Out in the West Texas town of Dumas, Heath was born and raised.  Most of his family still live in the Texas Panhandle.   In seventh grade God placed a call on his life to surrender to vocational ministry.  Immediately he began to be involved in every aspect of church life possible, which allowed him to preach his first message at age 15.

God has taken Heath on a  great faith journey that has brought him out of deep legalism and fundamentalism.  Moving from works and trying to earn God ‘s favor to resting in God’s grace has been one of the great markers in his personal journey.  This radical change frees people to love and enjoy God on a deeper, higher, and authentic level.

God has graced Heath with a  beautiful wife who is extremely gifted and an enourmous blessing.  They have four fantastic kids, Abbi age 10, Hannah age 7, Emma age 5, and Xander age 3.  Heath has served as a youth pastor in Springfield, MO and in Richardson, TX.  He has also served as Lead Pastor in Decatur, TX.

God has given Heath the opportunity to attend Dallas Theological Seminary and earn a D.Min. in Large Church Leadership. While at DTS, he was able to study church consulting with Dr. Aubrey Malphurs.  Other degrees include a M.Div. emphasis in counseling, a M.A. in Biblical Studies, a B.A. in Pastoral Leadership and Theology from Baptist Bible College.

My favorite character in the Bible is: Joseph

My life verse is: Jerm. 33;3 and Prov. 3:5-6

I’m happiest when: Hanging with my family

On my iPod: Motions by Matthew West, You Found Me by Big Daddy Weave, Give Me Your Eyes by Brandon Heath

The one book (besides the Bible) I’d recommend to anyone is: Too Busy Not To Pray by Bill Hybels

I’m most excited about: good Hamburgers, Steaks, and my spiritual answer- Life Change

My trademark expression is: “Go God!”

The team I root for most is: Texas Rangers, UT

In my free time, I: enjoy playing with my kids

My favorite TV show is: it was 24, I just don’t know what the world will do with out Jack Bauer

Cody Schwartz is a Grand Prairie native with a Bachelor of Music degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.  He has been a professional musician and educator for 20 years.  He has served at numerous churches, including First Baptist Euless, First Baptist Dallas, Southcliff Baptist, Valley Ranch Baptist Church, and First Baptist Nacogdoches. 

Cody was saved at the age of 17 at Trailwood Baptist Church in Grand Prairie.  He went on to major in music and dedicate his life to serve the Lord in any capacity.  He married Kimberly Kirby in 1996 and they now have two children, Kimberlyn (age 6) and Kirby (age 4).  Cody loves spending time with his family and watching the kids grow.

Cody owns his own entertainment business and still performs weddings and concerts on occasion.  He has two CDs released, “Jesus Loves Me” and “A Starlit Journey.” 

My favorite character in the Bible is:  David
 
My life verse is: Psalm 150:6 “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!”
 
Nobody knows that I: want to be a Disco era bass player
 
I’m happiest when: I’m with my family
 
On my iPod: Israel Houghton, Sinatra, Michael Buble`
 
The one book (besides the Bible) I’d recommend to anyone is: The Lord of the Rings
 
 I’m most excited about: Seeiing God honor our steps of faith
 
My trademark expression is: “Is it in Ministry Scheduler?”

Ryan grew up in the northeast US in a Christian home as a Navy brat. After his dad got out of the Navy, he moved around a few times before settling in Delaware. He graduated from Caesar Rodney High School and wanted to go to Pennsylvania to play baseball, but God had other plans.  He attended and graduated from Baptist Bible College, in Springfield, MO, with a B.A. in Missions. He accepted Christ during his  first semester and decided to pursue God through ministry with the rest of his life. After his first year at college, he traveled with LIFT Student Ministries, a Christian camp around the country, and met Cassie, who 2 years later would become his wife. This fall he plans to continue his education through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary Online, based in Lynchburg, VA, looking for a Masters in Pastoral Counseling. He and Cassie are expecting their first child this Christmas and they are excited about sharing the love of Christ to the students of Grand Prairie.

My favorite character in the Bible is:  The Apostle John

My life verse is: “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” James 4:14-15 (ESV)

Nobody knows that I: Secretly wish to be an Opera Singer.

I’m happiest when: I’m eating at IHOP with Cassie. Breakfast is not only the most important meal, it’s the only meal that truly matters. And pancakes are the best food of all time!

On my iPod: An incredible mixture of Lecrae, Sho Baraka, and Luciano Pavarotti.

The one book (besides the Bible) I’d recommend to anyone is: “God on Mute” by Pete Greig

I’m most excited about: The birth of our first child this Christmastime

My trademark expression is: “Whoop, there it is”

The team I root for most is: Clemson Tigers!

My proudest moment is: Marrying Cassie

The one blog I read regularly is: Doug Fields’ Youth Ministry

My favorite childhood memory is: Playing baseball with my dad

In my free time, I: Free time? What is that?

My favorite TV show is: “Friday Night Lights”, “Are you Smarter than a Fifth Grader?”

