Cottondale Community Church

Are You Willing To Take Up Your Cross?

2011-01-02T19:00:00.001-08:00

In Matthew 16, Jesus begins to tell the disciples about the will of the Father for His life. He goes further, also, to tell them about the will of God for their lives. As his life involved sacrifice, their lives for Him would involve sacrifice, and our lives, if lived for Christ, will involve sacrifice. He truly instructs these men and informs us through the witness of his Word on how to live a Christian life.

To live a Christian life you must live a:

I. Crucified Life: The believer must understand that being a witness for Christ requires that he take up his cross and follow Christ. The cross of Christ represents the will of God for his life, and the cross of the Christian represents the will of God in the saint’s life.
II. A Consecrated Life: To live a Christian life means that you must deny yourself and take up your cross. You will not only need to live a crucified life, you will also need to live a consecrated life. Your cross is God’s will for your life.
III. Conformed Life: Jesus said you must deny yourselves, take up the cross, and “follow me.” Others have given their lives for the cause of Christ. Consider that whatever sacrifices we are making today to serve God is minimal. Consider that, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” II Cor 4:17.

2011 - The Year of Revival

2011-01-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

The Lord has called us to proclaim 2011 as "The Year of Revival" for CCC. We believe that God is going to inhabit our lives this year in a very spectacular way. Our first revival begins on Sunday, January 23, 2011 with Dr. H. E. Cardin. We are excited about what God is doing.

The revival will be preceeded by 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting. The event will begin on Jan. 2nd and end Jan. 22. This will lead us into a special time of spiritual renewal.

I believe that God has been calling His people to prayer and fasting over the last several years. Sometimes the church has responded in a variety of ways. I have seen some use 21 days of prayer and fasting as a time to begin their New Year’s resolutions. Some have used it as a way to diet and lose weight, while others see it as a time to break bad habits.

Too often we go on hunger strikes to hear from God, yet we continue our busy, distracted lives. That is not a true fast, therefore, we will get very little benefit from it.

A true fast occurs when we abstain from the things of the world for the purpose of seeking God in a more focused manner.

The children of Israel would abstain from food and then question God, saying, “Why are You not impressed? or Why don’t You notice our efforts?”

God answered them through the prophet Isaiah in Is. 58: 3-4 saying, “I will tell you why! It’s because you are living for yourselves even while you are fasting – In the day of your fast you find pleasure and exploit all your laborers. This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me" (NLT).

The fasting that God is calling us to is not necessarily a food fast, and most likely it is not a total refraining from food. It is a fast of what keeps you from seeking the Lord. It may be TV, the computer, cell pohones, Facebook, Twitter, gossip, friends, family, finances, work, and so on. It’s time to turn from the world and turn back to God.

2011-01-01T19:14:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2010

2011-01-01T19:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2010 at CCC brought a special feeling to the hearts and lives of hundreds of people who were blessed by presence of the real and living Savior. December 18th was a special day of service to the poor and need. Volunteers from CCC, Cottondale Christian, Cottondale UMC, Old Salem Baptist and others helped to serve 155 families in our monthly food distribution. The Lord has blessed this ministry this past year and we are anxious to see what God will do next.

The youth and children's ministry were in charge of the annual Christmas program. Approximately 170 people turned out to see this special presentation. The kids put on an excellent production and many were blessed by the message of God's "indescribable gift."

The ladies turned out for a wonderful evening at Pamela's Palace on Dec. 20th. It proved to be a great time of fun and fellowship. We are anticipating God's blessings throughout the coming year.

"His First Noel" Christmas Play

2011-01-01T19:02:00.000-08:00

Ladies Christmas Celebration at CCC!

2011-01-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

Community Thanksgiving Service

2010-11-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

The Cottondale Community Thanksgiving Service was a tremendous blessing. The event took place at Benville Baptist Church in Cottondale, AL. Churches and pastors from the community partcipated in a special time of worship and giving of thanks. Bishop Simon Hunter brought the Word of God with great anointing. The service concluded with a wonderful fellowship dinner. To God be the glory for His bountiful blessings of love.

Food Pantry

2010-11-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

The Care Package set distribution records this past week-end. We served 187 families from our food pantry. We would like to acknowledge the outstanding effort of our director, Teresa Crawford, and everyone who volunteered their time to participate in this ministry. There were 37 new families served on Saturday. The next distribution date will be December 18th. If you would like to serve in some capacity during this month's activity please let us know. There is plenty of work to be done.

Carnality vs Spirituality

2010-11-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

Paul reminds us that the carnal mind is at war with God and eventually will lead us to death. The spiritual mind experiences life and peace. Hell, it would seem, has fallen on rather lean times. It used to be that the vast majority of Christians, regardless of denominational affiliation, believed that Hell was a real place where the wicked and the impenitent go when they died. The very thought of the pains and torments of Hell was enough to scare sinners straight. It used to be that ministers of the Gospel would preach on the horrors of Hell to persuade reprobates to repentance. But not anymore. Most American mainline and so-called Evangelical churches stopped preaching about Hell years ago. Most mainline ministers stopped believing in Hell years before that. Hell made people uncomfortable. Hell was too “old-fashioned.” The topic of Hell was bad for the bottom line—attendance and income. Hell damaged people’s self-esteem. We have neatly wall- papered over Hell to the detriment and peril of our souls. I can assure you, the Devil believes in a Hell. That’s why he is working so tirelessly in our world before he is dumped there. The demons Jesus exorcised from people believed in Hell and pleaded with Him not to send them there. Jesus certainly believed in a Hell. The top three topics our Lord spent most of His time speaking about in His earthly teaching ministry were money and material possessions, Hell, and the Kingdom of Heaven. And the Master’s words about Hell are sober, dire, and serious. His constant admonition to His hearers was this: Do whatever you must to avoid Hell.

