About Us
Explanation: Historical Statement of Lord of Lords Bible Community Church
On March 1, 2005 our Church split away from the local United Methodist Church (UMC) because of the continual liberalization of the Denomination. The UMC has continued to embrace, encourage, and foster liberal issues. There is the strong belief that the Bible only contains the Word of God but is not the final say to the struggles of our day. Authority is not found in the scriptures but in the Book of Discipline, which is ultimately interpreted by the Bishop. The Bible has become a guide not the rule of faith and practice. This is not the heritage of the UMC. This new Methodism embraces the theology that the Bible testaments are not complete and that the Holy Spirit is writing a new witness in keeping with modern times. This is not the Christianity passed down to us from Jesus Christ and the Apostles. The Holy Spirit does speak and lead us today but will never contradict what is written. What has been the result of modern or liberal thinking? Most if not all of the mainline denominations have been in identity crises over what is right and what is wrong; what is authoritative and what is not. There is a general sense of apostasy, or falling away from the scripture’s teachings, by all of the mainline Churches. For example: under the Banner of UMC many things unbiblical are being espoused such as: Sofia (goddess) worship, the denial of Jesus’ deity, the denial of his unique atonement, denials of the virgin birth, Noah’s flood, the creation account, the reinterpretation of Sodom and Gomorrah, the discounting of the Mosaic law, anti-American, anti-west, and anti-Christian harangues from various leaders including bishops, Chairs of Agencies and Boards. Recently, 64 ministers in solidarity in the California Conference came together in civil disobedience to perform a same-sex marriage covenant in a UMC Church. This is in direct violation of the Book of Discipline. When 8 conservative ministers filed charges, an investigative committee assigned to the task dismissed the charges. All eight of these ministers have left the UMC. In Philadelphia, a lesbian minister living with her lover was put on trial: the verdict was 9 to 3 to convict her of violating the Book of Discipline. When the verdict to pronounce judgment was brought she was defrocked by one vote. This lapse in judgment and lack of conviction is pervasive among our elite leadership. In New Jersey several years back a situation in Medford arose where a minister tried to remove a practicing lesbian choir director or organist. The Conference’s answer was to re-appoint the minister. At an Elders meeting in the Greater New Jersey Conference several years back the Bishop lamented the Southern Baptists for declaring publicly that the Moslems needed to be converted. He said that we needed to convert only those without a religion—Only those who have no faith. In other words, Jesus is a way, not the way to the Father. Story after story could be recorded here but suffice it to say that the UMC has lost its way, abandoned its roots, and embraced the culture around it. It is more of an organization based and practiced upon the Book of Discipline and that loosely applied, than the Word of God. It is a Church of the “get along” or “go along” than the light and salt that Christ spoke about. This UMC Church is majoring in minors, straining at gnats and swallowing camels, as Jesus put it. In fact, the UMC has lost the major picture to embrace liberal and humanistic philosophy. We are not saying that everyone in the Church has done this. Nor are we saying that there are no Bible believing and preaching ministers in the UMC. What we are saying is that we no longer want to be under the Banner that includes, as “diversity,” things that ignore scripture, deny it, and reason it away—which is heresy and blasphemy. Not only that but allow and promote agendas that actually undermine our nations efforts—which are treasonous. Lord of Lords Bible Community Church has been the result of the mutual sense of the UMC’s theological abandonment of the Scriptures. Furthermore, it is the sense that those who are conservative and evangelical are not in keeping with new Methodism. Therefore, the minister and those who have felt the same, believing that God orchestrated and led this reforming, renewal, and revival of Biblical standards, have established a new Church. This Church does not want to be encumbered by the Trust Clause that UMC has placed upon all properties, thereby controlling the local Church. This Trust Clause means that the Conference owns and dictates the local Church property and use. Had this clause not existed, the liberalization would have been stopped because the local churches would have pulled away. Therefore, the UMC would not be in the decay it is experiencing for the past fifty to sixty years. This Church does not want to be committed to apportionments whereby tens of thousands of dollars are sent every year into the Conference to provide for its leadership and direction. Many of those leaders are liberal and many of those directions supplying funds to organizations that promote unbiblical stances. We want to know where are funds are going and we want them to benefit the true kingdom of God—that which is in agreement with the scriptures. Our intent is to become an independent nondenominational Church, Biblical, faithful to the teachings of scripture, protecting of the faith, securing the community, and proclaiming salvation in no other name than Jesus Christ. We are joining the many Churches who have separated before us for the same purpose. We seek God’s direction, humbly search for guidance, hold onto each other, and move forward to face our fallen world with a renewed sense of faithfulness to God. We recognize that we are not going to form a perfect Church; however, our dialog, our conflicts, our debates will remain based upon and within our understanding of scripture. We will not stray to embrace theologies, practices, or teachings that are contradictory to scripture. We seek to be in a new place where the Word of God is highly esteemed, worshipped, and practiced without the encumbrance of a liberal hierarchy.
