Author: Danny Whetstone

Dear World Wide Family,

I am very pleased to bring you some changes that took place on February 25, 2020. During our scheduled board meeting, I proposed to the Executive Board that Brother John O’Malley be made President of World Wide New Testament Baptist Missions and that Brother Jeremy Lockhart be made the General Director. The men accepted my recommendation and voted to appoint these men to those positions.

I understand when changes like these come, it is often assumed that there is a problem. Nothing could be further from the truth. It was my desire when Brother O’Malley came to work with us twenty-six years ago that this day would come. The Lord has graciously given us Brother Lockhart as well, and he proved himself to be capable during Brother O’Malley’s recovery from heart surgery.

What will I do? I will do much of the same things that I have done for the last thirty-five years. Darleen and I will continue in missions conferences and traveling overseas, and I will remain as Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of World Wide. It has been my joy to serve at the pleasure of the Executive Board in each capacity that they have given me. That will not change.

Fifty years ago, the Lord called Pastor Wingard to establish this mission. It has been my greatest pleasure to serve alongside of him with the hope that in some small way, I could help him fulfill our Lord’s desire for this work. That is still my hope. Be assured that I did not make this proposal without first talking to Pastor Wingard. We are in agreement. I am blessed to have a wonderful relationship with him, as well as with Brother O’Malley.

This decision is effective immediately. Should you have any questions, please feel free to ask me, Pastor Wingard, Brother O’Malley, or any board member.

In His Service,

Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

Simon Peter preached an amazing message in Acts 2. Three thousand people trusted in Christ following that sermon. Acts 2:42 says, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” The word fellowship speaks of “participation” or “to share in.” Those who were saved that day saw the need for even new believers to participate in the faith.

Later, Paul will write to the church in Philippi using this word. Philippians 1:5, “For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Think of those early members of this church. There was Lydia, the Philippian jailer, and possibly the young damsel. They did not merely want to fellowship with the church. They wanted to participate in the church. Do you remember when the Lord called you to serve Him full time? More than likely, you were already deeply involved in the work of our Lord. Still, the next level was probably both exciting and frightening.

Do we find our Lord’s work exciting and frightening today? I remember others telling me when I began training at Bob Jones University that Bible college would be one of the easiest places to backslide because my study of the Bible would become academic. We must be cautious in the service of the Lord. If we are not careful, our labor of love could quickly become a mere professional endeavor. There should always be an air of excitement about the prospects of accomplishment in our work. It encourages us to strive to do better. We grow, we learn, and we make adjustments to take our life’s work to higher levels. Otherwise, we become complacent, lazy, and satisfied.

There should always be a measure of reverential fear. The Lord calls us to stand between the living and the dead. Your ministry is going to be the difference between heaven and hell for the many lives that you will touch. We must not approach the Lord’s work with arrogance and pride. But realize that without Him, we can do nothing. Reverence for the Lord and love for His work will go a long way toward helping us to be successful in fulfilling His purpose for our calling.

Pause to remember what you felt in the early days of your ministry. Add to that the important lessons that you have learned since then. Now dream about all that God is capable of doing through you in the days ahead.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

What are your goals for the coming year? Any time is a good time to consider where we are going, but the beginning of a new year is a very good time. This year we are in not only a new year but a new decade as well. Several years ago, Brother O’Malley and I were in a conversation about the future. He said that we need to lay out our ten-year plans. I told him that I didn’t have too many ten year plans left, but I would consider some two- to five-year plans.

It has been said that we will not hit any higher than we aim. If we set a goal for the future, we might not hit the bullseye, but we will undoubtedly hit higher than we would otherwise. Is your ministry on cruise control? Does one day follow another without any direction at all? Life will see to it that circumstances will constantly control you, and you will more than likely take the path of least resistance. If we are to win, we must fight.

When we get on the road to another destination, we do not leave our travels to chance. We set the goal then follow the best route to get to that specific spot on the earth. Amazingly, we hit that particular spot every time. Now there are times that we come to a detour because of an accident, a landslide, road construction, or any number of unforeseen interruptions. However, we keep our sights on a specific destination. Plans might change, but our final destination remains the same. We cannot just turn down a road because we feel like it if we intend to fulfill our mission.