You may not believe in hell, you may think that it is just a state of mind, but as the old revival preacher said to the skeptic, “You not believing in Hell don’t lower the temperature there one degree.”

Special thanks to the youth drama team for helping in this series of messages to bring to life the reality that hell exists.

2010-11-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

Food Pantry

2010-10-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

The Care Package Food Pantry will distribute food in the morning, October 16th at 8:00 a.m. Please come and participate in this vital ministry. Workers need to be there by 7:30 a.m.

Scenes from Picnic at Pamela's Palace

2010-10-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Picnic at Pamela's Palace

2010-10-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

The Annual Picnic at the Parsonage will take place this coming Sunday evening at 4:30 p.m. This year's event will be held at Pamela's Palace. Join us for a very special time of fellowship and fun.

Praise God for His Wonderful Grace!

2010-10-03T17:42:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a special day at CCC as the church celebrated the burning of the mortgage 5 years in advance to the pay-off date. Special guests for the day's events were Jim Jayne, Vice-President of Cadence Bank and State Representative and Mrs. Gerald Allen. The choir blessed the crowd with a special rendition of "Nothing's Too Big For My God," and the youth drama performed a wonderful presentation that ministered to young and old. The service concluded with a congregation dedication from Psalm 103 and the official mortgage burning tradition that lifted the spirit of the church. It was a glorious day, as we shared together in a Christian fellowship dinner. We praise God for His wonderful grace Divine.!

A Message From the Governor

2010-10-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

State Representative Gerald Allen presents Pastor Ron Martin with a letter of commendation from Alabama Governor Bob Riley for the church's achievement of paying off their idebtedness and impacting their community with vital Christian ministry.

Memorable Day at CCC!

2010-10-03T17:27:00.000-07:00

A Study of Revelation

2010-09-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

In the book of Revelation there are three major judgments that come to the earth. The first wave is called the seal judgments. They unfold as the Lamb breaks the seals of the scroll. As each seal is broken, it unleashes a new barrage of God’s judgment against an evil and Christ-rejecting world. Then, in chapter 8, another round begins as the angels blow the seven trumpets. Finally, the bowl judgments begin in chapter 16, as the final measure of God’s wrath is poured out on a world which refuses to budge from its position of willful unbelief. Each series of judgments is worse than the other, and the bowls complete the work during the great Tribulation, just prior to the return of Christ.

It is not pleasant to read about the carrying out of God’s judgment on the world. There are plagues, famine, war, and death. There is great suffering in the world as a result of what God is doing. There are many questions surrounding God’s activity and his purpose in all this. It all seems so terrible. Why would God do these things which cause such misery and pain?

The purpose of these judgments is redemptive. It is an effort to get people to turn from their sin and turn to God — so that they might live. We need to remember that the Lord has said, “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die. . . ?” (Ezekiel 33:11).

As these judgments are being carried out, it is the express purpose of the judgments to turn people from their sin so that God can turn from carrying out from his judgment against their sin and forgive them. He wants to save, not to harm. The purpose of the judgments is redemptive, not punitive. God seeks through these measures to correct, not merely to punish. God desires reconciliation, not retribution. In fact, the word for punish if found only one time in the entire book of Revelation (17:1), and then it is speaking about the punishment of the great prostitute who represents the evil, one-world government of the end times.

What is interesting is that there is a sense of wonder on the part of the inhabitants of heaven that the people of earth are experiencing all these judgments and still remain willfully and stubbornly rebellious.

It says in chapter nine: “The rest of mankind that were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood — idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts” (Revelation 9:20-21).

JOIN US EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 6:30 PM AS WE CONTINUE OUR STUDY IN THE BOOK OF THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST.

What About the 7000 Who Haven't Bowed?

2010-09-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Everytime a scandal breaks loose in the mega-church, mega-ministry, tele-evangelist world, people rush to pass judgment on the ills of Christianity and Christian ministers. Recent events have once again set the wheels of destructive finger pointing in motion. In a recent article entitled, What Is Happening To Clergy In America?, the author equates the root cause of all clerical problems to unaccountable, sinful actions. He writes,

It seems today that the church and its leaders are experiencing a genuine and increasing attack by Satan. Why is this? It might be due to stress or burnout in the lives of clergy, or it could just be carelessness. Whatever it is, it is sin and it must be addressed. What we have found most often is that moral or ethical failure can be partially categorized in three phrases.

     1. A lack of accountability and too much power.
     2. Unresolved conflict at home.
     3. Limited time spent along with God.
Failure to address any one of these three challenges can lead to great sorrow and ministerial failure.

While the general premise of these statements may be correct, one cannot help but wonder why society seems to lump every minister into the same category. Just because some superstar minister becomes entagled in a scathing scandal does not mean that the whole of American clergy has gone to pot. Ministers are human and they fail, but that doesn't mean that the total sum of ministry is somehow susceptible to sinning.

The story of Elijah is educational. This great anointed prophet withstood hundreds of idolatrous priests, called fire from heaven and punsihed a wicked nation for turning from God.  However, in a moment of weakness he ran from his persecutors and hid in a cave. When God asked him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" he responded with a self-absorded whine, "All of Israel has forken Your covenant .... and I alone am left" (1 Kings 19:10). God reminded him that while the wind, earthquake and fire are ominous, He is able to speak comfort through "a still small voice." He reminded Elijah that there were 7000 in Israel who had not bowed before idolatry and wickedness.

