Rev. David Holwick O
First Baptist Church
Ledgewood, New Jersey
April 28, 1991
Romans 12:10-16
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I. Our purpose in going.
A. We went to be servants of the Dominicans.
"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.
Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:10
"Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be
willing to associate with people of low position.
Do not be conceited." Romans 12:16
1) We tried to show brotherly love.
a) The Dominicans were dirt-poor.
1> -Asked for shoes, shirts off our back.
2> -We were afraid Jeff Lindsey would come back naked.
2) We also got along well with each other.
B. We went to learn what missions is all about first-hand.
1) Missions became alive and personable.
2) ABC missions are doing significant work for pittance.
3) Makes me excited about opportunities around us.
II. Dominican Church is serious about discipleship.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
Romans 12:12
A. High view of holiness.
1) Prayer on knees before services; before offering at front.
2) Real Christians don't disco, have mistresses, smoke, drink.
B. Barrier for potential converts.
1) Local believer's daughter, Josephina.
a) Wanted to dance, wear makeup, date non-Christians.
2) Polio victim.
a) Responded to Tom Lipsey's altar call, but wouldn't give
up drinking.
C. Strictness makes Christians distinctive.
1) No middle ground.
2) Therefore few baptisms, but disciples are dedicated.
III. Hospitality of Dominicans.
"Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
Romans 12:13
A. Strangers invited us into their homes.
1) (Anhel's aunt milling corn in backyard)
B. They smiled a lot, shouted "Glory!" and "Hallelujah!".
C. Alba fixed the foods we liked, such as fresh pineapple.
IV. Rejoicing and weeping.
"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."
Romans 12:15
A. Rejoicing.
1) Dominicans love choruses and clapping. (and noise!)
2) Lively services with much participation.
B. Weeping.
1) Most are familiar with tragedy at the beach.
a) Young Edwin drowned.
2) Dominicans grieved openly, and en masse.
a) The Christians grieved differently - no superstition.
b) Grandma Erma stood firm for her convictions.
c) Emphasized that life is short.
V. Courage in witnessing.
"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor,
serving the Lord." Romans 12:11
A. Foreman Elpedio came to service on Friday night.
1) Not yet a Christian.
B. Day after funeral, at airport, asked to witness to Lawrence.
1) He was receptive to gospel, yet resistant.
a) Father-in-law a Christian.
b) Wife and friends were non-Christian.
2) He wanted more time to think.
a) I told him of burial of Edwin.
3) I prayed with Lawrence.
a) He wept and hugged us.
VI. What the trip should mean to you in Ledgewood.
A. Our thanks to all who promoted the trip and gave to it.
1) Matt Wells was able to go only because of last minute
assistance.
B. Our efforts are bearing much fruit.
1) Money is well-spent.
2) The Dominican workers are dedicated.
C. But much remains to be done.
1) Consider going yourself.
2) What can you do in your own neighborhood to witness about
Jesus?
Copyright © 2024 by Rev. David Holwick
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