Over the past few months, we have become burdened with the vision of obtaining a travel trailer, for the express purpose of baptisms.

That’s right! We want to convert the trailer into a portable baptistery!

Many denominations have presented water baptism as an outward sign, intended to signify that the new “believer” has accepted the Lord into his heart. You and I know that the Bible emphatically teaches that it is for the “remission of sins.”

Therefore, if baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins, then we must also conclude that it is an essential part of salvation. Consequently, we cannot over emphasis the fact that this event should never be postponed, once revealed. Solomon once said, “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”

Take the story where Paul and Silas were in prison.  The Bible says that immediately after the doors of the prison were opened, and everyone’s bands were loosed, Paul spoke to the bewildered and suicidal jail keeper. Leading him to the only Name, under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved. Paul further spake the word of the Lord to all that were in the house. And the Bible says, “He took them the same hour of the night…” 

He didn’t wait for his bruises and abrasions to heal. He didn’t wait until morning so he and Silas could get a good night’s rest. Paul knew the necessity of water baptism. Therefore, he took them to the water right away, calling on the name of the Lord. What an example of the urgency that this apostle connected to water baptism!

How about the Ethiopian Eunuch that was baptized in the dessert? As Phillip approaches, he hears the man reading from the writings of the prophet Isaiah.  And he asks the eunuch if he understands what he is reading. To which he responds, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” And the Bible says that Phillip preached unto him Jesus. (Right there in the chariot… he didn’t wait until the next church service… he knew the urgency of this life changing message).

And when they were passing by a body of water, the eunuch pointed to it, and asked what would keep him from being baptized. Phillip stops the chariot, takes the man to the water, and baptizes him in the name of Jesus Christ.

The entire book of Acts is replete with examples of just how important water baptism was in the lives and ministry of the first century church.  

Allow me to switch gears, and ask a few questions: When was the last time you heard a convicting message about water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ? How many people, in your church, were baptized in 2007? Is this still an essential part of the plan of salvation? The answer is an affirmative, "YES!"

We all believe the message contained in Acts 2:38!  In order to properly preach this message throughout our cities, we must believe that people will respond. That’s the ultimate intent, right? We want people to respond to the life changing message of Jesus Christ!

This creates a dilemma for those that are preaching the gospel in any area other than a church building: There are no public baptisteries! But it’s time to make them available in every city!

How can this be done? One portable baptistery at a time! One trailer at a time!

I realize that to some purchasing an expensive trailer just for the purpose of baptisms seems like a misappropriation of finances….. However, I believe by "not" purchasing these baptisteries, we are in danger of misappropriating the money God has allowed us to handle.

God expects His people to do all they can, and then, He will do what only He can do!

What could happen in our cities if we had a portable baptistery? A place that was not subject to inclement weather, where people could be baptized and immediately connected to the local church? The results could be staggering! This has the potential of reaching hundreds of thousands in a short period of time.

We will take this trailer into the neighborhoods, the streets, and on the college campuses of every city we visit. It will have an area designated for changing clothes and to pray. A stereo system will be installed so that we are able to create a spiritual environment. Finally, we will have Bible studies, videos, and a host of other items available for each person that we baptize.

Street evangelism is an area that demands our immediate attention! We must take drastic actions! Let’s work together to see great things happen in our world, and in our cities!!

We would like for you to please consider partnering with us in this great ministry! The total cost for this project will be approximately $20,000. This includes the trailer, a used SUV to pull it on a full-time basis, and all the necessities to see this vision become a reality for every city!

This is a substantial amount of money, but, with the help of our friends and fellow ministers, this becomes a simple task. Your contribution will be directly applied to this project, and a detailed list of expenses will be available at the time of purchase.

In an effort to personalize this partnership, we will ensure that you receive a list of all the people that are baptized in this trailer for the next 24 months!

Just think that your contribution will be directly connected with thousands of conversions!!!

Donations can be made in any amount via pay pal, personal check, money order, or cash. If you have any questions, please email us at kacook6@hotmail.com, or call us at 936-465-1020. Payments can be sent to Ken Cook, 21486 Forest Colony, Porter, Texas 77365.

Thanks for your partnership! It cannot happen without you!

