We’re in the dog days of summer here in the upper midwest. It’s hot! I learned the other day that the corn fields around here contribute to the oppressive humidity we get as the water they produce evaporates into the atmosphere—fascinating!

Though the weather is hot, church ministry during the summer is often cool, cool in the sense of being unproductive. Members go on vacation, families are occupied with travel sports on the weekends, and many church programs take a summer break. I imagine these factors contribute to the summer melancholy pastors and ministry leaders feel.

If that’s you, use the articles of this issue to find encouragement in the Lord Jesus Christ! The feature articles include a conference report and transcript of Clare Jewell’s message, “Look Up!” Other articles have been selected specifically for their value in life and ministry. May these articles sustain you through the rest of the summer months.

—Matt Olmstead

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In the Summer 2025 issue

FEATURES

JESUS OVER EVERYTHING
The 2025 GARBC Conference, themed “Jesus Over Everything,” gathered 354 attendees from 127 churches for four days of preaching, workshops, and fellowship. Read a summary of speaker messages and fellowship highlights.
by Greg Linscott

LOOK UP
National Representative Clare Jewell gave a powerful message at the 2025 GARBC Conference. Read an edited transcript to see how he encouraged pastors and church leaders to look up at Jesus.
by Clare Jewell

LIFE AND MINISTRY

THE MINISTRY OF DEACONS
Deacons serve the church by meeting practical needs, supporting pastors, and modeling gospel-centered living with integrity, compassion, and commitment to Christ’s mission and unity. Read as one Iowa pastor reminds fellow pastors of the vital role deacons play in the mission of the local church.
by Will Hatfield

AI AND MINISTRY: POSSIBILITIES AND PITFALLS
AI is an already-present technology that is affecting the life of the church. Read of the capabilities and cautions recently presented a Refresh Conference 2025.
by Paul Hartog

THE SOURCE OF RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
Where does religious liberty come from? The answer might surprise you.
by Jay Lucas

LIVING FOR AN AUDIENCE OF ONE
Find simple encouragement in the reminder that Christians must find true peace and purpose by valuing God’s opinion above all.
by Brian Cederquist

DEPARTMENTS

SOUNDBYTES
News from Regular Baptist churches and Regular Baptist Ministries
by Melissa Meyer

LETTERS TO REGULAR BAPTIST MINISTRIES
What people are saying about Regular Baptist Ministries

DIRECTORY OF MINISTRIES AND BULLETIN BOARD
Regular Baptist Ministries contact info, classifieds, and products and services