Guest Viewpoints

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An Open Letter to S.C. Baptist Pastors and Leaders

In Colossians 4:3, the Apostle Paul shared a prayer request that “God would open a door for the Word.” The current coronavirus pandemic may very well be one of the greatest opportunities for Gospel witness we have had since... Continue Reading »

What Will the Post-Coronavirus Church Look Like?

Church leaders and members are rightly giving much attention to dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. In-person church services are being canceled. Small groups are meeting digitally, if at all. Church leaders are urging members to support the church financially... Continue Reading »

3 Ways to Harness Social Media to the Glory of God

Social media can be an awesome tool, but it can also be a terrible temptation. It’s a mixed bag that gives people a platform to say whatever they want — the good, the bad, and the ugly — whenever... Continue Reading »

Rural Ministry: Reasons rural, small-town churches are making a comeback

The obituaries of rural and small-town churches are premature. Indeed, we continue to see clear evidence of hope and promise for both the churches and the communities. While the need is still great in the cities and more urban... Continue Reading »

Guest Viewpoint: Life, Loss, and God’s Goodness

Writer: Lori Bova In November 1999, my husband and I found out that we were expecting our first baby. My pregnancy was textbook. I felt wonderful and was continually amazed at the life that was growing inside my womb.... Continue Reading »

Sanctity of Human Life: It’s Time for South Carolina to Catch the Pro-Life Wave

There is a pro-life wave sweeping through conservative state legislatures from Kentucky to Texas and from Georgia to North Dakota. Pro-life advocates in multiple states are pushing for a ban on all abortions after a baby’s heartbeat is detected.... Continue Reading »

Guest Perspective: In Vitro Fertilization — What Every Christian Should Know

In the following dialogue, Mary and Charles represent a composite of my patients who have struggled with infertility. Many couples never have money or consistent insurance coverage to pursue an infertility evaluation. However, after years of saving, they finally... Continue Reading »

Why do Baptists hold Vacation Bible Schools?

Why do we have Vacation Bible School every year in so many churches across our state? Are we just trying to entertain our children during the hot summer days? No, we expend so much time, energy, prayers, and creativity... Continue Reading »

Bringing Spiritual Refreshment, Ministry Challenge for 150 Years

For 150 years, The Courier has been telling not only the news of South Carolina Baptists but also the Good News of the gospel of Jesus Christ! A friend of mine who serves in a denominational role in another... Continue Reading »

The Value of The Baptist Courier from a Personal Perspective

As far back as I can remember, I have appreciated The Baptist Courier as a vital contributor and supporter of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Let me explain. My hometown is Hartsville in Darlington County, where I was born... Continue Reading »

Under the Mango Tree: Reflections on Two Weeks in Uganda

Under a mango tree in Hoima, Uganda, roughly 100 children gathered, eagerly waiting for Vacation Bible School to begin. Sixteen short-term missionaries from the United States had traveled there to minister to these children and their families. Their sacrifices... Continue Reading »

Guest Viewpoint: No Better Place to Fish

One of my dad’s favorite pastimes was fishing. He rarely caught anything big, but he loved to go to the lake or a river, or a stream, and “drown a worm.” I have a nice bass on my wall... Continue Reading »