Mark Schwartz Associate Pastor

Mark was raised in a small town in Kansas.  He attended Baptist Bible College and met his wife Tiffany there.  He has three children: Chase, Cavin, and Callie.  He has been a successful volleyball coach leading his team to a national appearance.  He was saved as an young adult and has since been serving the Lord as a staff member for the past 7 years.

My favorite character in the Bible is: David

My life verse is: Philippians 1:21

I’m happiest when: I am hanging out with my family

The one book (besides the Bible) I’d recommend to anyone is: Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

My trademark expression is: “Unbelievable”

The team I root for most is: Kansas Jayhawks

My proudest moment is: the birth of my children

The one blog I read regularly is: I don’t

My favorite childhood memory is: going on vacation to Tennessee each summer

In my free time, I: play tennis, watch movies, hang with the family

My favorite TV show is: Don’t have one

Next Scheduled Baptistm

Oct. 17th and Dec. 19th (between the 9am and 10:30am Services)

Baptism at The Oaks

In order to give to The Oaks online you must be signed up for Oaks Access. To do this click here or copy the link below into your web browser.

https://secure.accessacs.com/access/memberlogin.aspx?sn=91741

Upward Sports, the world’s largest Christian sports program for children, was created with a vision to provide the best sports experience possible for every child.  Each year some 1 million people around the world play, coach, referee, or volunteer in Upward Sports leagues and camps hosted by more than 2,600 churches.  Anyone – children and volunteers of any faith or no faith – can participate in Upward Sports.  Specifically designed for children in K5- sixth grade, Upward Sports aim is to bring out “the winner” in every child – regardless of the game’s score.

For more information about Upward click here

To sign your student up contact Ryan Black

Classic Worship Experience

Join us every Sunday Morning for a Classic Worship Experience, which is modeled after the historical baptist service, but includes some praise songs. The Classic Service takes place on Sundays at 9:00am in Luper Hall.

Classic Worship
Sundays at 9:00 am
Luper Hall

Classic Worship Auditions
Classic Worship is seeking orchestral instruments for an ensemble that will play weekly.  Interested high school or adult players should fill out the volunteer application below and contact our Minister of Music for an audition.

Volunteer Application

Contemporary Worship Experience

The Contemporary Worship Experience begins at 10:30am on Sunday Mornings. Our contemporary worship experience is creative, energetic, and passionate! The experience offers an intimate setting with progressive modern music as well as remixes of classic hymns, and original songs.Our pastor delivers biblical truth with practical application that is relevant to life today.

Contemporary Worship
Sundays at 10:30 am
Luper Hall

Contemporary Worship Auditions
Contemporary Worship is seeking artists who have a desire to lift their gifts up to God.  Please fill out the volunteer application below and turn it into the church office or one of the Worship Music Associates if you are interested

Volunteer Application

Celebrate Recovery is a fellowship of people committed to being a safe place where everyone can be honest about real problems – real hurts, habits, and hang-ups – through God’s love and truth. Together, we are experiencing freedom and new life through the power of Jesus Christ.

Life is difficult. None of us make it through this world without getting hurt or hurting others or ourselves. We are all in need of recovery. We are all weak in different areas, and we need each other.

Celebrate Recovery is a growing family of fellow strugglers who accept one another where we are, believing that God can help us change and grow.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a ministry like this, please join us in The Attic (Room 208) on Thursday Nights at 7PM. A normal night includes our Large Group meeting from 7:00pm to 7:50pm and our breakout share group times from 8:00pm to 9:00pm. For more information, please click the links below or contact Clint Donaldson at clint@discovertheoaks.com

Celebrate Recovery 8 Principles

Purpose of Celebrate Recovery

…….What are your service times?
We offer two very unique worship experiences at The Oaks
- Classic Worship meets on Sunday Mornings at 9:00am in Luper Hall
- Contemporary Worship meets on Sunday Mornings at 10:30am in Luper Hall

*Click to take a Virtual Tour of our Facilities*

…….What are the services like?
We offer two very unique worship experiences at The Oaks
- Classic Worship is is modeled after the historical baptist service, but includes some praise songs.Our pastor delivers biblical truth with practical application that is relevant to life today.
- Contemporary Worship is is creative, energetic, and passionate! The experience offers an intimate setting with progressive modern music as well as remixes of classic hymns, and original songs.Our pastor delivers biblical truth with practical application that is relevant to life today.

…….How do I get connected at The Oaks?
At The Oaks we offer a multitude of ways that allows a person to be connected. We offer a wide range of small group bible study opportunities, below you can find a brochure that will show you all the available opportunities for you to plug in at The Oaks. We also have specific ministries to meet the need on each individual, from preschool all the way up to our SOS(Solid Oaks Seniors)group. Check our Events page for upcoming ministry opportunities You can also stop by our Welcome Center in the front foyer where an individual will help you discover ways to plug in to The Oaks.

List of Small Group Bible Studies
Small Groups @ The Oaks

…….Where do my kids go?
We have a wonderful program for kids of all ages. In our Preschool Ministry (newborn-K) offers a place for young children to hear how much God loves them. They will feel, see, and experience God’s love from qualified, caring adults. We understand the need for parents to receive support in the spiritual upbringing of their young children. We want to partner with parents in sharing age-appropriate concepts to bring basic spiritual truths that will lead them to a personal relationship with Jesus. Our Children’s Ministry (1st-5th grade) introduces them to who God is and His relevance in their lives, along the journey they grow to be passionate followers of Jesus Christ. For teens we have a very exciting Student Ministry that meets on Wednesday Nights in “The Attic” located on the second floor.