We would do well to remind ourselves that when a minister falls, or a superstar burns-out, there are still thousands around the world preaching the gospel, sacrificing their lives, and taking the Kingdom of God into the far corners of the world. There are men and women, who may never receive noteriety or fame, that are humbly walking in the paths of righteousness and are ministering continually to the hurting and dying world around them. What's happening to the clergy in America? The majority are fulfilling the Great Commission, without any fanfare, without any prosperity, and without any superstar status. Those are the ones that we should focus our attention on and recognize them for their tremendous labor of love. Paul urges us to, recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord ... and esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).

The fall of the super-nova in the Christian world should not be surpising to anyone. One only needs to look at the pattern of their lifestyle to be able to discern that they sometimes set themselves up for a fall. The Scriptures plainly tell us that whoever humbles himself will be exalted and whoever exalts himself will be brought down.

Great Day!

2010-09-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to Teresa Crawford and the Food Pantry staff for their excellent work this past Saturday. There were over 100 families served and lots of ministry took place as people sought prayer and encouragement from The Care Package Ministry.

Special Thanks

2010-09-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

We would like to extend a special thanks to Cottondale United Methodist Church for their recent Fish Fry which was used to support the Cottondale Community Church's Food Pantry. The total amount of proceeds donated to the pantry was over $3500.

Our gratitude goes out to Pastor John Hassell and all the folks at CUMC. We deeply love you and appreciate your support. What a great testimony for the kingdom of God when churches come together and do the ministry of Christ in love and unity.

The Care Package

2010-09-23T12:37:00.000-07:00

Come and join us this coming Saturday morning, September 25th at 8:00 a.m. for our Food Pantry Distribution. We need as many volunteers as possible to help us distribute food. Come and be blessed by the Lord and minister to those less fortunate than you.

Thank God for Grace!

2010-09-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

I recently read an article by the Vice President of Pastoral Ministries for Focus on the Family. The title of the article was, "Playing By The Rules Is Not Legalism." The writer used the illustration of Dustin Johnson's heart-breaking mistake at this year's PGA championship. His premise is that though Johnson's mistake was an error of judgment, he still violated the rules by grounding his club in one of the 1200 sand traps littered throughout the course.

Everything he stated about Johnson's mishap is true. However, the sad facts remain that the sand traps were left unprotected, and as a result, thousands of spectators trampled through the trap and violated the ingretity of the course. In hindsight, someone should have informed Johnson of his position in the trap (his caddie for instance) or Johnson, himself, should have asked for position clarity. However, in the heat of competition no can fault the young man for his lack of understanding. Johnson did not purposefully violate the rule.

No one can suggest that Johnson's grounding of the club gave him an unfair advantage. His next shot landed in an extremely high rough and only by his excellent play was he able to finish the hole with a bogey which cost him one stroke and left him tied with two other players. And who was waiting at the end of the course to deliver the good news of his impending penalty - THE RULE KEEPERS.

Several arguments have been made that the rule was unfair and that the course conditions were unclear, however, the fact remains that Johnson violated the rules and he had to be penalized. That is a cold hard fact of life. When men make rules they will do their best to judge and punish those who violate them, whether they do it willfully or unwittingly. Johnson's mistake was not on purpose however, he handled himself gracefully through the whole incedent. Congratulations to him for being a champion without a trophy.

To the author's premise that rules are not legalistic, I would suggest another thought. While the article is directed to the clergy, it's final paragraph is a telling sign of the stark reality that when men make rules they will do everything possible to enforce it, even if it means applying God's Name to the gavel. He wrote, "As God's called-out men and women, we must play between the lines. When we venture outside, it will usually cost us. . . .The camera may not be watching, but the One on the throne who calls us is -- and He wrote the "rule book."

May I suggest that God has never written a "rule book" in His life. What He gave to us is a "New Testament" (covenant) which offers grace, mercy, love and forgiveness of our transgressions. Those who want to live by rules will ultimately become SERVANTS OF THE SYSTEM, RATHER THAN SERVANTS OF THE SAVIOR! I am thankful that God forgives me when I fail and does not penalize me for my transgressions of man's rules and regulation.

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17)

Revelation 4 & 5

2010-09-21T18:02:00.001-07:00

Our study in the book of Revelation continues tommorrow night as we get a glorious glimpse of John's view of the Throne of God. Revelation 4 and 5 are the greatest descriptions of heaven in the whole Bible. As G.K Beale said, “The main point of Chapters 4-5 is God’s punitive and redemptive purpose for the world beginning to be accomplished through the death and resurrection of Christ, through whose reign God’s purpose for creation will be consummately executed and divine glory accomplished. The pastoral purpose is to assure suffering Christians that God and Jesus are sovereign and that the events that the Christians are facing are part of a sovereign plan that will culminate in their redemption and the vindication of their persecution.” The purpose of Revelation 4 & 5 is to give us a glimpse into God's domain. Revelation 4:1, “Then as I looked, I saw a door standing open in heaven, and the same voice I had heard before to me with the sound of a mighty trumpet blast. The voice said,”Come up here and I will show you what must happen after these things.”

Daily Promises Devotion

2010-09-20T19:00:00.000-07:00

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3: 6

We must not simply believe that there is an all-powerful God, but we must also live a life of confidence in this hope. We must continually ask for His perfect guidance and immeasurable wisdom throughout our time on this earth. As Christians, we have a distinct honour: if we call upon His great name, He will make our paths straight. If we place ourselves to be under His wonderful direction, we will always benefit from His great kindness and goodness. What a wonderful promise to enjoy!