Groups
Men’s Group
We have kept the faith. We have continued to study various books and address special moments with men coming to the meetings with whatever is on their minds. We have been listening to an DVD series from Andrew Wommack called "Hardness of Heart." We meet from house to house on Monday nights. We continue to pray for the men of the Church, ministries, and service opportunities. We look forward to special times when we just have fun—like the men’s outings, picnic, or summer bocce ball. I think I speak for all of the men when I say it is a pleasure to have spiritual friends like these guys. We often consider how to encourage other men to take the step of attending and of course invite them personally to make it out.
The purpose of the men’s group: To encourage spiritual life, friendship, discipleship, and support in an effort to raise the standard of what it means to be a man of God. We are informal yet purposeful giving opportunities for prayer, sharing, laughing, and serious inquiry if not debate. (1Ti 6:11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. AND 2Ti 3:17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.)
Taking Care of Our Own
“…making our community mean more than just words.”
Acts 4:32-35 “Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.”
There was great grace involved with this type of commitment to the love of God and each other. We are greatly challenged by such actions and in an attempt to be more like the early church we established this ministry. This past year your offerings have helped others in our congregation in the thousands of dollars. We don’t want to embarrass or divulge private affairs so the details on whom and how much is confidential; however, we have helped pay bills, health insurance, some housing, food, etc…
In the fact that our funds are not tied up in buildings we do have them available to help our own congregation members and friends. Even if our nation’s economic situation goes into a recession I would hope that you would feel some comfort in realizing that we will not let anyone sink, go hungry, or be without the necessities of life. Normally we do not ask questions for anyone’s first request (depending upon the amount) but follow up is generally applied to future supply and help. We come along side in order to be good stewards and help where we can in certain cases.
Youth Ministry
(What We Do...)
Our Youth groups are called Generation 4:12 & A.M.P.E.D. and are led by our youth director Rich Dugan. For more information click on their names and go to their web page.
LOL18-30 Young Adults (new)
Our young adults information is available by clicking on their name!
Bible Study
We especially have been pursuing, studying, and praying about healing. We have been discussing Andrew Wommack's materials especially the DVD series called, "God Wants You Well!" This subject has stirred our hearts and peaked our interest. We have had special prayer times and spontaneous worship. We have read E.W. Kenyon, F.F.. Bosworth, T.L. Osborn, and Smith Wigglesworth books on the subject as well.
Along with this subject we have engaged our understanding of the Holy Spirit and the Spirit’s gifts and graces. We have had lively debates and heart felt inquiry concerning God’s will and power. We earnestly desire the best gifts for our people and for reaching the lost. For God has promised to confirm His word with signs following. (2Ti 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.)
Presently we are discussing Andrew Wommack's DVD series on "The Believer's Authority."
Seek Him Time
(This has become a backbone for our Church's spiritual life)
One of the responses to our study on divine healing has been several sermons and a renewed interest in prayer. The time spent at Seek Him Time has been an encouragement to just about everyone involved. I can tell you that over the year these sessions have lifted me when I was down,or even discouraged at times. I look forward to getting together with like minded brothers and sisters in the Lord to pray, discuss, share, worship, meditate, sing, and pray some more…in seeking God’s life. I don’t know of anyone who has made the effort to come that hasn’t found community, belonging, spiritual life, encouragement, strength, and a sense of God’s purpose. (Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.)
Heart to Heart: Women's Group
Women of all ages come together to sing, pray, study and share their faith. The goal is to grow as women of faith. We want to move on from "milk" to solid food in the Word of God. "I have sught Your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise" Psalm 119:58 May we continue to seek His face with all our hearts. The group meets and then breaks into small cells in order to provide better opportunities for participation and discussion. A strick code of confidence is encouraged to help maintain a secure atmosphere.