2007 has been a significant year in our lives, and we trust that it has been in yours, as well.  We wish you the best during this holiday season, and encourage you to cherish each moment!

In the midst of all of the excitement and splendor that Christmas brings into our lives….. we must make sure that our focus remains upon Jesus Christ!

Although the holiday season is often welcomed by a time of relaxation, fun, and great food; the fact remains that people are still lost, and in need of salvation!  And what better time to reach them than right now?

Resist the urge to be consumed by the commercialization of this festive season.  Don't be trapped like millions of other Christians who feel obliged to make large purchases.  These pressured expenditures only add to the "already" staggering debt in many of our lives.

Do something this holiday season that you will never regret!  Reach for the lost!  Give to the poor! Evangelize your city! Feed the homeless! And last but not least, challenge all of your Christian friends to do the same! 

We love and appreciate each and every one of you, and pray that you are doing well during this beautiful time of the year!

Reaching out to your family is exciting, and a pair of cousins here in Knoxville have taken this task to a new level! Wednesday night, we learned that Carl and Beverly, along with their spouses, have been teaching Bible Studies to their family members, up to 20 people at a time! 

Thursday night, we were privileged to be a part as 7 were baptized in the name of Jesus! Many other family members came to support those being baptized. In fact, the presence of God was so awesome, three people were baptized who hadn't planned to do so when they came! Check out the pictures in our photo section, under Knoxville Family Baptism.

Carl and Beverly are a great example of reaching the lost…including those who are most important in our lives!  

Great things are taking place in Knoxville, Tennessee!  New Life Deliverance Ministries, pastored by Jaymes Tharp, is on a collision course with extreme revival and growth!  

Outside of pulpit ministry, we have been able to assist in the restructuring process of several ministries within this unique church.  The Wings Of Freedom (an umbrella name for various ministries), has established an effective class that meets one night a week for one hour.  This class has the potential of becoming the foundation from which an enormous in gathering of hurting people will take place.

Mom & Pop Watson are the main instructors/facilitators for this class, and they are incredible!  They have weathered many storms in life, and have come out on top of them all (with the help of the Lord). They have a tremendous story of overcoming adversity, and we look forward to hosting their testimony on this site, in the days ahead.

We have experienced many fantastic services, and the Lord has performed mightily in them all.  Many have been baptized, and many have received the Holy Ghost!  To God be the glory!

New Life is in the process of relocating into an enormous church building!  I will post these pictures over the next several days.  Pastor Tharp has great vision for the direction of this church, and he is taking the proper steps to see this vision come into fruition!

Bishop and Sister Tharp are also involved in the inner workings of this assembly.  They have been involved in pastoral ministry for many years, and have served in various capacities throughout our movement. 

Recently, Julie and I had the opportunity of spending time with them in their home.  They are extraordinary examples of what ministry is all about!  Their unblemished characters have exemplified true Christianity for many years.  (What an honor it is to spend time with this caliber of people!)

We are currently in the middle of a youth outreach endeavor that will last for six weeks!  During this six week process, we have clearly set the vision for this youth group to reach 25 new people each week.

With 150 first time visitors over the following six weeks, this youth group will be off the chain!  Let me rephrase that, "they already are!"  These young people don't hold back when it comes to praise and worship….  They give themselves fully to each service!  We love this youth group!

If you are tired of tradition and feeling trapped by religion, look no further.  You owe it to yourself to come to at least one service!  You won't be disappointed!   

Last weekend, we had two tremendous services in Zanesville, Ohio. These people are real friends. The youth group is so respectful, and the adults are always ready to "have church!"

The morning service was exciting and inspiring and set the stage for the beautiful wedding afterwards. That's right…wedding!

Mike and Becky were married following the service. They have made huge strides in their walk with God and we're so proud of them. What a great addition they have made to this church body!

Following the wedding, Becky's cousin, Tonya, came to the altar, crying. She felt the presence of God during the morning service and had hesitated, but could wait no longer. After repenting, she was baptized in Jesus name….during the wedding reception!!!

That evening, God spoke specifically to the church and they received it 100%! What an incredible time we had together in the Lord. The praise and worship service was beautiful and the environment was set for an awesome visitation of the Holy Ghost. I believe that many people left that service prepared to fulfill their God-called position in life.