Daily Promises Devotion

2010-09-20T04:30:00.000-07:00

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing (John 15: 2 - 5).

We cannot do anything without the Lord. He is the vine; and just as the branches receive their life-giving nutrients through the vine, so we as Christians receive the things we need for life from Christ. When a branch is apart from its source of life, it is dead. And so it is with us—until we are grafted onto that eternal and life-giving vine of Christ. We abide in Christ by our faith in Him and the salvation he offers. By this faith, even we shall bear fruit.

Men's Fellowship Breakfast

2010-09-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

The monthly Men's Fellowship Breakfast will take place this Saturday at 8:00 a.m. at Cottondale Community Church. We are looking forward to a great time of food, fun and fellowship. Immediately following the breakfast we will engage in a short period of work on the Upper Room Project. Come out and make this a great day of Christian fellowship.

The Church at Laodicea

2010-09-14T02:44:00.000-07:00

Laodicea was a very, very wealthy city, founded by Antiochus II and named after his wife Laodice. The city was strategically located where three highways converged, thus it was highly commercial. It was well known for its banking industry, its manufacture of black wool and a medical school that produced eye ointment. The wealth in the city had been used to build theaters, a huge stadium, lavish public baths and fabulous shopping centers. Sound familiar? Sounds like any typical American city. So wealthy was this city that when an earthquake almost entirely destroyed it in 60 AD, its wealthy citizens refused help from Rome in rebuilding the city. If you were a real estate agent at the time it wouldn’t be hard to sell Laodicea. It was a great place to live. The land of opportunity. Sound familiar? The only real negative about the place was its lack of an adequate water supply. The church in Laodicea was most likely founded by Paul. He actually wrote a letter to them that was lost (cf. Col. 4:16). It is quite evident from historical accounts that the Christians in Laodicea had become victims of their environment. Indeed, a valuable lesson for us all today!

2010-09-10T22:51:00.000-07:00

The next Food Pantry distribution will be Saturday, September 25th from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. Please come out and participate in this wonderful ministry. You will be blessed abundantly!

Mortgage Burning Ceremony

2010-09-10T22:47:00.001-07:00

Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. will be a special day to celebrate the relief of our mortgage indebtedness. There will be special guest, music, dramas, worship and ministry on that day. We invite friends and family of CCC to join us for this special celebration.

Enough is Enough!

2010-09-10T21:34:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure which is worse a rogue, religious leader who is trying to grab 15 minutes of fame through despicable acts of religious candor or the dotes that feel the need to respond to his foolishness and, thus, prolong his ill-gotten notoriety. We now have a general, a president, numerous religious leaders from around the world, and at least two church organizations that have felt the need to make a public statement calling his actions unwise and un-Christian. The simple facts of this whole fiasco should make the average Christian shake his head in disgust. Here are the facts: there is an insignificant, independent church group in a small corner of the world planning to burn some paper and as a result all hell seems to have broken loose. If the media had not been alerted and the extremists had not been informed and the politically correct had not been aroused, no one would have paid attention to the folly that was planned for September 11, 2010 in Gainsville, FL. NO ONE! But, because someone took issue, this small group of rogues now have an audience on the world's stage. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ ..." (Romans 16: 17 - 18). The Greek word for avoid is ekklino which means "to shun, turn away from and ignore." Had someone been wise enough to ignore the folly of these foolish people, their 15 minutes of fame would have died before it started. But no, our president and politicians and religious leaders felt that their opinions were so important they just had to say something. God forbid that we should quietly go about our business and just do the right thing.

The folly continues, however, as two Pentecostal organizations have now undoubtedly paid money to release a large ad in two insignificant newspapers which will, no doubt, prolong the fleeting fame of this foolish-hearted group. The mere reference to the planned actions in FL only adds credence to their irresponsible cause.

What is so frightening is that the leaders of the world who are responding to this idiocy are supposed to be among the world's intellectually elite. It's enough to make poor simple-minded people like me totally frustrated. What's the world coming to when the best and brightest lower themselves to this level of irrationality.

So here's my plan. The next time you think you need to spend money on a newspaper ad to prolong the fame of someone who believes that "good grammer" is nothing more than a loving grandparent, stop for a moment, take a deep breath, think wisely and then send your excess finances to "The Care Package" c/o Cottondale Community Church, POB 192 Cottondale, AL 35453. We will take your money and spend it on feeding the poor, the hurting and the hungry, and by "visiting the fatherless and widows and do our best to keep ourselves unspotted from the world" (James 1:27). James calls this pure and undefiled religion!

Revelation Study Continues

2010-08-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

Our study of the Book of Revelation will continue tommorrow evening from Chapter 2 as we deal with the subject of the 7 Churches of Asia. Join us at 6:30 p.m. as we embark upon the wonderful journey through God's Word!

The Smiths

2010-08-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

Youth Emphasis Day!

2010-08-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

Today was a special day at CCC! The Youth Department led the congregation into the wondrous throne of God through music, drama and ministry. We were blessed to have Whitney and Crystal Smith as our guest. Crystal shared a dynamic message of God's delivering power. Praise God for a beautiful service devoted to God's mercy.

EVERY MOVE I MAKE

2010-08-27T17:50:00.000-07:00

NEVER GIVE UP IN LIFE!

2010-08-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

A Study in the Book of Revelation

2010-08-25T10:31:00.001-07:00

Tonight, we will begin a new adult study series from the Book of Revelation. This book is a wonderful revelation of the person and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. We invite you to join us at 6:30 p.m. as we delve into the wonders of God's Word.