…….How should I dress?
Comfortably! People wear everything from jeans to dresses and sport coats.

…….What is unique about The Oaks?
At The Oaks we believe that following Jesus is not about what you do in the pew, but what you do out of it. We model a walk that desires every church member to become a minister in the community in which they live. May it be work, home, or play we want everyone to spread the love in which Jesus Christ showed us. We are not about being a show, we are all about being a participant. So if you are looking for a family that works hard right beside you, then Welcome Home!

…….What does the church believe?
We believe that the Bible is uniquely God-inspired and without error. We believe that there is one God, eternally existing in three persons — the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We believe that Jesus Christ lived a sinless life on earth and voluntarily paid for our sin by dying on the cross as our substitute. He then rose from the grave, conquering death, and then ascended to heaven. His sacrifice allows eternal salvation for all who receive grace by trusting in Him alone.
Complete list of core beliefs

Our Bylaws
DOWNLOAD THE PDF

Membership Covenant
DOWNLOAD THE PDF

…….Need Help?
Our Church family is here to provide help, hope, and healing for individuals going through difficult times.

…….How do I contact the church?
Our office address is:
801 E. I-20
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
972.263.2224
972.263.2282
Office Hours:
Monday-Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm

Complete List of Small Groups
Small Groups @ The Oaks

…….what is there for my family?

Preschool Age (Birth – 5 years)
We offer many different programs for preschool age children. From weekly bible studies geared towards their age group, to Mainly Music a ministry for children and their parents. In the preschool ministry we believe that it is not only about the child, but about helping the parent nurture the child into having a full life, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Children Age (1st – 5th grade)
For children we take the same approach in philosophy as the preschool ministry. We offer a wide range of activities that are fun and enriching for children in grade school. During the summer we offer and awesome week of Vacation Bible School as well as Summer Camp for grade 3rd – 6th. In the children’s ministry we are all about showing a child that following Jesus can be a fun and fulfilling experience.

Youth (6th – 12 grade)
In the Student Ministry we take the energy to the next level. May it be in Bible study, worship, or just going to the greatest pizzeria in the world. We are all about creating a community of friendship, that will be there to support students through every imaginable life changing event. We also work closely with the parents, and become partners in helping build a strong relationship with their child.

Singles
At The Oaks we provide many outlets for singles to be plugged in. Whether you would like to attend a Bible Study with other singles or plug into one of our other groups. You will feel at home here at The Oaks. We also provide a choice of fellowship events for you to be apart of. Check out our small groups listing for the appropriate class.

Married’s
We have a wide range of small groups for married adults. From young married’s, to young families, to senior adults classes. If you are married and looking for a church home this is the place to be. We also provide a full complementary ministry package with preschool, children’s, and youth to partner with you on this journey through marriage. Check out our small groups listing for the appropriate class.

Senior Adults
With our Solid Oaks Seniors Ministry in full swing, there is no free time for those who are retired. We offer a monthly pot luck fellowship for those who enjoy the time together. We also have some of the best teachers of the Bible around when it comes to our small groups. Check out what we have to offer Senior Adults at The Oaks below.

Preschool Ministry @ The Oaks(Birth-5 years)

We celebrate God’s gift of children and recognize the responsibility that accompanies this gift. Our Preschool Ministry offers a place for young children to hear how much God loves them. They will feel, see, and experience God’s love from qualified, caring adults.

We understand the need for parents to receive support in the spiritual upbringing of their young children. We want to partner with parents in sharing age-appropriate concepts to bring basic spiritual truths that will lead them to a personal relationship with Jesus.

Classic Worship Experience

Join us every Sunday Morning for a Classic Worship Experience, which is modeled after the historical baptist service, but includes some praise songs. The Classic Service takes place on Sundays at 9:00am in Luper Hall.

Classic Worship
Sundays at 9:00 am
Luper Hall

Classic Worship Auditions
Classic Worship is seeking orchestral instruments for an ensemble that will play weekly.  Interested high school or adult players should contact our Minister of Music for an audition.

Contemporary Worship Experience

The Contemporary Worship Experience begins at 10:30am on Sunday Mornings. Our contemporary worship experience is creative, energetic, and passionate! The experience offers an intimate setting with progressive modern music as well as remixes of classic hymns, and original songs.Our pastor delivers biblical truth with practical application that is relevant to life today.

Contemporary Worship
Sundays at 10:30 am
Luper Hall

Contemporary Worship Auditions
Contemporary Worship is seeking artists who have a desire to lift their gifts up to God. Interested individuals should contact our Worship Music Associate for an audition.

Complete List of Small Groups
Small Groups @ The Oaks

…….what is there for my family?