During the evening service, one of the ladies began a victory march around the sanctuary. The Pastor told me that she was recently diagnosed with cancer and he wanted to pray for her. When she made her way near the platform, Pastor Richard and I prayed for a miraculous healing to occur in her body.

Monday, she arrived at the doctor's office for further tests and additional x-rays. Afterwards the doctor concluded, "I don't know what has happened, the cancer can clearly be seen in the first x-ray. However, this new x-ray reveals that the cancer is no longer present." After additional tests, she was declared "cancer free."

In the past few months, we've witnessed bulging discs healed, deaf ears opened, and two people miraculously healed of cancer! 

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!   

The return of Laramie and Cletus was in full force last weekend. Laramie (Ken Cook) and Cletus (Johnny Perry) are two characters who were developed in a cul-de-sac in Lufkin, Texas. 

With a natural knack for entertainment, Johnny Perry (Assistant Pastor at Cornerstone UPC in Lufkin, Texas) has been a "funny guy" for many years. His ability to capture the audience's attention and make them laugh has always been a source of fun for friends and family. 

Johnny and I were neighbors in Lufkin and spent many late nights, outside in the driveway, joking and acting out these hilarious personalities. Before long, Laramie and Cletus became well known and we found it difficult to refrain from these alter personalities, even in serious moments!

Last week, Laramie and Cletus performed the entertainment for a great group of people, pastored by Bro. David Richard. The banquet was incredible and the church enjoyed this time of celebration and fellowship.

We will have a portion of this skit on our website soon. Laramie and Cletus can be scheduled for special events for 2008 via Ken's email or cell phone.
 

With a rich Scottish drawl, the beloved senate chaplain captured the mood of this night on the English stage. The audience, chatting amiably, drifts to their seats.

In starched shirts and tuxedos, the orchestra drone in monotonous tuning. Stage hands scurry behind the heavy curtain, checking props, ropes and making last minute adjustments. Players mumble difficult lines as aides help adjust their colorful costumes. Finally, as the lights lower, the orchestra receives the determined tap of its conductor, then swings softly into a familiar overture.

The orchestra had performed together hundreds of times and usually played on a level somewhere close to perfection. This orchestra was as fine tuned as any machinery of its days. They knew one another’s strengths and weaknesses, and could subconsciously cover for any mistake another member might make during the production.

But this night was not a normal night. There was something unique and noteworthy about this night. What was it about this night that made the stage hands, producers, directors and even the audience stand in amazement and awe? Could there be an intruder who had skillfully made it past security and triggered some kind of fear throughout the crowd?

And suddenly, these words come forth:

"Switch to the national anthem. Switch to the national anthem!"

From one member of the orchestra to the next, the whispered orders traveled quickly across the stage and in what was described as “enchanting and delightful”, the swelling and stately strains of the national anthem began to fill the old English theatre. It was said that the stage manager ran throughout the actors whispering excitedly, “Give it all you’ve got tonight!"

"Why?” asked the anxious crew.

“Because King George has just come in…the King is in the audience!”

As the story goes, the show on this night was superlative. What a difference in the way these men and women played! The audience that night was mesmerized by their intensity and enthusiasm. The music was astonishing! The passion level was unparalleled!

With this story fresh in mind, allow me to ask you this question, “Who’s in the audience of your life?"

William Shakespeare said, “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts".

If indeed we are playing out our lives on this stage called "life". Then it becomes vitally important that we know who it is that we are playing before. When God is the only audience you are concerned about, then your life will take on new meaning. It’s time to live as though the King is in the audience!

En route to Knoxville, Tennessee, we experienced a series of incredibly adverse situations. On highway 75, just north of Knoxville, the back rear-passenger tire on our fifth wheel blew out. The tire cap broke the entire back fender/molding that extends from the tires to the back of the trailer. This was just the beginning…………..

We located a tire shop, and agreed to have all four replaced. With five hours left until the evening service, we had plenty of time to get fixed up and get on our way! Well, that’s what we thought would take place, at least.

After an hour at the tire dealership, the nice gentleman that quoted us the initial price on the tires, said that he “discovered a problem.” He said that the price he initially quoted for four tires, was substantially lower than what he could sell the tires for, and that the difference would be approximately $75 higher per tire.

