Blog https://www.excellbc.org Sun, 13 Sep 2026 01:22:07 -0400 https://www.churchplantmedia.com/ January 22, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-22-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-22-2025#comments Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:35:25 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-22-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
As you all know, we are expecting severe weather this weekend. In light of the impending snow, I'm working with the deacon body to determine whether or not we will have church this Sunday. A final decision will be made this Saturday at 5 PM. Please check your email around this time. I will try to provide an update on our Facebook page and our church website as well. 
If we do hold services as scheduled, we want to emphasize that your safety is our top priority. We encourage each of you to use your best judgment about whether to attend in person based on your comfort level with traveling in the weather conditions. 
Please monitor local weather reports and road conditions Saturday evening and Sunday morning. If you decide it's best to stay home, we completely understand and support that decision.
If we do have service and our Audio/Visual Team and I are able to make it to the church, we will have a livestream service available. If for some reason we're unable to livestream a service, let me encourage you to watch the livestream service led by one of my friends and mentors, Scott Patty, pastor of Grace Community Church in Brentwood, TN. You should be able to livestream their service through this link: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8904111
Announcements
  • Constitution & ByLaws – As you all know, I have been working alongside the deacon body to develop our new constitution and bylaws. We have been working on this document for many months, and we have finally completed the process. Now, I'm happy to provide them to you for your review (see attached). Hardcopies are available on the church kiosk in the foyer. Here are a few important dates that you will want to remember.
    • Sunday, February 8 – Immediately after our worship service, we will have a catered lunch & discussion related to the ByLaws. If any changes need to take place after this meeting, we will proceed accordingly.
    • Wednesday, February 11 – Assuming no major revisions need to be done to the ByLaws that will cause a delay, we will vote on the proposed ByLaws at our regularly scheduled Members Meeting.
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee has recommended Pat Van Dyke as our Music Minister Candidate. We had a Q & A session with Pat this past Sunday, and the original plan was to vote on Pat this coming Sunday. However, because of the weather, we will delay the vote until February 1. We will meet immediately after the worship service for a congregational vote on this date. 
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday night we will be having a prayer service together. I hope you will join us!
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Thank You Letter – Pastor Will Binkley from Lone Oak Baptist Church sent me a thank you letter that his son, Bryant, wrote to our church. He is part of Youth in Action that meets at our church. How encouraging to see the difference that our church was able to make in one young man's life!
  • Prayer List – Please see the prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
As you all know, we are expecting severe weather this weekend. In light of the impending snow, I'm working with the deacon body to determine whether or not we will have church this Sunday. A final decision will be made this Saturday at 5 PM. Please check your email around this time. I will try to provide an update on our Facebook page and our church website as well. 
If we do hold services as scheduled, we want to emphasize that your safety is our top priority. We encourage each of you to use your best judgment about whether to attend in person based on your comfort level with traveling in the weather conditions. 
Please monitor local weather reports and road conditions Saturday evening and Sunday morning. If you decide it's best to stay home, we completely understand and support that decision.
If we do have service and our Audio/Visual Team and I are able to make it to the church, we will have a livestream service available. If for some reason we're unable to livestream a service, let me encourage you to watch the livestream service led by one of my friends and mentors, Scott Patty, pastor of Grace Community Church in Brentwood, TN. You should be able to livestream their service through this link: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8904111
Announcements
  • Constitution & ByLaws – As you all know, I have been working alongside the deacon body to develop our new constitution and bylaws. We have been working on this document for many months, and we have finally completed the process. Now, I'm happy to provide them to you for your review (see attached). Hardcopies are available on the church kiosk in the foyer. Here are a few important dates that you will want to remember.
    • Sunday, February 8 – Immediately after our worship service, we will have a catered lunch & discussion related to the ByLaws. If any changes need to take place after this meeting, we will proceed accordingly.
    • Wednesday, February 11 – Assuming no major revisions need to be done to the ByLaws that will cause a delay, we will vote on the proposed ByLaws at our regularly scheduled Members Meeting.
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee has recommended Pat Van Dyke as our Music Minister Candidate. We had a Q & A session with Pat this past Sunday, and the original plan was to vote on Pat this coming Sunday. However, because of the weather, we will delay the vote until February 1. We will meet immediately after the worship service for a congregational vote on this date. 
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday night we will be having a prayer service together. I hope you will join us!
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Thank You Letter – Pastor Will Binkley from Lone Oak Baptist Church sent me a thank you letter that his son, Bryant, wrote to our church. He is part of Youth in Action that meets at our church. How encouraging to see the difference that our church was able to make in one young man's life!
  • Prayer List – Please see the prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
]]> January 15, 2026 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-15-2026 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-15-2026#comments Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:35:54 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-15-2026
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
Have you ever had a situation where you had to suffer because of someone else's poor decisions? Sadly, the Bible is full of situations like this. One Biblical figure who was in a situation like this was Hagar. Hagar was the servant of Abram's wife, Sarai. Sadly, Sarai was unable to have children. Yet God had promised that her husband Abram would have a son and descendants as numerous as the stars (Gen. 15:1-6).
As time passed and God's promise remained unfulfilled, instead of waiting on the Lord, Sarai decided to take matters into her own hands. She decided to give her servant Hagar to her husband Abram so that she could have a child by means of her servant. In their effort to "help God out," Sarai and Abram completely disregarded what God said about marital fidelity (Gen. 1:27-28; 2:18-25). They tried to manufacture results instead of waiting on God's timing. As a result, a child was born out of wedlock by Hagar. What a sad, messy situation.
Whenever we try to achieve godly goals without following God's Word, chaos always follows. In this case, Sarai became jealous of Hagar and began to treat her so harshly that Hagar had to flee (Gen. 16:6). Sadly, this ungodly behavior was encouraged by Abram. In all of this, Hagar was a victim. Hagar's masters forced her into a difficult situation, and then, once they had to face the consequences of their sin, they abused Hagar. As a result, Hagar was left to die all alone in the wilderness with her child.
But, mercifully, we're told that "the angel of the Lord found her", gave her direction, and promised to bless her (Gen. 16:7-10). After this encounter, Hagar said, "You are a God of seeing...Truly I have seen him who looks after me" (Gen 16:13). As Hagar found out, we learn the most about God's character as we go through suffering. Through Hagar's trials, she learned that God is the God who looks after her. Whatever you may be going through, take comfort in the fact that our God sees and that He looks after you as well. Look to him for help in the midst of your trouble.
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Wednesday Nights – We will be meeting in the coffee area next Wednesday night at 5:30 PM for Bible study. I hope you will join us!
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee pleased to present Pat Van Dyke as a Music Minister candidate. Pat will lead worship on January 18 and 25 in view of a call. We will have a Q & A with him this Sunday immediately following our worship service, and we will vote on him immediately after our worship service on January 25.
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Church Documents – Please see the prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
Have you ever had a situation where you had to suffer because of someone else's poor decisions? Sadly, the Bible is full of situations like this. One Biblical figure who was in a situation like this was Hagar. Hagar was the servant of Abram's wife, Sarai. Sadly, Sarai was unable to have children. Yet God had promised that her husband Abram would have a son and descendants as numerous as the stars (Gen. 15:1-6).