Let each of us take the challenge to pray and prepare for the coming year. What would the Lord have us accomplish by year’s end? Set the mark, and by the grace of God, go for it with fervency and vitality. I know with this year being 2020, “vision” is going to be overworked in a big-time way. However, drifting is not a viable alternative to having a vision or setting a goal. When our Lord created Adam, He set a goal. He was determined to go all the way to Calvary. Satan did everything in his power to divert Him from His intended purpose, but our Lord was determined to reach His goal. Aren’t we glad He did not take the easy way and leave us to our own end? There are those in the path of your plans, and perhaps you are the only one who can reach them. Go on purpose.

May our Lord’s richest blessings be yours as you serve Him faithfully.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

It seems that this time of the year brings so many to an extreme. On the one hand, it brings to many feelings of discouragement or depression. On the other hand, it is almost euphoric for others. This happens because we are so concentrated on self, but should we not instead remember that this is the time that we must especially remember the first coming of our Lord?

It should be so easy for us to witness of Christ before others. I do not know exactly when He was born, but this is as good a time as any for us to remember. It is also a good time for us to remind others of the amazing miracle that took place so long ago. God sent His Son to bear our sins to Calvary, and not just our sins, but the sins of the entire world. Let’s be conscious during this Christmas and New Year season of those around who are lost or Christians who have strayed from the Lord.

Being with friends and family will not be possible for many of you. Make the most of the time with loved ones and friends who you are with. Would it not be a wonderful gift for each of us if we could introduce some sinner to the saving grace of God? Now that would be a special package to unwrap, one that we would remember for all of eternity. If you are fortunate enough to be with your family, begin earnestly praying that you would have the opportunity to help someone who needs the Lord to find their way to Him. Or perhaps you know someone who at one time served the Lord but has grown cold through the years. Make sure that they see in you the blessing of giving one’s self to serve Christ.

Count your blessings with your immediate family, friends, and church people. Avoid the temptation to talk about what you do not have. Instead, take the opportunity to share the joy of rehearsing the things with which the Lord has blessed you. Obviously, one is the Unspeakable Gift that was given for our redemption. Make much of Christ always, but especially at this time of the year.

I pray that the Lord will bless each of us with great opportunities. I heard a pastor just recently tell about an experience that he had while shopping. He met a man in the store who just followed him around talking to him every chance he had. They spoke of a variety of things, and then each went on his way. When the pastor returned to his car, he thought on this and concluded that the Lord had given him an open door to tell this man of the saving grace of God. He returned to the store, but could not find the man. We are often in a sea of people but see no one.

Many years ago, I read something that has never left me. I wish that I could remember the author, but memory fails me. However, I do remember what he said, “Loving everyone in general is oftentimes an excuse for loving no one in particular.” May God awaken us to realize that multitudes are on every hand. Let’s pick some of them out and seek to lead them to our blessed Lord.

In His Service,

Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

Would you consider this prayer? “Let my position be biblical and my disposition be spiritual.” It would appear that, at times, our position is hidden behind our disposition. Perhaps we are frustrated by those who do not seem to see our biblical interpretation clearly. Could it be that our disposition is screaming so loudly that our position is ignored?

A biblical position should stand on its own. We generally argue over things that we are not really sure to be factual. We are to study the Scriptures sufficiently so that God is pleased with our interpretation. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15). If God approves, the argument is settled. Getting louder is no substitute for studying the subject to its correct conclusion.

A spiritual disposition displays confidence. Oftentimes things are given in such a way that, even though I agree with the position, I find it hard to concur because of the unChristlike disposition. I have observed this in preaching, but even more so on Facebook. If our message is going to be rejected, let us make sure that it is the truth that they are arguing with and not our sour spirit. Admittedly, there are times that it seems not to be a sour spirit as much as it is arrogance. If we arrive at the correct biblical position, it is only because of the goodness of the Holy Spirit to illuminate our understanding of His Word. There is nothing to be arrogant about in that.

James gives adequate instructions concerning the tongue. May our Lord give us the wisdom to use it in a way that would please Him rather than giving satisfaction to the flesh. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalms 19:14).

I pray that the Lord will bless you with a profitable ministry this month to His glory.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

I have heard that the difference between minor surgery and major surgery is whether or not it is happening to you! We understand that every health issue is important, and prayer requests should be taken seriously when someone cares enough to ask us to pray. Sometimes a need is more significant than others. I do not wish to minimize anyone’s need as I mention these two that are dear to my heart.