Double-mindedness

2010-08-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

I recently heard my former pastor preaching via the internet. He is currently the leader of a small, disconnected church organization. As I listened to him preach, I was troubled by the fact that everything he said seemed to be in complete contradiction to the things that I had previously heard him preach from the pulpit and proclaim in private conversations. It seems that the spiritual direction that he had encouraged young men to pursue is no longer the path that he is following. He was, once, a strong voice for breaking down the walls of traditionalism and legalism and ritualism, but now he seems to be espousing the legalistic traditions he once criticized. My old coal mining grandfather would have called him "A WAFFLER!"
Now I know that all of us change from time to time. In fact, I believe that the Scriptures support the notion that if we grow in Christ we will be changed. Paul wrote: "But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18). However, what I heard in the message of my former pastor was not the voice of someone who had changed his viewpoint in a effort to be transformed from glory to glory in the image of Christ. What I heard was someone who had diverted the course of his theological belief back to an unstable and unforgiving stance steeped in legalism. In fact, the message that was preached was completely void of the anointing and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. This may sound harsh and extremely critical but the Bible plainly states that "a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways" (James 1:8b). Those who follow such double-mindedness need to be careful. The Proverbs declare: "Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint" (25:19.

Fish Fry

2010-08-23T17:27:00.001-07:00

The Cottondale United Methodist Church will be sponsoring a Fish Fry, August 28, 2010 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. The proceeds will go to help the Cottondale Community Church Food Pantry. This is a wonderful event that reaches across denominational lines and ministers to the hungry and poor in our community. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children. If you would like to purchase a ticket please contact us at: (205) 553-9413.

An Evening with Brent and Sam

2010-08-23T10:19:00.001-07:00

God Is A Consuming Fire

2010-08-23T10:12:00.001-07:00

GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE!

Sunday's message was taken from Hebrews 12: 18 - 29. The presence of the Lord was evident as we shared the reality that the Throne of God, the Word of God, the Church of God and the Child of God cannot be shaken by the powers of destruction. God's determination for our lives is to consume us with His fire. Paul wrote, "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power. That your faith should not stand inthe wisdom of men, but in the power of God" I Cor. 2: 4-5.

Brent Vernon to visit CCC!

2010-08-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

Brent Vernon will be our guest on Sunday evening, August 22, 2010 at 6 p.m. Join us for a wonderful time in the Lord.

The Journey from Jeanean St. to University Blvd.

2010-08-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

5 years ago we started a journey to relieve the church from it's financial indebtedness. Over $108,000.00 was donated and raised to pay off the mortgage of the Family Life Center. We give God praise that as of August 12, 2010 we are now out from under the burden of a mortgage. We are ready to take the next step to University Blvd. $1100.00 has been donated for a new building fund, with others pledging future donation to help us complete the vision that God gave us in 2004. We are anxiously waiting on God to do His will.

Revival 2010 a Huge Success!!

2010-08-21T15:26:00.000-07:00

We were indeed blessed by the power of God in this great revival. People were moved by the presence of the Holy Spirit and the anointed preaching of God's messenger. We are looking forward to great things in the future for CCC!

Revival 2010

2010-08-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

Great Revival

2010-08-21T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Lord blessed CCC with a great revival. Mike Willingham did a tremendous job preaching the Anointed Gospel each service. The Youth Drama Team delivered powerful sermons and the Worship Team and Musicians led us into God's presence. We were blessed to have Trinity Gospel Trio with us on Wednesday evening, as well as, many other guests. Most of all, we were honored by the Divine Visitation of the Holy Spirit during each altar service. We have been truly blessed by the Lord.

National Day of Repentance Needed!

2010-04-26T12:39:00.001-07:00

An article written by editorialist Cal Thomas expresses some interesting thoughts concerning the controversy over the National Day of Prayer. Here are some excerpts:

The Freedom From religion foundation, a group of atheists and agnostics based in Madison, Wis., filed a lawsuti asking Judege Barbara Crabb to order the government to cease from its annual National Day of Prayer proclamation. Last week, Judge Crabb ruled in the group's favor . . . . Presidents have exhorted the nation to pray since George Washington. During the Civil War Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation as the request of Congress for "a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer" . . . .

Atheists and agnostics have sought to erase "In God We Trust" from our money and eliminate the chaplain offices in the House and Senate. So far they have been unsuccessful, but give them time. As American secularists challenge our declining religious sense they can expect greater success. Are these court rulings the result of our moral decline, or its cause? Politically, presidential prayer proclamations are no more significant than those for national pickle week . . . .

The larger question is: What difference does a national day of prayer make? Does every American pray on that day? If so, to which God? There are many faiths in America, including non-theistic ones. Does a presidential proclamation aim to ask such people to pray to these gods? And if it does, then the entire exercise is meaningless. Sending letters to the same person at diffent addresses would mean that most aren't delivered. . . .

Theologically, this matters Politically it shouldn't. It is of no concern to me if this president, or any president, issues prayer proclamations. I can pray, or not, without government encouragement.

Does it matter to God? Only if our prayers result in changed behavior. Should God be expected to bless a nation that tolerates, even promotes, so much evil?

Perhaps instead of a proclamation for a day of prayer, the president should consider reverting to Lincoln and part of his proclamation that concerned "humiliation," repentance and a plea for forgiveness. According to Scripture, that is a prayer God always hears.

I believe it is time for a National Day of Repentance. It should start with the pulpit, spread to the pews and make it's way to all the people. Only then, will our nation be healed!