As time passed and God's promise remained unfulfilled, instead of waiting on the Lord, Sarai decided to take matters into her own hands. She decided to give her servant Hagar to her husband Abram so that she could have a child by means of her servant. In their effort to "help God out," Sarai and Abram completely disregarded what God said about marital fidelity (Gen. 1:27-28; 2:18-25). They tried to manufacture results instead of waiting on God's timing. As a result, a child was born out of wedlock by Hagar. What a sad, messy situation.
Whenever we try to achieve godly goals without following God's Word, chaos always follows. In this case, Sarai became jealous of Hagar and began to treat her so harshly that Hagar had to flee (Gen. 16:6). Sadly, this ungodly behavior was encouraged by Abram. In all of this, Hagar was a victim. Hagar's masters forced her into a difficult situation, and then, once they had to face the consequences of their sin, they abused Hagar. As a result, Hagar was left to die all alone in the wilderness with her child.
But, mercifully, we're told that "the angel of the Lord found her", gave her direction, and promised to bless her (Gen. 16:7-10). After this encounter, Hagar said, "You are a God of seeing...Truly I have seen him who looks after me" (Gen 16:13). As Hagar found out, we learn the most about God's character as we go through suffering. Through Hagar's trials, she learned that God is the God who looks after her. Whatever you may be going through, take comfort in the fact that our God sees and that He looks after you as well. Look to him for help in the midst of your trouble.
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Wednesday Nights – We will be meeting in the coffee area next Wednesday night at 5:30 PM for Bible study. I hope you will join us!
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee pleased to present Pat Van Dyke as a Music Minister candidate. Pat will lead worship on January 18 and 25 in view of a call. We will have a Q & A with him this Sunday immediately following our worship service, and we will vote on him immediately after our worship service on January 25.
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Church Documents – Please see the prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
]]> January 8th 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-8th-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-8th-2025#comments Sun, 11 Jan 2026 11:26:22 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/january-8th-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
Anxiety is something that every one of us experiences. It's a common human emotion that we need to learn how to deal with as Christians. On the surface, it seems that anxiety is about the things that we fear, but in reality, it's deeper than that. Anxiety is actually about what we love. When we have anxiety, it's usually because we feel like something we love is being threatened. It may be a relationship, our children, our job, or our reputation.
One question we must ask is, "Is my anxiety based on truth or fantasy?" So many times in my life I've been anxious because of a scenario I've created in my head that wasn't based in reality at all. And other times we're anxious because we devote too much mental energy to things that are simply outside of our control. David Tucker, the pastor I served under at Second Baptist Church, used to tell me about people that were "living in his head rent free." I'm sure you know the feeling. 
There are, however, many legitimate threats that produce fear in our hearts: people who can harm us, relationships that can end, health diagnoses that scare us. To combat anxiety in these circumstances, we need to ask God to help us to look to Him instead of dwelling on the person or situation that makes us worry.
Another question to ask is this: "Is my anxiety reflecting God's priority?" There are some things that we spin over and over in our minds that simply shouldn't have as much of a grip on us as they do. In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us that there are certain things we simply shouldn't be anxious about. He tells us to not be anxious about "what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" (v. 25). 
If we're anxious about these things, it's because we value them too much. It's not that these things aren't important, but God simply doesn't want our priorities to be improperly weighted. He wants us to be much more consumed with Him and His kingdom than on temporary things such as food, drink, and clothing. This is why He tells us to "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" (v. 33). And His wonderful promise to us is that when we prioritize what God Himself prioritizes, then "all these things will be added to you." 
As we go into this New Year together, I'm praying that God would help us all to think on things that are true, lovely, and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8), and that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:7).
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Wednesday Nights – Please join us tonight in the coffee area as we conclude our study on the Ten Commandments! Next Wednesday we'll have our monthly Members Meeting and potluck meal.
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee has identified a Music Minister candidate that they would like to present to the church for consideration. This candidate will lead worship on January 18 and 25. We will have a Q & A with the candidate on January 18 immediately following our worship service, and we will vote on the candidate immediately after our worship service on January 25.
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Men's Breakfast – Our first men's breakfast of the year will take place this Saturday at 8 AM in the fellowship hall. All men are invited!
  • Church Documents – Please see the attached Member's Meeting agenda for next Wednesday night and our prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
Anxiety is something that every one of us experiences. It's a common human emotion that we need to learn how to deal with as Christians. On the surface, it seems that anxiety is about the things that we fear, but in reality, it's deeper than that. Anxiety is actually about what we love. When we have anxiety, it's usually because we feel like something we love is being threatened. It may be a relationship, our children, our job, or our reputation.
One question we must ask is, "Is my anxiety based on truth or fantasy?" So many times in my life I've been anxious because of a scenario I've created in my head that wasn't based in reality at all. And other times we're anxious because we devote too much mental energy to things that are simply outside of our control. David Tucker, the pastor I served under at Second Baptist Church, used to tell me about people that were "living in his head rent free." I'm sure you know the feeling. 
There are, however, many legitimate threats that produce fear in our hearts: people who can harm us, relationships that can end, health diagnoses that scare us. To combat anxiety in these circumstances, we need to ask God to help us to look to Him instead of dwelling on the person or situation that makes us worry.
Another question to ask is this: "Is my anxiety reflecting God's priority?" There are some things that we spin over and over in our minds that simply shouldn't have as much of a grip on us as they do. In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us that there are certain things we simply shouldn't be anxious about. He tells us to not be anxious about "what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" (v. 25). 
If we're anxious about these things, it's because we value them too much. It's not that these things aren't important, but God simply doesn't want our priorities to be improperly weighted. He wants us to be much more consumed with Him and His kingdom than on temporary things such as food, drink, and clothing. This is why He tells us to "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" (v. 33). And His wonderful promise to us is that when we prioritize what God Himself prioritizes, then "all these things will be added to you." 
As we go into this New Year together, I'm praying that God would help us all to think on things that are true, lovely, and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8), and that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:7).
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Wednesday Nights – Please join us tonight in the coffee area as we conclude our study on the Ten Commandments! Next Wednesday we'll have our monthly Members Meeting and potluck meal.
  • Music Minister Candidate – Our search committee has identified a Music Minister candidate that they would like to present to the church for consideration. This candidate will lead worship on January 18 and 25. We will have a Q & A with the candidate on January 18 immediately following our worship service, and we will vote on the candidate immediately after our worship service on January 25.
  • Membership Matters – Our next round of church membership classes will begin in February. We will be meeting in the first upstairs classroom on the right hand wall at 9 AM. We will meet on the following dates: February 1, 8, & 15. 
  • Men's Breakfast – Our first men's breakfast of the year will take place this Saturday at 8 AM in the fellowship hall. All men are invited!
  • Church Documents – Please see the attached Member's Meeting agenda for next Wednesday night and our prayer list for this week (please let me know if any additional prayer requests need to be added to the list).
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
 