Brother John O’Malley is home from heart bypass surgery. It is of the Lord’s mercies that the doctors were able to find his problem and deal with it expeditiously. We know that healthcare in America is very costly; however, I want to thank the Lord that it is available in situations like this one. Brother O’Malley has been used of the Lord at WWNTBM for more than twenty-six years, and we all have been touched by his ministry. Please continue to pray for him as he recuperates at home.

Brother Russell Bell was recently released from the hospital following an episode of excessive bleeding. We give praise to our Lord that he made it to the hospital in time for them to help him. However, in that process, the doctor discovered that he has liver cancer. Brother Bell will see a specialist on October 9. Please pray that the doctor will be able to treat this cancer and prolong Brother Bell’s ministry on into the future. Preacher Bell would be the first to admit that our Lord has been gracious to give him life and ministry over the years. I do not wish to be selfish, but I pray that the Lord would see fit to raise this man of God one more time.

We serve a God Who can do beyond anything that we are capable of asking. We serve a God Who answers the fervent prayers of His people. We serve a God Who has invited us to His throne of grace when we have a need. Now let’s take time to approach Him for these two men and the families that stand with them.

I trust that our Lord will protect you from all harm and bless you with good health as you continue to serve Him faithfully. Many are counting on you today, and many are expecting you in the future. May we be prepared in every way possible to be what they need.

In His Service,

Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

World Wide New Testament Baptist Missions is approaching fifty years of service to missionary families and their sending churches. We are at a place now where we see missionaries retire from full-time missionary service. The Lord has been so good to send new families for us to minister with in the work of world evangelism. There is no doubt that we stand in great need of young missionaries to carry on the difficult work that is necessary all over the world. However, I would like to express my appreciation to the Lord for permitting us to still have those who have labored long in this ministry.

I will not attempt to bring to your attention all those who have given of themselves in this work, but I am most grateful that the man whom God used to see this work born is still the Chairman of the Board. Pastor Bill Wingard has been the heart of this work, and our Lord has blessed our mission by sustaining him through the years. In the wisdom of God, we are aware that the younger is to learn from the older. It is certainly true that the energy resides in the younger, but the wisdom abides in those who have long served the Lord through various circumstances of life and ministry.

Men like Brother Russell Bell were there at the beginning with Pastor Wingard. Pastor Clyde Eborn was also involved in the beginning stages of this work. We have indeed learned much since those early days. So much that we have learned, and so many troubles that we avoided have been because these men have stayed with us through good and bad. Make no mistake about it: we need these men more than ever before. This mission has operated on biblical principles that these men, and many others like them, have kept before us through the years.

We enjoy the memories of Mrs. Smithwick in a closet with a journal keeping the records for the mission. They were humble beginnings, but none of this operation would be here today if these faithful servants had not taken the first steps to see it come alive. There have been many who have invested their energies in this work. There have been hundreds of hours spent in board meetings attempting to steer the ministry in such a direction that God would be honored. I am so proud of the work being accomplished by our mission today, and I am convinced that it will only get better if we remember that we are building on a very good foundation given to us by faithful servants of the Lord.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

All of us deal daily with relationships. Relationships with family, friends, supporters, churches, and the mission are ever before us. There are various times when difficulties arise in each of those relationships. So many things come into play when we attempt to maintain a good relationship in each of these categories.

At the beginning of a relationship, everything looks wonderful. If that were not true, we would not cultivate the relationship to maturity. It is certainly true that over time, we see things that we did not recognize in the beginning. However, as we build on a relationship, we are continually evaluating its worth. So, what is the primary component of a lasting relationship? Perhaps each of us would pick a different most important thing, but in my opinion, it would be honesty.

If a relationship is established or developed on faulty information, it is not likely that the relationship will develop properly. As a mission, WWNTBM does everything possible to reveal exactly who we are so that each of us understands what we are getting into before we have a long term relationship. Over the years, the mission has attempted to maintain a steady course. Where we have made changes, it has been to elaborate on a position already established.

We may grow in a relationship only to recognize that changes are necessary. When that happens, we must realize that those changes now involve more than just us. When this happens, we must work through those changes or dismiss ourselves from the relationship. Never should we establish or develop a relationship on a faulty premise. It might seem that deception is an easy way to go, but in the end, it will cost us far more.