Preschool Age (Birth – 5 years)
We offer many different programs for preschool age children. From weekly bible studies geared towards their age group, to Mainly Music a ministry for children and their parents. In the preschool ministry we believe that it is not only about the child, but about helping the parent nurture the child into having a full life, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Children Age (1st – 5th grade)
For children we take the same approach in philosophy as the preschool ministry. We offer a wide range of activities that are fun and enriching for children in grade school. During the summer we offer and awesome week of Vacation Bible School as well as Summer Camp for grade 3rd – 6th. In the children’s ministry we are all about showing a child that following Jesus can be a fun and fulfilling experience.

Youth (6th – 12 grade)
In the Student Ministry we take the energy to the next level. May it be in Bible study, worship, or just going to the greatest pizzeria in the world. We are all about creating a community of friendship, that will be there to support students through every imaginable life changing event. We also work closely with the parents, and become partners in helping build a strong relationship with their child.

College
We offer 2 different opportunities for students to grow at a small group level. Sunday mornings at 9AM we have a college class that meets in RM 222. Currently we are discussing what our identity is and how we become who God says that we are. Beginning Sunday, Sept. 5th we will start back with our college home group which meets in the home of Clint and Kerry Donaldson at 6:00PM.

Singles
At The Oaks we provide many outlets for singles to be plugged in. Whether you would like to attend a Bible Study with other singles or plug into one of our other groups. You will feel at home here at The Oaks. We also provide a choice of fellowship events for you to be apart of. Check out our small groups listing for the appropriate class.

Married’s
We have a wide range of small groups for married adults. From young married’s, to young families, to senior adults classes. If you are married and looking for a church home this is the place to be. We also provide a full complementary ministry package with preschool, children’s, and youth to partner with you on this journey through marriage. Check out our small groups listing for the appropriate class.

Senior Adults
With our Solid Oaks Seniors Ministry in full swing, there is no free time for those who are retired. We offer a monthly pot luck fellowship for those who enjoy the time together. We also have some of the best teachers of the Bible around when it comes to our small groups. Check out what we have to offer Senior Adults at The Oaks below.

…….Driving Directions

801 East Interstate 20, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75052
Phone: 972.263.2224
Fax: 972.263.2282

From 360
Merge onto Interstate 20 East, follow direction from Interstate 20 West…..

From Interstate 20 West
Exit Carrier Pkwy, Turn right onto Carrier Pkwy, Turn left at the first light onto Westchase Dr, Proceed down Westchase to the Stop Sign, Proceed Straight through the Stop Sign proceeding on Westcahse Dr. and make a right into the Church Parking Lot. Continue into the Church Parking lot making your way around the building taking the first left into Visitor Parking.

From Interstate 20 East
Exit Carrier Pkwy, Turn left onto Carrier Pkwy, Turn left at the first light onto Westchase Dr, Proceed down Westchase to the Stop Sign, Proceed Straight through the Stop Sign proceeding on Westchase Dr. and make a right into the Church Parking Lot. Continue into the Church Parking lot making your way around the building taking the first left into Visitor Parking.

See Us On Google Maps

…….Discipleship Model
A vital part of The Oaks DNA is our Discipleship Model. Jesus made it very clear in Matthew 28:18-20 …go and make disciples… Discipleship is our number one task as a church and the model that Jesus gave to us. The Oaks definition of discipleship is: A lifelong process of growing to be more like Jesus in one’s lifestyle and behavior. To see that this happens at The Oaks, we have developed The Discipleship Model.

…….What Is The Oaks Discipleship Model?
The Oaks Discipleship Model is a biblical model and guide for reaching new people for Christ and developing all believers in their personal faith. It is also the guide for all ministries at The Oaks. It is a specific plan to carry out our purpose and vision. The “heart” of the Discipleship Model is The Personal Growth Plan. In addition there is the Growth Process and the Administrative Support.

…….The Personal Growth Plan
This plan is based on the oak tree and is a guide to help an individual in their Christian growth. It is not a creed or a checklist to show how “spiritual” someone is. This guide will be useful in evaluating our personal growth and in helping us choose the things we need to do to enrich and develop our personal life in Christ. The Personal Growth Plan has four parts: the roots, the trunk, the branches, and the fruit.

Read the Discipleship Model: Personal Growth Plan
DOWNLOAD THE PDF

…….The Growth Process
A tree is biological. It grows in all areas at the same time. An individual will usually grow in all areas of their Christian life but may give more attention to certain areas. We have a basic step by step process, but it can be adjusted for anyone. A class will be offered on a regular basis to help individuals develop their personal plan. In addition to this, all Bible Study and small groups will use the Personal Growth Plan in evaluating their group and the things that need to be taught and emphasized. The Children’s and Youth leadership will work on adapting the Personal Growth Plan so that it is age appropriate.

Read the Discipleship Model: Growth Steps
DOWNLOAD THE PDF

…….What Will Be The Results In The Lives Of The People?

Disciples experience a changed future through their acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and the Christian faith as their defining philosophy of life.

Disciples undergo a changed lifestyle, manifested through different values, goals, perspectives, activities, and relationships.

Disciples mature into a changed world view, attributable to a deeper comprehension of the true meaning and impact of Christianity. Truth becomes an entirely God-driven reality to a disciple. Pursuing a personal relationship with God based on the truths of God becomes the disciple’s lifelong quest.