Baby Dedication

2010-04-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a very special day at CCC! We were blessed to dedicate Paeton, Aiden and Regan to the Lord in a wonderful dedication service. We continue to pray for these families that the Lord will bless them as they raise these precious children to be ministers in the Kingdom of God.

Great Day!

2010-04-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

What a great day it has been at CCC! We were priviledged to serve approximately 110 families at The Care Package today. The volunteer staff did an outstanding job and the Spirit of God manifested Himself through Christ-like charity and love. It is an honor to truly serve in a ministry that is Christ-centered. If you would like to see the fruits of love in action join us May 8th when we experience God's grace in action. If you would like to be a regular donor to the The Care Package ministry please contact us today at (205) 553-9413.

Great Easter Morning

2010-04-05T17:46:00.001-07:00

We had a great Easter Service at CCC. Beginning with the crucifixion scene at 9:30 a.m. through the Communion and dismissal at 12:00 p.m. the Lord's presence was evidence. There was a large crowd with several guest and church family present. The choir did an excellent job and our muscians are absolutely the best. Special thanks to everyone who helped in the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday. The Lord is doing great things among us. We look forward to His presence as we gather again to worship Him.

Easter Celebration!

2010-03-31T18:18:00.001-07:00

Come join us Sunday morning as we Worship the King of Kings! Sunday school begins at 9:45 a.m. and Morning Worship at 10:30 a.m.

Easter Egg Hunt!

2010-03-31T18:14:00.000-07:00

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, April 3rd from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The children and youth will have special activities to celebrate the holiday weekend. Join us for a great time of food, fun and fellowship.

Easter Choir

2010-02-24T09:25:00.000-08:00

We would like to invite you to join our Easter Choir for a very special presentation on Easter morning. Choir practice is every Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m.

Teen Challenge

2010-02-24T09:23:00.000-08:00

We were blessed to have the men's group from Alabama Teen Challenge join us in worship this past Sunday. The testimonies, dramas and fellowship was outstanding. These men really moved the congregation emotionally by sharing their heart and we pray that the Lord will continue to minister through them as they share the Gospel story.

Annual Valentine's Banquet

2010-02-15T09:17:00.000-08:00

The CCC Annual Banquet was a huge success. Special thanks to our Directors, Gary & Debbie Warren. A special thanks to the men and women who came out to help cook, decorate and prepare the church for wonderful event. We were delighted to have as our guest speaker, Tony Ledbetter and his wife Terri, with us for the evening. Everyone enjoyed the men's rendition of the song "Great Balls of Fire!" Included was an excellent dinner of steak and chicken. We appreciate everyone's participation in the evening's event.

2010-02-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

Valentine"s Banquet

2010-02-15T09:11:00.001-08:00

Galatians 6:6 Conference

2010-02-11T06:15:00.000-08:00

Pastors Pamela & Ron Martin were blessed to attend the Galatians 6:6 Conference at the Winshape Retreat on the campus of Berry College in Rome, GA. The conference was sponsored by Dr. David and Teresa Ferguson of Intimate Life Ministries. Conference facilitators were Drs. John and Su Vining and Dr. and Mrs. Ron Wolford.

It was an excellent conference, staged in a beautiful setting. Each session was filled with Biblical principles designed to strengthen our relationship. We were blessed to meet many ministry couples from various parts of the Southeastern United States. The atmosphere made us feel like we were somebody special.

We would to extend a special thanks to our sponsors, Don & Yvonne Brock. We deeply appreciate their love and friendship.

The Galatians 6:6 Conference was the Best Pastors/Companion Retreat we have ever attended! We would encourage every Pastoral Couple to partcipate in this event. You will be blessed abundantly.

Winshape Retreat

2010-02-11T06:13:00.000-08:00

Church Indebtedness

2010-02-11T06:02:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago the Lord prompted Pastor Ron to mention to the congregation their building indebtedness and ask them to pray that God would help us to pay down the amount by the end of 2010. The Lord responded by touching the hearts of others in the congregation. A special thanks goes to Dan & Shelia Cardin for their donation in memory of their daughter Amy and also to another contributor who wishes to remain anonymous. Through their efforts the remaining debt of $18,000 is now down to $7,000. The original amount of the building debt when Pastor Ron started the Journey from Jenean St. to University Blvd. Program was $103,000. We praise God for eveyone who has contributed to this program and reduced our indebtedness. We are looking forward to a Mortgage Burning Celebration in the near future!

In Memory of Amy

2010-02-11T05:58:00.000-08:00

Offering Challenge!

2010-02-11T05:53:00.001-08:00

The CCC responded to an offering challenge during the month of January. A private donor was willing to match funds for every dollar raised by the congregation for the Food Pantry. The offering for this venture was received last Sunday morning after a special presentation by our event coordinator, Linda Griffith. We thank God for a total offering of $2000. This amount will be matched by our generous donor. To God be the Glory!

Food Pantry News!

2010-02-11T05:50:00.000-08:00

The Care Package Food Pantry served 108 families on February 6, 2010. There was tremendous turn-out of volunteers and the Lord blessed us to circulate the families through the line quickly in spite of frigid temperatures.

2010-01-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Tommorrow's sermon is entitled, "Stop, Look, Listen & Learn!" In 1982, "ABC Evening News" reported on an unusual work of art - a chair attached to a shotgun. It was viewed by sitting in the chair and looking directly into the gun barrel. The gun was loaded and was set on a time to fire at an undetermined moment within the next 100 years. The amazing thing was that people waited in lines to sit and stare into the shell's path. They all knew the gun could off at point-blank range at any moment, but they were gambling that the fatal blast wouldn't happen during their minute in the chair.