Be honest with your family. Be honest with your friends. Be honest with your supporters. Be honest with your church. Be honest with your mission. Be honest with all of your relationships. Deception has no part in a good relationship. You might have a great reputation, but is it an accurate representation of who you are?

Develop a great relationship with all who touch your life. Often it is very hard work, but over time, it will enrich your life and the lives of those around you.

In His Service,

Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

I want to thank Pastor Chad Estep and the Valley Baptist Church for doing an amazing job hosting Family Fellowship Week last month. It was a great blessing to see so many of you in Edinburg. Brother O’Malley and the staff did a wonderful job preparing for the week, and so many components came together for a seamless week of fellowship.

So many things have changed over the years, and we are continually making adjustments to deal with those changes. Nothing is so staggeringly different than the way we communicate. I can remember a time when if a problem developed, it was a long process. A missionary would write, and it would often take weeks to get an answer as the letters would crawl slowly around the world. However, that is the case no longer. Instantaneously we can communicate with the other side of the globe. It leaves no time for us to reflect on our response to a particular situation. Since we are not required to take time for thought, perhaps it would be advisable to take that time on our own. Restraint is not always easy. Our emotions compel us to reply with everything that is on our mind. In those times might I suggest that you write the email and then just let it rest in your computer for a couple of days before sending it to where it can never be recovered and changed.

Consider this with me also: posts on social media. Sometimes it is what we say, and other times it is how we say it. I oftentimes read things on Facebook from missionaries that we are associated with that cause me to cringe. Statements that come across so arrogant it is as though the writer believes that he is the only one that has ever had that thought and therefore has the only correct answer. If we knew the truth, we would probably be amazed at how little others care about our dogmatism. You can be correct and still be wrong! You can be wrong in your disposition even when your position is right. But there are those also that word a statement in such a way as to gender strife. This should not be.

And then there are those pictures! Please use caution when you are posting photos online. We are all aware that there are differences in convictions. Yes, we do indeed have liberty in Christ, but we must not use our liberty to offend a brother in Christ. Look carefully at those pictures before posting them. Look at modesty. Look at the surroundings. Then ask yourself how important is it that this is published for public consumption.

I trust that our Lord will give you a wonderful month in your ministry and family.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.

This month we will meet in Edinburg, Virginia, for the annual Family Fellowship Meeting of WWNTBM. I would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to those that have contributed so much to see this work go forward.

God very clearly chose Pastor Bill Wingard to get this mission underway, and he has been at the helm serving the Lord faithfully from the beginning. Pastor Wingard is the founder and serves as the Chairman of the Executive Board. He is the heart of this mission. He has steered us through some troubled seas through the years, and we will always be grateful for his leadership. On a personal note, I would like to thank him for allowing me to serve with him in this ministry for the last thirty-four years. Many of you are fairly new to the mission. Perhaps you have not had the opportunity to spend much time with Pastor Wingard. When you get to the meeting in Edinburg, make sure that you go out of your way to meet him in a personal way.

My memory would fail me to list all of the board members who have served this work since the beginning, but we would not be what we are today without these faithful pastors that have given of themselves to serve World Wide in so many ways. These men love this mission. I would encourage each of you to get to know them personally. All of these servants of our Lord are approachable.

It was twenty-six years ago that the Lord blessed WWNTBM by leading Dr. John O’Malley to join us in this work. Brother O’Malley now serves as the General Director of the mission. For many of you, he is your first contact with this ministry. If he was not your first contact, you have learned very quickly that he is your advocate. He deals with the day-to-day operation of the mission under the leadership of Pastor Wingard and the Executive Board. It would be impossible to adequately tell all that Brother O’Malley has added to the operation of the mission.

Brother Jeremy Lockhart has joined the team and is working alongside of Dr. O’Malley. Brother Lockhart serves as Director of Deputation. We certainly appreciate the Lockharts and thank the Lord for sending them to this ministry for such a time as this.

Words cannot express our thankfulness for Mrs. O’Malley and the ladies that work so diligently to serve the missionaries of World Wide. Please look for opportunities to share with them your appreciation for their endless labor on our behalf.

This mission exists to serve the missionary families who have chosen to go to the mission field with the assistance of World Wide. We are here for you. This is your mission. If for any reason you are not proud to be associated with WWNTBM, please give us a chance to work on whatever troubles you. We are grateful for the privilege of serving you in your calling.

In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.