About
We are believers in Jesus Christ who are…
- Directed by the authority of God’s inspired Word, the Bible.
- An un-denominational fellowship seeking to restore the pattern revealed in the New Testament.
- Desirous of glorifying and knowing God in all that we say and do.
- Committed to knowing and becoming like Jesus Christ.
- Led by our elders who work closely with the preachers, and are assisted by our deacons and other workers.
- Working together to tell our community and the world about Jesus, the Son of God, so others can also follow and serve Him.
- Giving time, effort and resources to care for and minister to one another.
The purpose of the Bethlehem Church of Christ is to glorify God and lead the people of Adams and Brown Counties, Southwest Ohio, and the world to be holy and responsible disciples of Jesus Christ by…
- Proclaiming Jesus Christ as the only way by which people can be saved.
- Providing Bible study, meaningful worship, and varied fellowship for those of all ages.
- Praying, working together, and being faithful stewards.
About our Preaching Minister
Tom Claibourne is the Preaching Minister at the Bethlehem Church of Christ. He was born in 1957 in Highland County, OH, and grew up actively involved in the Hillsboro Church of Christ where he became a Christian in 1968 and was ordained to the ministry in 1980.
Tom received the Bachelor of Arts (1979) and Master of Arts (1988) degrees from Cincinnati Bible College & Seminary (now Cincinnati Christian University). He married Linnea Twaddell in 1987, and they enjoy being the parents of Leah (1990), Anya (1992), and Micah (1996), as well as the “church dog” named Lady.
Tom preached his first sermons at Bethlehem in 1979 and through the years has worked in most areas of service in the church at one time or another. Tom’s primary responsibilities now include Sunday morning sermons; planning and administration; visitation; teaching the College/Career Bible Class and special short-term classes; leading special segments during the Sunday Evening Services; editing the “Bethlehem Star” newsletter; and working to keep the congregation informed and involved in fulfilling the church’s mission.
Tom’s ministry is expanded through his writing, which includes a monthly column for preachers in the Restoration Herald. He has also published more than 100 articles in various publications. His service on the board of six Christian organizations and missions through the years has allowed him to serve more widely within the Kingdom of God.
Tom is often asked to speak at other places, especially regarding ministry to smaller churches and America’s Christian heritage. Travels to 50 states and 28 countries have given Tom a world vision and a broader understanding of people and their various needs.
When time allows, he enjoys reading, yard work, and most sports.