Illinois Baptist
Be ready for conflict Because you know it’s coming. Sylvan Knobloch P. 16
Split Ticket
in focus
world
Iran frees U.S. pastor
Abedini released after 1,208 days in prison Germany | Saeed Abedini was released last week after more than three years in an Iranian prison. The pastor from Idaho planned a reunion in the U.S. with his wife, Naghmeh, and their children after a debriefing and medical assessment at a U.S. Air Force Base in Germany. His freedom, part of a prisoner exchange with Iran following that nation’s nuclear disarmament agreement with the U.S. was announced January 16. “We are ready to welcome him home,” Naghmeh said in a January 17 interview with FOX News, noting that the couple’s young children were making welcome home signs.
Evangelical support is divided going into presidential primaries. P. 7
NEWS
P. 3
COOPERATIVE PROGRAM
Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Peoria, Illinois Permit No. 325
Giving up 1.5% in Illinois Annual Report
Massive Cleanup
Disaster Relief volunteers on scene in two states P. 11
News journal of the Illinois Baptist State Association
JANUARY 25, 2016 Vol. 110 No. 02
We’re always on Get news and commentary online. See page 3 for addresses.
Section B
MISSIONS
WMU replacement called ‘pivotal’ P. 4
REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK
Is Powerball our ‘national disgrace’? Eric Reed P. 6