]]> December 18, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-18-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-18-2025#comments Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:38:44 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-18-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
In Jeremiah 20:12, God is described as the "Lord of hosts, who tests the righteous, who sees the heart and the mind". God knows everything about us, even our inner most attitudes, motivations, and desires. And since this is true, God not only cares that we serve Him, but why we serve Him. Do we serve Him, go to church, and read our Bibles because we love Him? Or do we simply do it out of habit, tradition, or so that God and others will think that we are good people?

This morning in my daily devotions I read about Jesus betrayal by Judas Iscariot in Matthew 26. Jesus knew Judas' true character all along, but no-one else did. Judas fit in perfectly with the other eleven disciples. He was a respected follower of Jesus, even making it into Jesus core leadership team. But the Gospels reveal that Judas' true motives were money, not a love for Jesus.

In John 12, Mary pours out an expensive ointment on Jesus' feet in an extravagant act of devotion to Jesus (v. 3). This act of devotion annoyed Judas because he thought the ointment should be sold so that the money could be given to the poor (vv. 4-5). But, John tells us in verse 6, "He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it." God knew his true motives. He was only in it for money, and when he stopped getting what he wanted from Jesus, he was willing to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Judas appeared to everyone to be a true follower of Jesus, but the reality is that from beginning to end he was only using Jesus for personal gain.

When Jesus told his disciples that one of them would betray Him, eleven of the disciples responded, "Is it I, Lord?" (Matt. 26:22). But Judas had a very different reply. He asked, "It is I, Rabbi?" This answer reveals the difference between Judas and the other eleven disciples. Eleven disciples believed Jesus was Lord. Judas only believed that he was a Rabbi (teacher). Who is Jesus to you? Is He only your teacher? Or is He your Lord? 
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
 
Announcements
  • Candlelight Service – We will be having a candlelight service next Wednesday night at 5:30 PM. All are welcome to attend.
  • Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year. The Bible reading plan provided by the church will encourage you to read through the entire New Testament and half of the Old Testament in a year. Next year, the reading plan will cover the New Testament and the other half of the Old Testament. This plan is a little bit slower paced than reading plans that cover the whole Bible in a year, but this plan will hopefully encourage you to read the Bible slowly and carefully, making sure you are reflecting deeply on what you are reading.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
 
In Jeremiah 20:12, God is described as the "Lord of hosts, who tests the righteous, who sees the heart and the mind". God knows everything about us, even our inner most attitudes, motivations, and desires. And since this is true, God not only cares that we serve Him, but why we serve Him. Do we serve Him, go to church, and read our Bibles because we love Him? Or do we simply do it out of habit, tradition, or so that God and others will think that we are good people?