…….about the Scripture

The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired and is the record of Gods revelation of Himself to man. It is a perfect treasure of divine instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter. It reveals the principles by which God judges us; and therefore is, and will remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried. The criterion by which the Bible is to be interpreted is Jesus Christ.

Ex 24:4; De 4:1-2; 17:19; Jos 8:34;Psa 19:7-10; 119:11, 89, 105, 140; Isa 34:16; 40:8; Jer 15:16; 36:1-32; Mat 5:17-18; 22:29; Lu 21:33; 24:44-46; Joh 5:39; 16:13-15; 17:17; Ac 2:16; 17:11; Rom 15:4; 16:25-26; 2Ti 3:15-17; Heb 1:1-2; 4:12; 1Pe 1:25; 2Pe 1:19-21

…….about God

There is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and personal Being, the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe. God is infinite in holiness and all other perfections. To Him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. The eternal God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.

God the Father God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all powerful, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men.

Gen 1:1; 2:7; Ex 3:14; 6:2-3; 15:11; 20:1; Lev 22:2; De 6:4;32:6; 1Ch 29:10; Psa 19:1-3; Isa 43:3, 15; 64:8; Jer 10:10; 17:13; Mat 6:9; 7:11; 23:9; 28:19; Mark 1:9-11; John 4:24; 5:26; 14:6-13; 17:1-8; Acts 1:7; Rom 8:14-15; 1Co 8:6; Gal 4:6; Eph 4:6; Col 1:15; 1Ti 1:17; Heb 11:6; 12:9; 1Pe 1:17; 1Jo 5:7

God the Son Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ he was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself the demands and necessities of human nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, partaking of the nature of God and of man, and in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord.

Gen 18:1; Psalm 2:7; 110:1; Isa 7:14; 53:1-12; Mat 1:18-23;3:17; 8:29; 11:27; 14:33; 16:16, 27; Mat 17:5; 27; 28:1-6, 19; Mark 1:1; 3:11; Luke 1:35; 4:41; 22:70; 24:46; John 1:1-18, 29; 10:30, 38; 11:25-27; 12:44-50; John 14:7-11, 16:15-16, 28; 17:1-5, 21-22; 20:1-20, 28; Acts 1:9; 2:22-24; 7:55-56; 9:4-5, 20; Rom 1; 3-4; 3:23-26; 5:6-21; 8:1-3, 34; 10:4; 1Co 1:30; 2:2; 8:6; 15:1-8, 24-28; 2Co 5:19-21; Gal 4:4-5; Eph 1:20; 3:11; 4:7-10; Php 2:5-11; Col 1:13-22; 2:9; 1Th 4:14-18; 1Ti 2:5-6; 3:16; Tit 2:13-14; Heb 1:1-3; 4:14-15; 7:14-28; Heb 9:12-15, 24-28; 12:2; 13:8; 1Pe 2:21-25; 3:22; 1Jo 1:7-9; 3:2; 4:14- 15; 5:9; 2Jo 7-9; Rev 1:13-16; 5:9-14; 12:10-11; 13:8; 19:16

God the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts of sin, of righteousness and of judgment. He calls men to the Savour, and effects regeneration. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts” by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the assurance of God to bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service.

Gen 1:2; Jud 14:6; Job 26:13; Psa 51:11; 139:7; Isa 61:1-3; Joel 2:28-32; Mat 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; 12:28-32; 28:19; Mk 1:10, 12; Luke 1:35; 4:1, 18-19; 11:13; 12:12; 24:49; John 4:24; 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:7-14; Acts 1:8; 2:1-4, 38; 4:31; 5:3; 6:3; 7:55; 8:17, 39 Acts 10:44; 13:2; 15:28; 16:6; 19:1-6; Rom 8:9-11, 14-16, 26-27; 1Co 2:10-14; 3:16; 12:3-11; Gal 4:6; Eph 1:13-14; 4:30; 5:18; 1Th 5:19; 1Ti 3:16; 4:1; 2Ti 1:14; 3:16; Heb 9:8, 14; 2Pe 1:21; 1Jo 4:13; 5:6-7; Rev 1:10; 22:17

…….about Man

Man was created by the special act of God, in His own image, and is the crowning work of His creation. In the beginning man was innocent of sin and was endowed by his Creator with freedom of choice. By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence; whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin, and as soon as they are capable of moral action become transgressors and are under condemnation. Only the grace of God can bring man into His holy fellowship and enable man to fulfill the creative purpose of God. The sacredness of human personality is evident in that God created man in His own image, and in that Christ died for man; therefore every man possesses dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.