Presently they are studying and discussing Joyce Myer's book, "The Battle for the Mind."
Ministry of Cooks
This is a unique ministry that offers meals to various people in need, especially those within the congregation. The purpose is to supply a well cooked, balanced meal of love. The effort is to communicate comfort and support not just in words but also in deeds. When someone is injured, sick, or has had surjery a team of cooks are scheduled to deliver meals sometimes for weeks. We don't just feed the spirit, minister to the soul, we also come along side to feed the body in a timely fashion. Anyone on the receiving side can tell you how much the meals are appreciated and how good they are. A team of some thirty cooks are always open from more. (1Pe 3:8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;)
Women's Service Group
We meet monthly to provide our new church not only with assistance in helping to organized group functions, but to also reach out into the community with service projects. The group organizes the refreshments for the Coffee hour after special events, collects needed items for various endevors such as Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets. Clothing and can goods drives for underpriviledged persons, and special needs for nursing homes, are some of the chosen directions of service. Their goal is to make a difference in many practical ways. (James 2:16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?)
Foundations Class
Those present always hold an interest and participate in biblical group discussion which encourages developement of their spiritual growth. This class focuses on foundational fundamentals of our faith while reading through the scriptures together. We never out grow these basics to the Christian walk. We will always need to practice and apply faith, prayer, fogiveness, trust in God's Word, the grace of God, to receive and give mercy, to abide in the Spirit, walk in the Spirit, receive and believe God's promises, study and meditate on God's Word for examples. We stir each other up in our faith by reminding ourselves of these things and then teaching and sharing them with others. (1Co 3:11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.)
Children's Adventure Hour
Our children gather together each Sunday after opening worship and praise, to enjoy lessons, skits, crafts, prayer, and praise. Two-four teachers per week share the responsibility and priviledge to encourage, teach and train our children in the Bible. We provide incentive programs for the children to bring and read their own Bibles, memorize scripture, and answer basic questions of our faith. We also reach out to their friends who don't attend church in order to help them know Jesus. The Children have engaged in fund raising for the Church future building, Delanco Camp, and other worthy projects. (Pr 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.)
Pastor
Pastor B. Dayle Tate and his wife Valerie are parents of four grown kids. Three are married and the youngest is attending Messiah College in Pa. (They have two grandchildren too!). A graduate of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ordained as an Elder in the UMC, Pastor Tate served 17 years in two churches. He is the founding pastor of Lord of Lords Bible Community Church. He grew up in the Assemblies of God, married in a Christian Missionary and Alliance Church, attended Abundant Life World Outreach Center (Word of Faith Church) until serving in the UMC.
Pastor Tate's emphasis in ministry is the building up of spiritual life in the church Discipleship and community are major themes. His exhortation style of preaching is motivated to help others "move on" with God. He balances his understanding of Scripture with: Tension Theology (See Link),
focusing on Salvation, being filled with Spirit, exercising gifts and operating in the grace of God, daily repentance, communion with God in worship & prayer...
Both Valerie & Dayle are Penn State Alumni
Discipleship
Mt 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
This passage doesn't just mean converts but true disciples...is this OPTIONAL?For many, the idea of being a disciple of Christ is optional because there are many truths. For those who choose Christianity it is sufficient. The emphasis on converts is simple belief. It is a salvation literally by FAITH alone without anything else required. Salvation is easy, simple, convenient, and not too much out of one’s way. Discipleship that requires far more is for those who want more but it is not necessary. What one needs to do minimally is merely believe. What is lost is the Biblical understanding of believing. Which in practice becomes mere acknowledgment of some fact or event more of an intellectual faith. They acknowledge salvation and may become born again but it does not penetrate to the heart. For those who have been born again the trap then becomes that a disciple is just a believer!I want to present to you that there is another side to this issue like there is another side to a coin. Listen to this verse: Luke 14:27 “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me is not worthy of Me." If then believing is all that is necessary we don't need to be worried if we cannot be Jesus' disciple? We can believe and be baptized and we can make it to heaven without having to be a disciple of Jesus. The danger however is in not knowing exactly if one’s sa The believer is playing a game with his/her soul by living to self but claiming Jesus is Lord. Matt. 10:39 "And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. "He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” If this has your curriosity you'd better check out "Believers or Diciples" | ||||||
About Us, Meetings, and Activities
Highly Esteeming the Word of God
This means we fully embrace the Bible as THE word of God, inspired from the very first verse until the last. It has been faithfully maintained and passed down to us from the Prophets (Old & New Testament), and the Apostles through the work of the Holy Spirit. The following is taken from our Constitution on Beliefs:Of the Holy Scriptures.