This morning in my daily devotions I read about Jesus betrayal by Judas Iscariot in Matthew 26. Jesus knew Judas' true character all along, but no-one else did. Judas fit in perfectly with the other eleven disciples. He was a respected follower of Jesus, even making it into Jesus core leadership team. But the Gospels reveal that Judas' true motives were money, not a love for Jesus.

In John 12, Mary pours out an expensive ointment on Jesus' feet in an extravagant act of devotion to Jesus (v. 3). This act of devotion annoyed Judas because he thought the ointment should be sold so that the money could be given to the poor (vv. 4-5). But, John tells us in verse 6, "He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it." God knew his true motives. He was only in it for money, and when he stopped getting what he wanted from Jesus, he was willing to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Judas appeared to everyone to be a true follower of Jesus, but the reality is that from beginning to end he was only using Jesus for personal gain.

When Jesus told his disciples that one of them would betray Him, eleven of the disciples responded, "Is it I, Lord?" (Matt. 26:22). But Judas had a very different reply. He asked, "It is I, Rabbi?" This answer reveals the difference between Judas and the other eleven disciples. Eleven disciples believed Jesus was Lord. Judas only believed that he was a Rabbi (teacher). Who is Jesus to you? Is He only your teacher? Or is He your Lord? 
 
Sunday Worship Guide
 
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
 
Announcements
  • Candlelight Service – We will be having a candlelight service next Wednesday night at 5:30 PM. All are welcome to attend.
  • Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year. The Bible reading plan provided by the church will encourage you to read through the entire New Testament and half of the Old Testament in a year. Next year, the reading plan will cover the New Testament and the other half of the Old Testament. This plan is a little bit slower paced than reading plans that cover the whole Bible in a year, but this plan will hopefully encourage you to read the Bible slowly and carefully, making sure you are reflecting deeply on what you are reading.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
In Christ,
 
Hunter Hanson
 
]]> December 11, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-11-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-11-2025#comments Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:16:17 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-11-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
This Sunday I'll be preaching from Matthew 1:18-25, where God reveals to Joseph the nature of the child in Mary's womb. In this passage, we learn that this baby will be named Jesus "for he will save his people from their sins." How marvelous it is to consider the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is much more than a baby in a manger, as glorious as that reality is. It's about a baby who was born so that He would one day die on the cross for our sins. This is why Jesus has come. He's come to save us from our sins. 
Later in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, "What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?" (Matthew 18:12). And this is what Christ has done for us. He's come down from heaven to save us. We've gone astray, but Jesus has come to earth so that He might seek and save that which was lost. 
This Christmas, let us rejoice in the greatest gift that we've ever received, the gift of salvation. And may we share that gift with the lost world around us so that they might enjoy the wonderful gift of salvation this Christmas as well.
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Holiday Meal – Join us this Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. The church will provide ham for our meal. Please bring a dessert or a side dish. And invite your friends to join us!
  • Wednesday Nights – We'll be having our our monthly Member's Meeting and fellowship meal. I hope you will join us for this important time together as a church where we not only have fellowship with one another, but we also make significant decisions together related to our church. Next week we'll resume our study of the Ten Commandments in the coffee area.
  • Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year. The Bible reading plan provided by the church will encourage you to read through the entire New Testament and half of the Old Testament in a year. Next year, the reading plan will cover the New Testament and the other half of the Old Testament. This plan is a little bit slower paced than reading plans that cover the whole Bible in a year, but this plan will hopefully encourage you to read the Bible slowly and carefully, making sure you are reflecting deeply on what you are reading.
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me or Annette Reid directly.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
This Sunday I'll be preaching from Matthew 1:18-25, where God reveals to Joseph the nature of the child in Mary's womb. In this passage, we learn that this baby will be named Jesus "for he will save his people from their sins." How marvelous it is to consider the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is much more than a baby in a manger, as glorious as that reality is. It's about a baby who was born so that He would one day die on the cross for our sins. This is why Jesus has come. He's come to save us from our sins. 
Later in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, "What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?" (Matthew 18:12). And this is what Christ has done for us. He's come down from heaven to save us. We've gone astray, but Jesus has come to earth so that He might seek and save that which was lost. 
This Christmas, let us rejoice in the greatest gift that we've ever received, the gift of salvation. And may we share that gift with the lost world around us so that they might enjoy the wonderful gift of salvation this Christmas as well.
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Holiday Meal – Join us this Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. The church will provide ham for our meal. Please bring a dessert or a side dish. And invite your friends to join us!
  • Wednesday Nights – We'll be having our our monthly Member's Meeting and fellowship meal. I hope you will join us for this important time together as a church where we not only have fellowship with one another, but we also make significant decisions together related to our church. Next week we'll resume our study of the Ten Commandments in the coffee area.
  • Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year. The Bible reading plan provided by the church will encourage you to read through the entire New Testament and half of the Old Testament in a year. Next year, the reading plan will cover the New Testament and the other half of the Old Testament. This plan is a little bit slower paced than reading plans that cover the whole Bible in a year, but this plan will hopefully encourage you to read the Bible slowly and carefully, making sure you are reflecting deeply on what you are reading.
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me or Annette Reid directly.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]> December 4, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-4-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-4-2025#comments Sun, 07 Dec 2025 08:58:47 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/december-4-2025
Dear EBC Family,


This Sunday, I will begin a new sermon series on the Gospel of Matthew. I'll be preaching on the genealogy that opens the Gospel of Matthew in Matthew 1:1-17. This text is essentially a list of names, and one might wonder why we would bother taking the time to look at it in detail on a Sunday morning. Before I ever began in pastoral ministry, I made a commitment that I would seek to preach through all of God's Word, just as the Apostle Paul told the Ephesians that he "did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27).

