It is with humble gratitude to the Lord that I begin the pastorate at First Baptist Church of South Hill, Virginia as of February 21, 2021. I pray that we all grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18) in our mutual experience as brothers and sisters in Christ.
It is my goal to give glory to the Lord in whatever I do and in whatever is done at our church or from our church. The Apostle Paul wrote, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (2 Corinthians 10:31). This should be our driving force. This also guards us from pride, self-seeking, and pettiness.Our focus must be on God’s glory and on us growing to become more like our Lord Jesus Christ — for our good, for the good of others, and for the Lord’s glory. The chief end of mankind is to glorify God, and this should be our personal goal and the utmost goal for our church. The motivation of love for the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength makes this goal more likely and sincere (Mark 12:30).
I want to encourage everyone to keep this before us as we go forward in our fellowship with one another. As we grow in our faith, let us do so because we love the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). As we love our Lord, love each other, and live our Christian lives, let us do so for the glory of God.
He deserves the glory. Soli Deo Gloria.
~Pastor Steve Battaglia, April 1, 2021 