The story seems hard to believe. Why would anyone be so insane as to volunteer to stare down the barrel of a loaded gun? The fact of the matter is many are doing something just as bad. Living a life of rebellion against God. They know that they are not living according to God's will. They have the mindset that we serve a God of love. This is true, but we also serve a God of righteouseness and contrary to popular believe You Can't Sin And Get By!

God wants us to Stop, Look, Listen and Learn His will for our lives. Jesus corrected His disciples by saying, "Having eyes, do you not see? And heaving ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?" God has performed many miracles in our lives. Let's not forget that He is the One True God and is deserving of our obedience.

Small Group Meeting

2010-01-25T08:34:00.000-08:00

A CCC Small Group Meeting was held in the home of Yvonne Dewberry last evening. There was a tremendous turn out, as well as, food and fellowship. Our special guest for the evening was Jason and Teresa Heacox. The Lord blessed us and ministered to us throughout the entire gathering. We are blessed to have the Heacox family as a part of CCC!

2010-01-25T08:32:00.001-08:00

Great Day at CCC!

2010-01-25T08:19:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful outpouring of God's presence yesterday. The Lord expressed His love tremendously throughout the day. We honored to have Dr. H. E. Carden as our guest for the morning's service. He shared some wonderful insight on How To Hear God's Voice. Through Availability, Belief and Commitment we are tuning our ear to what God has in store for us.

To God Be The Glory! Great Things He Has Done!!

Dr. H. E. Cardin

2010-01-22T10:19:00.000-08:00

Dr. H. E. Cardin, director for the Tomlinson Center, will be our guest speaker this coming Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Join us for a wonderful celebration of worship and praise to the Almighty God.

The Lord is Our God, The Lord is One!

2010-01-18T12:35:00.001-08:00

In this multi-cultural world we live in we are told that while there may be just One God, there are many paths that lead to the Creator of all things. The Bible is clear that there is One God and One Path to obtaining a relationship with Him.

Deuteronomy 6: 4 - 5 or THE SHEMA is the prayer and pronouncement of God's people that we acknowledge His Lordship and Unity. There are not many gods, nor are there many ways to God. Jesus Christ, the Son of God and God Himself is the True and Living Way!

Join us each Sunday as we proclaim together SHEMA YISRAEL ADONAI ELOHEINU ADONAI ECHAD - Hear, O Israel, The Lord is our God, the Lord is One!

Youth Emphasis Day

2010-01-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

The Lord invited us into His presence today as the Youth Department ministered throughout the morning service. Youth Leader Jerry Boatwright moderated a great program as we showcased the wonderful talents of our youth. Special highlights were the newly formed Youth Choir, Revived (Drama Team), Daniel Barnett and Aaron Martin. The morning concluded with a special time of prayer and fellowship around the altar. Special thanks to everyone who participated in the days events. We are looking forward to many more days like this.

2010-01-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

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2010-01-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

Congratulations PJ and Valyn

2010-01-08T12:14:00.001-08:00

After 10 years of marriage P.J. and Valyn Behan re-dedicated their wedding covenant in a beautiful ceremony on New Year's Day. Congratulations to the happy couple. We wish them many more years of marital joy and peace.

Youth Emphasis Sunday

2010-01-08T11:55:00.001-08:00

This coming Sunday morning, January 10th at 10:30 a.m. we will observe Youth Emphasis Day. Our youth will be in charge of the service throughout the entire morning. Join us as we honor the youth of CCC!

2010-01-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

We have started a wonderful Bible study on Wednesday night using the the book, Breaking Free, by Beth Moore as our text. We dealt with life lessons from 2 Chronicles 26, using the story of Uzziah and Jotham as our guide. If you would like to participate in this study, then please join us every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Copies of the manual can be purchased from Lifeway Bookstore in Tuscaloosa for $14.95.

Our key verses were, "And he did what was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah had done. He sought God in the days of Zechariah who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper" (2 Chron. 26: 4 - 5).

21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

2010-01-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

CCC is engaged in a time of prayer and fasting which began New Year's Day. If you would like to join us in this time of corporate devotion we encourage you to do so. We are seeking God for His divine direction during this time. We are also engaging in personal sacrifice and dedication so that we may humbly follow Him.

Child Killed by Gunfire - Pray for the Family!

2010-01-02T07:38:00.000-08:00

4-year-old Marquel Peters was shot and killed by celebratory gunfire at a New Year's Eve service at the Decatur, GA Church of God of Prophecy. Please pray for the family and friends of this beautiful child. For more on the story click on the link below:

http://www.ajc.com/news/dekable/4-year-old-killed-264602.html

2010-01-01T06:08:00.001-08:00

Christmas Program Pictures

2009-12-31T12:12:00.000-08:00

Photobucket did not do a good job downloading our slideshow to the blog, so we are listing individual pictures for your enjoyment.

2009-12-31T12:02:00.000-08:00

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2009-12-31T11:57:00.000-08:00

2009-12-31T11:53:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World 09

2009-12-28T10:35:00.001-08:00

2009-12-28T10:34:00.001-08:00

2009-12-25T06:14:00.000-08:00

2009-12-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE MARTIN FAMILY!