It can be very easy to only focus on texts that have the message that I want to share. Or it can be easy to focus only on those passages of Scripture that I think other people will want to hear. But all of God's Word is worthy of our attention and is applicable to our lives, as Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

According, to Paul, all Scripture is God's Word, and therefore, all Scripture is useful for the Christian life. Even genealogies! As we look at a long list of names this Sunday, I am praying that God would speak directly to you in a way that can only happen through this text of Scripture.

Sunday Worship Guide

Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Sermon Text – Matthew 1:1-17
Song List
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3P97yj-f4sc&list=RD3P97yj-f4sc&start_radio=1)
O Come All Ye Faithful (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nu48M8kHMkk&list=RDNu48M8kHMkk&start_radio=1)
O Come O Come Emmanuel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQP0JsxEdPo&list=RDxQP0JsxEdPo&start_radio=1)
Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDLaC0N-coU&list=RDrDLaC0N-coU&start_radio=1)
Go Tell It on the Mountain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwLvk1c_OyM&list=RDqwLvk1c_OyM&start_radio=1)
Lighting of the 2nd Advent Candle

Announcements
International Missions Meal – Please join us this Friday, December 7, at 6 PM, for our international missions meal! We will be having various international dishes, and we will have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers, Rick and Jill Thompson, as they shares about their experience as missionaries in Brazil.
Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday we will have our monthly Member's Meeting and fellowship meal. Attached are the meeting agenda and the ministry team list along with team job descriptions that we will be voting on.
Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year.
Holiday Meal – Join us on Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. The church will provide meat. Please bring a dessert or a side dish.
Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me or Annette Reid directly.
Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley.
Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."

Upcoming Events
December 5 – International Missions Meal
December 14 – Holiday Meal

In Christ,

Hunter Hanson

]]>
Dear EBC Family,


This Sunday, I will begin a new sermon series on the Gospel of Matthew. I'll be preaching on the genealogy that opens the Gospel of Matthew in Matthew 1:1-17. This text is essentially a list of names, and one might wonder why we would bother taking the time to look at it in detail on a Sunday morning. Before I ever began in pastoral ministry, I made a commitment that I would seek to preach through all of God's Word, just as the Apostle Paul told the Ephesians that he "did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27).

It can be very easy to only focus on texts that have the message that I want to share. Or it can be easy to focus only on those passages of Scripture that I think other people will want to hear. But all of God's Word is worthy of our attention and is applicable to our lives, as Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

According, to Paul, all Scripture is God's Word, and therefore, all Scripture is useful for the Christian life. Even genealogies! As we look at a long list of names this Sunday, I am praying that God would speak directly to you in a way that can only happen through this text of Scripture.

Sunday Worship Guide

Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Sermon Text – Matthew 1:1-17
Song List
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3P97yj-f4sc&list=RD3P97yj-f4sc&start_radio=1)
O Come All Ye Faithful (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nu48M8kHMkk&list=RDNu48M8kHMkk&start_radio=1)
O Come O Come Emmanuel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQP0JsxEdPo&list=RDxQP0JsxEdPo&start_radio=1)
Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDLaC0N-coU&list=RDrDLaC0N-coU&start_radio=1)
Go Tell It on the Mountain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwLvk1c_OyM&list=RDqwLvk1c_OyM&start_radio=1)
Lighting of the 2nd Advent Candle

Announcements
International Missions Meal – Please join us this Friday, December 7, at 6 PM, for our international missions meal! We will be having various international dishes, and we will have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers, Rick and Jill Thompson, as they shares about their experience as missionaries in Brazil.
Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday we will have our monthly Member's Meeting and fellowship meal. Attached are the meeting agenda and the ministry team list along with team job descriptions that we will be voting on.
Bible Reading Plans – As we approach the new year, it is time to start thinking about your Bible reading plan for the next year. The church has made some Bible reading plans that you are welcome to take. This is a great way for us to read through God's Word together in the coming year.
Holiday Meal – Join us on Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. The church will provide meat. Please bring a dessert or a side dish.
Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me or Annette Reid directly.
Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley.
Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."

Upcoming Events
December 5 – International Missions Meal
December 14 – Holiday Meal

