 16th October 2010.


We were delighted to welcome over 60 people to the special 2010 BIBTF Thanksgiving Day services held in central London. Many had again travelled long distances (including individuals from the West Country, the North of England and Northern Ireland). Despite the ongoing difficult financial climate there is still so much to thank God for, and the total number attending showed a significant increase compared with 2009. We did miss several of our long standing members and regular supporters, but were able to pray for them during the day.
	It was encouraging to see a good spread of all ages, with young and old from eight months to those in their eighties present. The crypt was available for children to play or sleep, and this made the day easier for several parents who brought their little ones along. It was a particular pleasure to welcome a good number attending for the first time. Many said how much they were blessed by the solid teaching and warm fellowship, and not a few thought it was the best Thanksgiving Day for years.
The first service (12.00-1.15 pm) chaired by BIBTF Secretary Mr Paul Boyd-Lee was addressed by Mr John Roberts - recent Director of Day One Christian Ministries. He presented an update on the Sabbath and Sunday legislation in our land, and then went on to emphasise the essential link between belief in God as Creator and as Lord of the Sabbath based on the first chapters of Genesis in the Bible.
This was followed by a lively session in which he answered questions from the congregation for about 20 minutes. His powerful and forthright ministry was greatly appreciated, and the chairman led the meeting in praying for him and Day One Christian Ministries, as he had to travel on to another engagement.
	A free buffet lunch was served in the crypt where a good selection of literature was available on the bookstall throughout the day (some free – including copies of the latest issue of Bible Truth magazine, Issue 260 Oct-Dec 2010). In addition copies of quite a few good second hand books on various biblical and prophetic topics were on offer. These were unpriced and available free or for any donation thought appropriate. This was clearly seen as a useful service as they all went to new homes.
The afternoon session (2.15-4.15 pm) was also chaired by BIBTF Secretary Mr Paul Boyd-Lee. We were delighted to welcome back Pastor Alan Campbell (who leads Open Bible Ministries) who spoke on 'Pirates and Prophecy'. His interesting lecture focused on the promise to Abraham that 'thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies' (Gen 22: 17) and its historical fulfilment in key coastal locations around the world, as Israel spread abroad 'to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south:' (Gen 28: 14) just as God foretold.
This word was much appreciated especially as the speaker came from Northern Ireland despite problems with his eyesight. We thank God for bringing the words to his memory, and for Alan's tenacity in flying to London.
	A Thanksgiving Day offering was received during the singing of a hymn. We thank all those who supported the work in this way. Following this the chairman introduced Dr Michael Bennett (BIBTF President) and asked him to speak about his new book 'The Exodus', published by Bible Truth Publishers, which was being launched as part of the Thanksgiving Day Conference programme. The author explained the need for a book on this vital subject, which marks the start of Israel's long history as a servant nation chosen by God, and invited everyone to help celebrate its official launch day.
A concluding address entitled 'The Word, the Witness and the World' followed. The President reminded those present that God was free to choose whoever He wanted to receive and communicate His truth. Yet no Scripture was given until God had a nation, and then He chose only men He appointed to rule Israel (as prophet, priest, king or Apostles) to write, edit or communicate it. There was an unbreakable link between Israel's rulers and the gift of Scripture to mankind, and this was continued in the giving of the King James Bible whose 400th anniversary will be celebrated in May 2011.

[NB. An article on this topic is planned to appear in the April-June issue 262 of Bible Truth magazine.]

As is our custom the afternoon service was concluded with the Aaronic blessing before most were able to stay on for the book signing session and tea served in the crypt to celebrate the publication and launch of 'The Exodus' at which cakes decorated with the cover design were consumed.

Many thanks again to all those who helped with food, literature, music and in other ways to make the day enjoyable and run smoothly.

Numbers 6: 23-27
‘… On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them,
The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.’

God willing we look forward to meeting again at Orange Street on 14 May 2011 for our AGM and Bible convention. Please put this date in your diary now if you hope or plan to come, and please pray for God’s blessing on it. Watch this site for details of meeting times, speakers and titles to be announced. Please try and bring a friend. If everyone brings one extra friend we will have over 100 next time!