Gen 1:26-30; 2:5, 7, 18-22; 3; 9:6; Psa 1:1-6; 8:3-6; 32:1-5; 51:5; Isa 6:5; Jer 17:5; Matt 16:26; Acts 17:26-31; Rom 1:19-32; 3:10-18, 23; 5:6, 12, 19; 6:6; Rom 7:14-25; 8:14-18, 29; 1Co 1:21-31; 15:19, 21-22; Eph 2:1-22; Col 1:21-22; 3:9-11

…….about Salvation

Salvation involves the redemption of the whole man, and is offered freely to all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, who by His own blood obtained eternal redemption for the believer. In its broadest sense salvation includes regeneration, sanctification, and glorification. A. Regeneration, or the new birth, is a work of Gods grace whereby believers become new creatures in Christ Jesus. It is a change of heart wrought by the Holy Spirit through conviction of sin, to which the sinner responds in repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Repentance and faith are inseparable experiences of grace. Repentance is a genuine turning from sin toward God. Faith is the acceptance of Jesus Christ and commitment of the entire personality to Him as Lord and Savior. Justification is Gods gracious and full acquittal upon principles of His righteousness of all sinners who repent and believe in Christ. Justification brings the believer into a relationship of peace and favor with God. B. Sanctification is the experience, beginning in regeneration, by which the believer is set apart to Gods purposes, and is enabled to progress toward moral and spiritual perfection through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in him. Growth in grace should continue throughout the regenerate persons life. C. Glorification is the culmination of salvation and is the final blessed and abiding state of the redeemed.

Gen 3:15; Ex 3:14-17; 6:2-8; Mat 1:21; 4:17; 16:21-26; 27:22-28:6; Luke 1:68-69; 2:28-32; John 1:11-14, 29; 3:3-21, 36; 5:24; 10:9, 28-29; John 15:1-16; 17:17; Acts 2:21; 4:12; 15:11; 16:30-31; Acts 17:30-31; 20:32; Rom 1:16-18; 2:4; 3:23-25; 4:3; Rom 5:8-10; 6:1-23; 8:1-18; 29-39; 10:9-10, 13; Rom 13:11-14; 1Cor 1:18, 30; 6:19-20; 15:10; 2Co 5:17-20; Gal 2:20; 3:13; 5:22-25; 6:15; Eph 1:7; 2:8-22; 4:11-16; Php 2:12-13; Col 1:9-22; 3:1
1Th 5:23-24; 2Tim 1:12; Titus 2:11-14; Heb 2:1-3; 5:8-9; 9:24-28; 11:1-12:8, 14; James 2:14-26; 1Pe 1:2-23; 1Jo 1:6-2:11; Rev 3:20; 21:1-22:5

…….about Grace

Election is the gracious purpose of God, according to which He regenerates, sanctifies, and glorifies sinners. It is consistent with the free agency of man, and comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is a glorious display of Gods sovereign goodness, and is infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable. It excludes boasting and promotes humility. All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ, and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end. Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach on the cause of Christ, and temporal judgments on themselves, yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

Gen 12:1-3; Ex 19:5-8; 1Sa 8:4-7, 19-22; Isa 5:1-7; Jer 31:31
Mat 16:18-19; 21:28-45; 24:22, 31; 25:34; Luke 1:68-79; 2:29-32; 19:41-44; 24:44-48; John 1:12-14; 3:16; 5:24; 6:44-45, 65; 10:27-29; John 15:16; 17:6, 12, 17-18; Acts 20:32; Rom 5:9-10; 8:28-39; 10:12-15; 11:5-7, 26-36; 1Co 1:1-2; 15:24-28; Eph 1:4-23; 2:1-10; 3:1-11; Col 1:12-14; 2Th 2:13-14; 2Ti 1:12; 2:10, 19; Heb 11:39-12:2; 1Pe 1:2-5, 13; 2:4-10; 1Jo 1:7-9; 2:19; 3:2

…….about the Church

A New Testament church of the Lord Jesus Christ is a local body of baptized believers who are associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel, observing the two ordinances of Christ, committed to His teachings, exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word, and seeking to extend the gospel to the ends of the earth. This church is an autonomous body, operating through democratic processes under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In such a congregation members are equally responsible. Its Scriptural officers are pastors and deacons. The New Testament speaks also of the church as the body of Christ which includes all of the redeemed of all the ages.

Mat 16:15-19; 18:15-20; Acts 2:41-42, 47; 5:11-14; 6:3-6; 13:1-3; 14:23, 27; Acts 15:1-30; 16:5; 20:28; Rom 1:7; 1Co 1:2; 3:16; 5:4-5; 7:17; 9:13-14; 12; Eph 1:22-23; 2:19-22; 3:8-11, 21; 5:22-32; Php 1:1; Col 1:18; 1Ti 3:1-15; 4:14

…….about Baptism and Lord’s Supper

Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is an act of obedience symbolizing the believers faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior, the believers death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is a testimony to his faith in the final resurrection of the dead. Being a church ordinance, it is prerequisite to the privileges of church membership and to the Lords Supper. The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming.

Mat 3:13-17; 26:26-30; 28:19-20; Mk 1:9-11; 14:22-26; Luke 3:21-22; 22:19-20; John 3:23; Acts 2:41-42; 8:35-39; 16:30-33; 20:7; Rom 6:3-5; 1Co 10:16, 21; 11:23-29; Col 2:12

…….about The Kingdom

The Kingdom of God includes both His general sovereignty over the universe and His particular kingship over men who willfully acknowledge Him as King. Particularly the Kingdom is the realm of salvation into which men enter by trustful, childlike commitment to Jesus Christ. Christians ought to pray and to labor that the Kingdom may come and Gods will be done on earth. The full consummation of the Kingdom awaits the return of Jesus Christ and the end of this age.