In Christ,

Hunter Hanson

]]> November 27, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-27-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-27-2025#comments Sun, 30 Nov 2025 11:54:40 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-27-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
This week many will be gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving with family, but not everyone will enjoy the same privilege. This can be one of the loneliest times of years for those who have lost loved ones. May this serve as a reminder to us that our calling as a church is to be the family of God to which every believer belongs.
The family of God consists of all real Christians from every age. You may be born into the godliest family, but no parent can put you into this family. To be a part of this family, you must be born again (John 1:12-13). 
And as believers, not all of our family members are with us. Some of God's family is in heaven. They are at rest in the place that Jesus calls "Paradise" (Luke 23:43). They are called the church victorious, because their battle is over. They have carried their cross and finished their work. J. C. Ryle says, "They have passed through the waves of this troublesome world and reached the harbour." They are experiencing perfect rest and happiness in the eternal bliss of being in God's presence (Psalm 16:11).
But the rest of God's family is still on earth. This is the church militant. We still have a race to run, a work to do, a cross to carry, and a war to fight. Since the Christian life is full of difficulty, we should be grateful that God has given us a spiritual family to belong to. 
The gospel calls us to draw near to one another because Christ drew near to us. When Christ's love captures our hearts, something shifts. As loved people, we begin to love people. We begin to move toward others. We begin to see fellow believers as our brothers and sisters, and we desire to have a relationship with them. Let us be grateful this Thanksgiving that God has given us a spiritual family to help us on our journey until we are reunited with the whole family of God in heaven. 
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – This Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Bledsoe Thanksgiving – Dakota & Kia Bledsoe are opening their home to anyone who would like to join them on Thanksgiving. If you would like to join them, please contact me directly.
  • Wednesday Nights – We will not be meeting this Wednesday because of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will next meet on December 3 in the fellowship hall for the Lottie Moon week of prayer.
  • International Missions Meal – On Friday, December 7, at 6 PM, we will be having various international dishes for our international missions meal. Please sign up for the international dish you would like to bring. We will also be listening to guest speaker, Rick Thompson, as he shares about his experience as a missionary in Brazil.
  • Holiday Meal – Join us on Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. Please bring a dessert or a side dish.
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me directly.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
This week many will be gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving with family, but not everyone will enjoy the same privilege. This can be one of the loneliest times of years for those who have lost loved ones. May this serve as a reminder to us that our calling as a church is to be the family of God to which every believer belongs.
The family of God consists of all real Christians from every age. You may be born into the godliest family, but no parent can put you into this family. To be a part of this family, you must be born again (John 1:12-13). 
And as believers, not all of our family members are with us. Some of God's family is in heaven. They are at rest in the place that Jesus calls "Paradise" (Luke 23:43). They are called the church victorious, because their battle is over. They have carried their cross and finished their work. J. C. Ryle says, "They have passed through the waves of this troublesome world and reached the harbour." They are experiencing perfect rest and happiness in the eternal bliss of being in God's presence (Psalm 16:11).
But the rest of God's family is still on earth. This is the church militant. We still have a race to run, a work to do, a cross to carry, and a war to fight. Since the Christian life is full of difficulty, we should be grateful that God has given us a spiritual family to belong to. 
The gospel calls us to draw near to one another because Christ drew near to us. When Christ's love captures our hearts, something shifts. As loved people, we begin to love people. We begin to move toward others. We begin to see fellow believers as our brothers and sisters, and we desire to have a relationship with them. Let us be grateful this Thanksgiving that God has given us a spiritual family to help us on our journey until we are reunited with the whole family of God in heaven. 
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – This Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Bledsoe Thanksgiving – Dakota & Kia Bledsoe are opening their home to anyone who would like to join them on Thanksgiving. If you would like to join them, please contact me directly.
  • Wednesday Nights – We will not be meeting this Wednesday because of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will next meet on December 3 in the fellowship hall for the Lottie Moon week of prayer.
  • International Missions Meal – On Friday, December 7, at 6 PM, we will be having various international dishes for our international missions meal. Please sign up for the international dish you would like to bring. We will also be listening to guest speaker, Rick Thompson, as he shares about his experience as a missionary in Brazil.
  • Holiday Meal – Join us on Sunday, December 14, immediately after church at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall for our Holiday Meal. Please bring a dessert or a side dish.
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me directly.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
]]> November 20, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-20-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-20-2025#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:40:58 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-20-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
As we draw near to Thanksgiving, this is a wonderful time for us as believers to remind ourselves of all that we have to be thankful for. This past week in my devotions it struck me that the prophet Isaiah calls the gospel message of salvation "good news of happiness" (Isaiah 52:7).
This doesn't deny the fact that our lives may be filled with sorrow. Jesus Himself was "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3). If you are dealing with sorrow and grief, you are experiencing emotions that Jesus Himself felt. And while grief and sorrow are real experiences that we as believers have and must work through, because of Christ, we do have reason for gratitude that transcends our circumstances. We can have Joy "in the Lord" because the man of sorrows "has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows" (Isaiah 53:4).
J. C. Ryle said, "Faith in Christ is the grand secret of happiness...Death may cut down wife, and children, and friends, until he who once enjoyed them stands entirely alone. But the man who has come to Christ by faith, will still possess something which can never be taken from him." 
My prayer for you this morning is that the Lord would help you to fix your mind on the amazing grace that you have received in Christ. Through the gospel, Christ has given to us "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:4-5). Peter encourages us to respond to this good news of happiness by rejoicing "with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls" (1 Peter 1:8-9). Because of our salvation, we as believers ought to be the most thankful people!
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 3rd Thursday Prayer – We are gathering for prayer at the church at 11 AM this morning. I hope you will join us if you are able!
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me directly.
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – On Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Wednesday Nights – We will not be meeting next Wednesday night because of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will next meet on December 3 in the fellowship hall for the Lottie Moon week of prayer.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
As we draw near to Thanksgiving, this is a wonderful time for us as believers to remind ourselves of all that we have to be thankful for. This past week in my devotions it struck me that the prophet Isaiah calls the gospel message of salvation "good news of happiness" (Isaiah 52:7).
This doesn't deny the fact that our lives may be filled with sorrow. Jesus Himself was "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3). If you are dealing with sorrow and grief, you are experiencing emotions that Jesus Himself felt. And while grief and sorrow are real experiences that we as believers have and must work through, because of Christ, we do have reason for gratitude that transcends our circumstances. We can have Joy "in the Lord" because the man of sorrows "has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows" (Isaiah 53:4).
J. C. Ryle said, "Faith in Christ is the grand secret of happiness...Death may cut down wife, and children, and friends, until he who once enjoyed them stands entirely alone. But the man who has come to Christ by faith, will still possess something which can never be taken from him." 
My prayer for you this morning is that the Lord would help you to fix your mind on the amazing grace that you have received in Christ. Through the gospel, Christ has given to us "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:4-5). Peter encourages us to respond to this good news of happiness by rejoicing "with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls" (1 Peter 1:8-9). Because of our salvation, we as believers ought to be the most thankful people!
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 3rd Thursday Prayer – We are gathering for prayer at the church at 11 AM this morning. I hope you will join us if you are able!
  • Treasurer Position – We are currently in need of a treasurer. If you have a financial background, and if you are interested, please contact me directly.
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – On Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Wednesday Nights – We will not be meeting next Wednesday night because of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will next meet on December 3 in the fellowship hall for the Lottie Moon week of prayer.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Gidley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]> November 13, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-13-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-13-2025#comments Sun, 16 Nov 2025 08:37:25 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-13-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, "Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
When you hear this invitation, you have a right to question who offers it to you. The world is full of imposters, cheats, scams, deceivers, and liars. The value of a promise is only as good as the one who makes it. But the speaker of this invitation is the most trustworthy man that has ever lived. He is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God. He is one who is Almighty, very God of very God. He has all power in heaven and on earth. What He promises He is able to perform, and He always keeps His word.
The invitation He gives is for those of us who are laboring and are heavy laden. Because of the entrance of sin into the world, this is true of all of us. Since the Fall of Adam and Eve, all of creation groans, and life is filled with heavy burdens that press us down. The heaviest burden of all that we bear is the inward burden of our own guilt. And if you are one who is laboring and heavy laden, this invitation from Christ is for you. If you have a broken heart or a guilty conscience, if you are looking for rest for your soul and peace for your guilty heart, Jesus is speaking to you.
You may think this invitation isn't for you because you aren't good enough to be invited by Christ. But Jesus doesn't speak to the good, but to those who are laboring and are heavy laden. If the terms "laboring" and "heavy laden" resonate with how you feel, then Jesus is speaking to you. Mercy is available for you in Christ. Don't turn your back on the mercy and peace that He invites you to receive. Don't allow pride, fear, or self-righteousness to cause you to reject Christ's offer. Go to Christ today, and He will surely receive you and give you the rest for your soul that you long for.
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 3rd Thursday Prayer – Please sign up for 3rd Thursday Prayer this Sunday. Without the Lord's help, we can do nothing. On the sign-up sheet, you will notice a slight change. The 11 AM time slot will be a time for corporate prayer. If you are available, please meet us the church at 11 AM so that we might pray together during this time.
  • Secretary & Treasurer Position – Annette Reid has been filling both our secretary and treasurer position for quite a while. We have been searching for a secretary, but there's been little interest in the position. Annette has offered to fill the secretary position as a volunteer, but she is requesting that someone alleviate her of the treasurer position. If you have a financial background and are willing to serve our church in this capacity, please reach out to me directly.
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – On Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday night we'll be studying the Eighth Commandment in Exodus 20:15. Last week we met in the coffee area by the foyer, and I thought it was a positive change. If you plan to attend, plan to join us in the coffee area.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Ridley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, "Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
When you hear this invitation, you have a right to question who offers it to you. The world is full of imposters, cheats, scams, deceivers, and liars. The value of a promise is only as good as the one who makes it. But the speaker of this invitation is the most trustworthy man that has ever lived. He is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God. He is one who is Almighty, very God of very God. He has all power in heaven and on earth. What He promises He is able to perform, and He always keeps His word.
The invitation He gives is for those of us who are laboring and are heavy laden. Because of the entrance of sin into the world, this is true of all of us. Since the Fall of Adam and Eve, all of creation groans, and life is filled with heavy burdens that press us down. The heaviest burden of all that we bear is the inward burden of our own guilt. And if you are one who is laboring and heavy laden, this invitation from Christ is for you. If you have a broken heart or a guilty conscience, if you are looking for rest for your soul and peace for your guilty heart, Jesus is speaking to you.
You may think this invitation isn't for you because you aren't good enough to be invited by Christ. But Jesus doesn't speak to the good, but to those who are laboring and are heavy laden. If the terms "laboring" and "heavy laden" resonate with how you feel, then Jesus is speaking to you. Mercy is available for you in Christ. Don't turn your back on the mercy and peace that He invites you to receive. Don't allow pride, fear, or self-righteousness to cause you to reject Christ's offer. Go to Christ today, and He will surely receive you and give you the rest for your soul that you long for.
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • 3rd Thursday Prayer – Please sign up for 3rd Thursday Prayer this Sunday. Without the Lord's help, we can do nothing. On the sign-up sheet, you will notice a slight change. The 11 AM time slot will be a time for corporate prayer. If you are available, please meet us the church at 11 AM so that we might pray together during this time.
  • Secretary & Treasurer Position – Annette Reid has been filling both our secretary and treasurer position for quite a while. We have been searching for a secretary, but there's been little interest in the position. Annette has offered to fill the secretary position as a volunteer, but she is requesting that someone alleviate her of the treasurer position. If you have a financial background and are willing to serve our church in this capacity, please reach out to me directly.
  • 5th Sunday Fellowship – On Sunday, November 30, we'll be having a time of fellowship during the Sunday School hour in the fellowship hall. I hope that you will join us! Donuts, milk, coffee, chocolate milk, and orange juice will be available.
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday night we'll be studying the Eighth Commandment in Exodus 20:15. Last week we met in the coffee area by the foyer, and I thought it was a positive change. If you plan to attend, plan to join us in the coffee area.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Ridley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
]]> November 6th, 2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-6th-2025 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-6th-2025#comments Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:13:54 -0500 https://www.excellbc.org/blog/post/november-6th-2025
 