We believe the Holy Bible is the Word of God, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, is inerrant in the original languages, is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…and is the only true source of salvation through Jesus Christ. The Word of God instructs us about our fallen world, God’s salvation plan, the truth, the human sin condition, the beginning and end of the age. It is true theologically and historically from the very first verse to the last. The Bible is the rule of our faith and contains all we need to know about God’s will for our lives, His grace and mercy, His justice and holiness, and His revelation to Humanity. We believe that God has marked the Bible as authentic by the many thorough, accurate, and historically provable Prophecies contained in almost every book of the Bible. Furthermore, we believe that a second authenticating phenomenon is the miracles, signs, and wonders contained in the scriptures performed by the prophets and especially Jesus Christ. No other book contains such proofs of God’s hand in its writing, in its message, and in its central figure—Jesus Christ. We believe that the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (66 books) contain all that we need to know of God’s plan of salvation—there is no need for another. (II Tim. 3:16; John 14:6; Luke 4:4; Rom. 3:4; John 21:24,24; John 4:48; Acts 2:43; Matt. 16:16)(T.L. Osborn from Healing the Sick page 115)
THE AUTHORITY OF GOD’S WORD
"Many times theologians have not been our friends. They have made philosophy of the truth; they have turned the word into a dogma and creed when it should have been as though the Master were here speaking to us.The word speaks to us as Jesus would if He were visibly among us. It takes His place. It has the same authority as He would have if He were to appear before us. When we pick up the Bible, it would be good to remember that it is book with God and life in it.The word is always now. It has been, it is and it will be the voice of God. It is never old. It is always fresh and new. To the heart that is in fellowship with God, the word is God’s living voice.The word of God is like its Author eternal, unchanging, and liv¬ing. The word is the mind of God, the will of God.The word is God speaking. It is a part of God Himself. It abides forever. God and His word are one. Jesus was the word, and He lives in me. I read the word; I feed on the word; and the word lives in me. When I want more of Him, I feed on His word. If I want to know more of Him, I learn more of His word. I hold His word in my hand. I have it in my heart. I have it on my lips.I live it. It lives in me.
The word is my healing and my strength. It is the bread of life to me. It is the very ability of God in me. The word is the life of Christ. All He is, His word is.The word is my confession. It is my light and my salvation. It is my rest and my pillow.The word gives me quietness in the midst of confusion and victory in the midst of defeat. It gives me joy where desolation reigns."
See "Can We Trust the Bible?" Slidepresentation
See "Two Proofs"
We are "refugees" from a major denomination that removed ourselves from the continued (liberal) drifting away from the Bible.
Many things were being proclaimed as truth under diversity that in fact disregarded the witness of scripture altogether. Therefore, we, highly esteeming the Word of God, established a new outpost based upon the inerrant Scriptures. We are a non-denominational spirit filled and driven church, Weslyan in foundation. We are emphasIzing salvation, genuine community, fellowship of the Holy Spirit, and service to God and each other. Our purpose: For everyone to find a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (to know God)--salvation in being born again in the Spirit; for everyone to find connection, support, and genuine fellowship in the family of God; for everyone to find a place of service, understand who we are in Christ, and exercise the gifts of grace bestowed in Jesus' name. We at Lord of Lords Bible Community Church do not want to waist our time or spin our wheels pretending to be spiritual people (Gal. 5:1). We are putting first things first, it’s not a social club although we do social things; it’s not a popularity gathering where the majority votes and we try to please everyone. No, we are stressing and staying a course that highly esteems the Word of God, seeks to be filled by the Holy Spirit, and focuses our efforts on what matters most to the Lord: Salvation of souls and discipleship--The Great Commssion (Mark 16:15 & 16; Matt. 28:19).
Lord of Lords Bible Community Church office is located at 32 Clearwater Drive, Waretown NJ 08758. Our Church phone is 609/971-9700 or email us at Lordsbcc@hotmail.com
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Focus on the Family
Answers in Genesis
Delanco Camp
Gospel Truth with
Andrew Wommack
Joyce Myers
Others...