Gen 1:1; Isa 9:6-7; Jer 23:5-6; Mat 3:2; 4:8-10, 23; 12:25-28; 13:1-52; 25:31-46; 26:29; Mk 1:14-15; 9:1; Luke 4:43; 8:1; 9:2; 12:31-32; Luke 17:20-21; 23:42; John 3:3; 18:36; Acts 1:6-7; 17:22-31; Rom 5:17; 8:19; 1Co 15:24-28; Col 1:13; Heb 11:10, 16; 12:28; 1Pe 2:4-10; 4:13; Rev 1:6, 9; 5:10; 11:15; 21-22

…….about the Last Things

God, in His own time and in His own way, will bring the world to its appropriate end. According to His promise, Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth; the dead will be raised; and Christ will judge all men in righteousness. The unrighteous will be consigned to Hell, the place of everlasting punishment. The righteous in their resurrected and glorified bodies will receive their reward and will dwell forever in Heaven with the Lord.

Isa 2:4; 11:9; Mat 16:27; 18:8-9; Mat 19:28; 24:27, 30, 36, 44; 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 8:38; 9:43-48; Luke 12:40, 48; 16:19-26; Luke 17:22-37; 21:27-28; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 17:31; Rom 14:10; 1Co 4:5; 1Co 15:24-28, 35-58; 2Co 5:10; Php 3:20-21; Col 1:5; 3:4; 1Th 4:14-18; 5:1; 2Th 1:7; 2:1-17; 1Ti 6:14; 2Ti 4:1, 8; Tit 2:13; Heb 9:27-28; James 5:8; 2Pe 3:7; 1Jo 2:28; 3:2; Jude 14; Rev 1:18; 3:11; 20:1-22:13

…….about the Family

God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood or adoption. Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is Gods unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church, and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel for sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race. The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in Gods image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation. Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children Gods pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.

Ge 1:26-28; 2:18-25; 3:1-20; Ex 20:12; De 6:4-9; Jos 24:15; 1Sa 1:26-28; Ps 78:1-8; 127:1-4; 128:1-6; 139:13-16; Pro 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; Pro 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; Pro 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ec 4:9-12; 9:9; Mal 2:14-16; Mt 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mr 10:6-12; Ro 1:18-32; 1Co 7:1-16; Eph 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Col 3:18-21; 1Ti 5:14; 2Ti 1:3-5; Tit 2:3-5; Heb 13:4; 1Pe 3:1-7

The Oaks Academy is a ministry of The Oaks Baptist Church. The Oaks Academy will be a place for young children to learn and grow under the guidance and example of trained, dedicated, loving Christian preschool teachers. We believe that each child is a gift from God and each one is dear to God’s heart.”

The Oaks Academy is a preschool program, focusing on teaching 12 months through 5 years (pre-Kindergarten). The curriculum will be geared towards Kindergarten readiness, with each class learning age appropriate concepts.

Curriculum: Parents Day Out Curriculum published by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Comprehensive Curriculum of Basic Skills published by McGraw-Hill.

Our Goals:

- Provide a safe and loving environment for the children.

-Assist the children in learning the teachings of Christ.

-Teach children to manage themselves, their property, and their routines.

-Encourage children to take initiative in their activities

-Facilitate in expanding vocabulary, knowledge, and coordination, through the curriculum and activities.

Special classes that each child will participate in outside of their individual class will be PE, Music and Chapel.

Special programs/activities will be a Bicycle Rally, meet some of the GP Fire Fighters and Police Officers along with seeing the fire trucks in the fall, with many more things planned for the spring.

We will also have the following program nights for the parents: Christmas Program, Spring Program, End of the Year Program and Graduation for those graduating Pre-K.

OaksAcademyBrochure

Oaks Academy at The Oaks Baptist Church
801 East Interstate 20
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Jennifer Conklin – Director
Jennifer Brunson – Assistant Director

…….Children’s Ministry @ The Oaks(Kind – 6th grade)

We know that children learn best when they are having fun in a safe secure environment with people who care about them. The children’s ministry is designed to introduce kids to God and Christian community. From the littlest children at the base of the mountain all the way to the teens at the Summit, purposeful interaction with peers and mentor leaders encourages the children to develop relationship with God and each other. Come and join in the adventure!

Student Ministry News

The Oaks Baptist Church has called Ryan Black and his wife, Cassie, to be the new Student Minister.

Ryan and Cassie come to us from Springfield, MO where has been serving as Interim Youth Pastor at Park Crest Baptist Church. Ryan will be joining the staff in mid-May. We are excited about what God is doing in the life of this couple and the life of our church.

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Student Camp 2010 This year students completing 7th through 12th grade will be going to Mt. Lebanon Baptist Camp for “Student Camp at The Mount” July 25th-30th, 2010. Cost is $175 and registration and full payment are due by June 27th.