Dear EBC Family,
In Isaiah 31:1, the prophet Isaiah warns the nation of Israel: "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord!"
In times of need, the Lord stands ready to help us. He has all power and might, and His ears are open to our cry. The author of Hebrews encourages us to "draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (4:16).
But in order to benefit from the Lord's help, we must believe that He's willing and able to help us. God will allow us to walk through difficulties so that He might test our faith. Will we trust Him in times of difficulty? Will we depend on Him when the future seems uncertain? Or will we look elsewhere?
If we don't look to the Lord, we'll inevitably look elsewhere for help. This is exactly what God was warning the nation of Israel to not do. He knew that they would want to look to the unbelieving Egyptians for help because of all of their earthly power. The Egyptians' many chariots and very strong horsemen seemed like solid protection against their threatening enemies.
But, the Lord reminds them: "The Egyptians are man, and not God, and their horses are flesh, and not spirit. When the Lord stretches out his hand, the helper will stumble, and he who is helped will fall, and they will all perish together" (Isa. 31:3). What appears to be a safe refuge in the world's eyes will come to nothing if the Lord stretches out His hand against it. Let's look to the Lord who made the heavens and the earth by His outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for Him (Jer. 32:17).
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Associate Pastor Q&A Session – We will be having a Q&A session regarding the proposed associate pastor position immediately after church this Sunday in the fellowship hall. We will be voting on this position in our business meeting next Wednesday. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to think through this important topic together before the vote.
  • Men's Breakfast – Our men's ministry will be having a men's breakfast this Saturday at 8 AM in the fellowship hall. 
  • Service Opportunity – Rick Gallegos and I recently visited one of our homebound church members, Phyllis Esperson. She has great difficulty walking, and she requested help with the ramp that leads to her front door. Rick just had back surgery, so he's limited in how he can help. We are in need of a few volunteers who can help nail down some boards on her ramp. If you are able to assist, please contact Rick at (931) 338-1124.
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday we will have our monthly members meeting and potluck. I hope you will join us!
  • Membership Matters – Our membership class is taking place this month on the following dates: November 2, 9, and 16.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Ridley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>
 