After utilizing the GPS, we discovered that another tire shop (on the other side of town), could sell us a set of four tires for $160 less than this company. We kindly asked them to place the spare tire on our trailer, and we were on our way across Knoxville to save money.

That’s when we realized that we were approximately 3 1/2 hours away from church service, and decided to purchase the tires the following morning. We finally arrived at New Life Ministries, and in a matter of time we would be able to set up our fifth wheel, and relax a few minutes before church.

Wrong! The moment that we plugged our electricity into the outlet at the church, the changeover box burned, and we lost all electricity to the trailer! This was not cool! We had to find an RV repair shop, and pull our wounded fifth wheel back across town.

Arriving at the repair shop at 5:45 PM, the manager took a look at our problem, and said that he could get to it some time the following day. Luckily there was a hotel across the street…We could relax for the night, have them fix the problem, which we thought would be minimal, and we could get started the next afternoon.

We discovered that the business closed at 6 PM. As I made my way to the gate, I spoke with one of employees, who advised me that only one gate was still open, and it was at the opposite end of the parking lot. As I walked in that direction, he drove there in his golf cart (Mr. Employee, if you are reading this, please know that you are a dork…. Thanks for not asking me for a ride).

I made it to the hotel, checked in, and came back over to meet with Julie who was still at the trailer, grabbing some clothes for the night. Noticing that she was on the ground, I thought she had fallen. I quickly realized that she had gotten down on her hands and knees, and crawled under the fence…. It was her only escape! LOL! Thanks again, Mr. Dork Employee.

At this point, it was around 6:20 PM. And there was still one problem… we had to leave the truck attached to the trailer at the shop. I was able to contact one of the men from the church, who sent someone to pick me up.

Julie and I decided that there was only time for one of us to get ready and since I was preaching, it would only be appropriate I for me to go! So my lovely wife took the evening off and relaxed at the hotel.

I was ready in record speed, and out the door at 6:45 PM. I still had 15 minutes until church! Sounded great, at first…until I realized that my ride had not arrived. We finally made it to church…at 7:05PM!

The service was fantastic, and the presence of the Lord was simply wonderful. A sweet teenage girl received the Holy Ghost! The entire youth group has been very active in the altar service.The next day, we were able to pick our fifth wheel up, and try this once again. However, the damage was substantial, and they decided that I would have to pay $568, if I wanted to sleep in my trailer ever again.

We decided that the $568 was not an option, and so we paid the repair shop, and headed down the street. Our next stop would be the tire shop. After getting four new tires, we were en route to the church. Thankfully, one of the young men installed a 30 amp breaker, and we were up and running by 6 PM.

Surely, this would be the end to the nightmare at hand. Wrong! The next day, I was driving a vehicle that was just purchased by a man in the church. I failed to notice that the plates on this convertible BMW were last inspected in 2005.

I dropped this man off at his house, and headed back for the church. Two hours later, I was still trying to find my way back… This was only a three minute drive (they said). After an extended time on what seemed to be every highway in Tennessee, I stopped at a fast food restaurant. As I exited the vehicle, two kind police officers were approaching me, and motioning for my attention. What next!

These nice officers, asked me when I last inspected my car? As I attempted to explain that the car belonged to someone else, they received a call from dispatch that advised them that the plates on this nice, convertible BMW belonged to an old white Chevrolet pickup truck.

I tried to explain to them that I had no idea that the car had not been inspected, and that the plates were supposed to be on a white pickup truck. I am sure that they had heard this before! Well, they told me that unless I was able to furnish a ticket, or a proof of purchase from that day, that I was in a lot of trouble.

Guess what? There was nothing in the car! I suggested that we telephone the owner, and ask him to explain the situation. After three calls, I made contact with the owner, who began to laugh. After assuring him that I was serious, he asked to speak to the officers. After a few minutes of warning me about what could have happened… these kind officers allowed to me to drive the car. “Go straight to the church,” they said. Well, that sounded good. One problem… where is the church?

To bring this to an end, I must declare that I made it back to the church after three hours, safe and not in handcuffs!

Can we please start this week all over again?