Camp Registration 2010

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We offer opportunities to connect with other students in both large and small group settings. In our large group setting, students experience high-energy worship and solid biblical teaching that is relevant to students in today’s post-modern culture. We also have opportunities to get connected into small groups to deepen friendships and to grow closer to the Lord in our daily walk. We also have a variety of great connection events. Check out what’s happening this month.

Got Questions?
For information on The Oaks Student Ministry and how you can get connected, contact the Church Office.

…….College Ministry @ The Oaks

The College Ministry is your second home, during the semester. We offer a variety of events and mission opportunities throughout the week. We meet Sunday Mornings at 9AM in RM 222 and/or Sunday evenings at 6PM at the home of Clint and Kerry Donaldson.

Got Questions?

…….Prayer Ministry @ The Oaks

At The Oaks Baptist Church we believe prayer is an integral part of our church’s: Spiritual, Emotional, and Physical Growth. We offer many avenues of prayer. From a prayer guide to a night dedicated solely to prayer. Know that everyone at The Oaks is praying for you!

……National Day of Prayer

Every year we gather as a church to pray with millions from across the nation, for our country and leaders. Please join us by visiting our national prayer site to see when the next event will take place.

…….Prayer Guide @ The Oaks

At the Oaks Baptist Church we have a prayer guide that is delivered to anyone who requests it may it be through email, mail, or picked up in the church office You can request a prayer by emailing prayer@discovertheoaks.com or by filling out the tear out in the worship guide.

Got a Need?
For information on The Oaks Prayer Ministry and how we can pray for you, contact us at prayer@discovertheoaks.com

Tuesdays at 6:00 am there is a Men’s Bible Study from Men’s Fraternity. The Bible speaks much to men about His call for them to be leaders within their marriages, families, churches, and even within the community-at-large. Somewhere along the way, most men have become disconnected from the warrior heart of God for whose image we bear in this world (Genesis 1:26-27). So, unfortunately, we live within a society full of wounded men who, for various reasons, do not pursue their God-given call to live within the strength and power of the Holy Spirit to be the warrior God designed the to be. Many of our marriages, families, churches, and local communities show the affects of such wounded men.
Beginning this Spring, the Men’s Ministry at The Oaks Baptist Church is offering a semi-weekly study called The Quest for Authentic Manhood , produced and distributed by Men’s Fraternity. This study explores many of the fundamentals of manhood including the definition of manhood, a man’s core identity, biblical masculinity, and questions like “What is a man?” and “What am I living to be?” These meetings are not just “sit around and shoot the breeze” sessions, nor are they designed to be wimpy Bible studies where men are preached at and to. These gatherings are very much designed to be a time of fellowship, discipleship, and exhortation for fellow warriors in Christ.

In addition to these semi-weekly gatherings, the Men’s Ministry at The Oaks offers activities throughout the year. These events include men’s retreats, men’s breakfasts, camping, fishing and/or hunting trips, golf outings, etc. Information about these events will be posted and distributed as they are scheduled.

We invite you to join us as we pursue our God-given call to live within the strength and power of the Holy Spirit to be the man, the warrior, God designed us to be!

…….Women’s Ministry @ The Oaks

“Here and Now, There and Then”

For information about Wedding prices, policies, and bookings please contact our Wedding Coordinator:

Jleetia Lee
Wedding Coordinator
972.263.2224 x.311
weddings@discovertheoaks.com

Pray Like Jesus

Why We Fast – (03/07/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Awakening – A Time of Revival

How to Find the Hallelujah Square (03/01/10) – Dave McCracken

Getting Back to God’s Plan (02/28/10 – Evening) – Dave McCracken

A Time of Revival (02/28/10 – Morning) – Dave McCracken

The Blessed Life

Serving the Master (02/21/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor with Special Guest Keron Jackson

Multiplying Your Blessing (02/14/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Where is Your Treasure? (02/07/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

The Church

Commitment – What We Are Called To Do (01/31/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

The Role of Leadership in the Church (01/24/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

What is the Church (01/17/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

The State of the Church (01/10/10) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Celebrate Recovery (01/03/10) – Clint Donaldson Inreach Associate

Unexpected Visitor

Distant Travelers (12/27/09) – Dr. Bill White

Unexpected Announcement (12/20/09) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

The Gift (12/13/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

The Guest List (12/06/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Origins

Knowing the Will of God (11/29/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Eternal Life (11/22/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Grace/One Way (11/15/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Human Attempts/Worship (11/8/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Promise of Restoration (11/1/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Sin/Brokeness/Rebellion (10/25/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Creations (10/18/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Discovering God’s Story (10/11/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Core Values

Commisioned Church (10/4/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Passionate Spirituality(9/27/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Authentic Relationships (9/20/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Ground in the Word of God (9/13/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Multiplying Leaders (8/30/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Strategic Service (8/23/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Job – The Man of Suffering

God’s Reason for Suffering (8/16/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Reason for Suffering (8/9/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Knockout Punch (8/2/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor

Worship through Intense Suffering (7/26/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pasto

Satan & Suffering (7/12/2009) – Heath Marion Lead Pastor