Dear EBC Family,
In Isaiah 31:1, the prophet Isaiah warns the nation of Israel: "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord!"
In times of need, the Lord stands ready to help us. He has all power and might, and His ears are open to our cry. The author of Hebrews encourages us to "draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (4:16).
But in order to benefit from the Lord's help, we must believe that He's willing and able to help us. God will allow us to walk through difficulties so that He might test our faith. Will we trust Him in times of difficulty? Will we depend on Him when the future seems uncertain? Or will we look elsewhere?
If we don't look to the Lord, we'll inevitably look elsewhere for help. This is exactly what God was warning the nation of Israel to not do. He knew that they would want to look to the unbelieving Egyptians for help because of all of their earthly power. The Egyptians' many chariots and very strong horsemen seemed like solid protection against their threatening enemies.
But, the Lord reminds them: "The Egyptians are man, and not God, and their horses are flesh, and not spirit. When the Lord stretches out his hand, the helper will stumble, and he who is helped will fall, and they will all perish together" (Isa. 31:3). What appears to be a safe refuge in the world's eyes will come to nothing if the Lord stretches out His hand against it. Let's look to the Lord who made the heavens and the earth by His outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for Him (Jer. 32:17).
Sunday Worship Guide
Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.
Announcements
  • Associate Pastor Q&A Session – We will be having a Q&A session regarding the proposed associate pastor position immediately after church this Sunday in the fellowship hall. We will be voting on this position in our business meeting next Wednesday. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to think through this important topic together before the vote.
  • Men's Breakfast – Our men's ministry will be having a men's breakfast this Saturday at 8 AM in the fellowship hall. 
  • Service Opportunity – Rick Gallegos and I recently visited one of our homebound church members, Phyllis Esperson. She has great difficulty walking, and she requested help with the ramp that leads to her front door. Rick just had back surgery, so he's limited in how he can help. We are in need of a few volunteers who can help nail down some boards on her ramp. If you are able to assist, please contact Rick at (931) 338-1124.
  • Wednesday Nights – Next Wednesday we will have our monthly members meeting and potluck. I hope you will join us!
  • Membership Matters – Our membership class is taking place this month on the following dates: November 2, 9, and 16.
  • Theology for Breakfast – This is a men's discipleship group that meets on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month at 6:30 AM at The Coffee House South. We spend time sharing our struggles and prayer needs with one another, and then we spend the rest of our time discussing a book that we are reading together. If you are interested in joining, please let me know.
  • Trail Life/American Heritage Girls – Trail Life and AHG meet at the church each Thursday night at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in serving as mentor/volunteer, please contact Tom or Michelle Ridley. 
  • Classical Conversations – The homeschool group, Classical Conversations, meets at our church on Tuesdays from 8:00 AM–3:30 PM.
  • Bible Study Fellowship – The women's BSF group meets at our church on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you would like to join the current study, visit bsfinternational.org, click "Find a Group," locate the Excell Baptist Church group, and click "Request to Join."
 
Upcoming Events
  • November 30 – 5th Sunday Fellowship during the Sunday School hour (9:00 AM)
  • December 5 – International Missions Meal
  • December 14 – Holiday Meal
In Christ,
Hunter Hanson
 
]]>