2009-12-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

From the Pastor

2009-12-22T06:38:00.001-08:00

As I spent time celebrating an early Christmas with my wife and children last evening, I couldn't help but be touched by the fact that I believe that I am the most blessed individual on the face of the planet. Everyday, God extends His mercy and grace into my life and I realize how I am truly loved. There is no greater time of the year to stop and take an assessment of God's gifts than during Christmas. His gifts rarely come wrapped in ribbons and bows, but they are seen in the beauty of friends and family. Take time this year to be thankful for the most precious gift ever given - His Only Begotten Son. It's never too late to receive this gift with gratitude and love. Merry Christmas to one and all!

Joy to the World!

2009-12-22T06:29:00.001-08:00

Our annual Christmas Musical was entitled, Joy to the World! It truly was a joyous day as the Lord broke through and blessed our celebration of His birth. The choir, musicians and actors did an excellent job presenting the Christmas story to a crowd of 170.

Thanks to everyone who made this day special. We hope to show you more pictures of the day as they are submitted for publication.

The Care Package

2009-12-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

The Care Package Food Pantry, a ministry of CCC, was active this holiday season in distributing food to the needy. This month's distribution broke records and the Lord blessed us to have enough food to help those who stood in line for over an hour in 30 degree temperature.

Through God's help we were able to supply over 450 people with food for the holiday. This is the largest number of people we have ever helped at one time. We give honor to God for His grace and provisions.

The need continues to grow. We are desperately looking for more contributers to fund this ministry. 100% of all the money received is used to purchase food. If you would like to donate to this ministry please contact us at: (205) 553 - 9413.

Stuffed Animal Give-Away

2009-12-22T06:16:00.001-08:00

Derry Meade and crew were blessed to organize and participate in another Stuffed Animal Give-Away. This ministry has continued to grow every year. The team was able to visit 7 nursing home & assisted living residence and distribute over 1200 stuffed animals to the residents. It was also a special time to share the gospel message with each visit and to wish those who are restricted by age and health a Very, Merry Christmas! Thanks to everyone who donate and participated in this endeavor.

Secret Sister Party '09

2009-12-22T06:13:00.000-08:00

The ladies from CCC had a wonderful evening at their annual secret sister party. The event was hosted in the home of Yvonne Dewberry and the evening was a great celebration of food, fun and fellowship. Special thanks to Linda Griffith and Pamela Martin for putting the activity together. The ladies are looking forward to more of these great events in the near future.

2009-12-22T06:12:00.001-08:00

Mr. & Mrs. William Curry

2009-12-07T16:29:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to 5 and Liz on their recent wedding. They make a great couple and truly the Lord has brought them and their families together. We are blessed to have this family as a part of our community of faith. May God richly bless their marriage for many years to come.

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!

2009-12-07T16:25:00.001-08:00

Ron & Pamela would like to extend early Christmas greetings to everyone! There is no holiday like Christmas. Spending time with friends and family make this the perfect time of the year. Greater still, is the acknowledgement of Christ's coming and His redemptive work. We honor Him and invite everyone to find a joyous relationship with The Creator of all Life.

The True Light

2009-12-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

The Gospel of John tells us that Jesus Christ is the True Light, who brings life and light to all who wander in darkness. Modern Christianity is filled with teachers and preachers who have abandoned sound teaching and doctrine. Things like modalism, iconaclism, eternal security, predestination, serpent seed and prosperity teachings have de-valued the work of Christ on the Cross and have confused some into believing heretical practices. One of the greatest hinderances to the Gospel has been the emergence of TV evangelism. In and of itself, not necessarily evil, but too many lazy Christians will watch Christian TV instead of reading their Bibles, and will accept anything that comes out of the mouth of false teachers just because they mention the name of Jesus or sing gospel music.

There's nothing wrong with listening to good sound TV minsters. But as a safeguard, why not use your Bible while you're listening to them as a guide to determine whether they are teaching sound doctrine. I enjoy hearing men like Billy Wilson, Jentzen Franklin, Tony Evans, David Jeremiah and Billy Graham. But if the words they speak are not Biblically based then I would not be willing to embrace their teaching.

Jesus came to bring light to a fallen world. He is the one and only True Light.

Welcome to our Family!

2009-12-03T13:54:00.000-08:00

CCC would like to welcome Regan Curry White to our family. She is a beautiful, healthy girl and we are blessed to have her as a part of our family. Thank God for this precious little gift.

Stuffed Animals

2009-11-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

Derry Meade has already collected over 1000 stuffed animals to be given away to the nursing homes during the Christmas season. We still need more to help accomodate all the facilities. If you would like to donate or contribute stuffed animal to this ministry you can contact us by calling: (205) 553-9413. Office hours are every Wednesday from 9:30 to 2:30.

Give Thanks 4 Everything!

2009-11-30T06:37:00.000-08:00

There is a true story of GIs stationed in the Philippines during WW II. Although the region was secure, sometimes the enemy tried to infiltrate their food storage area. One such adversary, dressed in GI clothing, had worked himself into the noontime chow line. But the camp cook spotted him, pulled a pistol from under the serving table and yelled for the MPs to come and arrest the man.After it was all over, the soldiers asked the cook how he knew the man wasn’t one of them."I figured it wasn’t one of you guys, ’cause he was coming back for seconds."

(Reader’s Digest 5/93, p.46)

What gave the enemy away? He was grateful for all the food he could get.He was thankful for the food no one else wanted. Being thankful was what set him apart.

In Ephesians 5, God tells us He wants us to stand out. He wants us to be known for something. He wants us to be known for being thankful.

Ephesians 5:20 says we should be “always GIVING THANKS to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Colossians 3:17 tells us “whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, GIVING THANKS to God the Father through him.”

And 1 Thessalonians 5:18 evens says we should “GIVE THANKS in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”