June 5--We loaded three large trucks from the warehouse in Mt. Cristi this morning. It was all medical supplies for the Baptist hospital in San Cristobol and the public hospital in San Pedro. There are still supplies for the Baptist Hospital in La Romana to be loaded. We were informed today that the cargo with food arrived in port this day.
June 6--The Dudley group (Dwayne Bedingfield and Jim Price) arrived from Ga. The team includes medical surgeons, construction and evangelism persons for this next week. The surgeons will work in the Good Samaritan Hospital in La Romana and the rest of the group will work in Mt. Cristi.
June 7--We took the entire team to Jumbo to purchase food. They bought enough for 35 families. Pastor Manny met us and helped while I took the treasurer and we exchanged dollars for pesos at 34 to 1. We took all of the food to Mt. Largo, a poor village where Manny is planting a church with some good success. There was a brief presentation of the gospel to around 70 adults and many children. The bags of food were passed out. The group also brought new clothing; the young girls all received new dresses and the boys received shorts and pants. Every young child in the village received new clothing. This village will be one to receive weekly food distribution in our larger program, which will start in a few weeks.
June 8--This morning we take the construction and evangelism team to church at Mt. Cristi while the medical team will go to the hospital in La Romana to prepare for a week of surgeries.
As things got busy, Tim was not able to keep the daily journal up, so he recapped the entire week:
I spent the week with the Dudley GA group while Evelyn spent the week with the CMMA medical group. We started each morning at Mt. Cristi doing construction and evangelism in the church with the children. It was an extremely busy and productive week. This team spent thousands of dollars on materials for MC. We did a lot of drainage, concrete, electrical and carpentry work. At the end of the week they bought a new washing machine for the casa de ancianas, bags and bags of food, had a new water drainage well dug, purchased tons of fill gravel and some tools. It was a tremendous effort that transformed the bathhouse area and cleaned up all of the water sanitation problems that we had. The casa now has two new bath and shower rooms and a safe, clean area to walk with no standing water or place for mosquitoes to breed.
There were many small and large miracles this week. One was with the electric current where God allowed that no one was electrocuted from a mistake that was made. Another was the weather; we completed the project working through two afternoons of torrential downpours. The first one allowed us to see where additional improvements should be made, the last one rewarded us with the good results. One morning we had a flat tire on the bus.
The evangelism team reached many children and they had a wonderful time teaching and playing. One of the men who worked with was saved; he had been talked to for a year by other groups and this day he made a decision to follow Christ. This team went above and beyond anything that has been done in the past; their hard work, generosity and sacrifice was exemplary.
I was not with the surgical team in La Romana but they performed at least 16 surgeries per day saving and helping many people. I heard many wonderful comments on the effort of the group of 12. Everyone is making plans to return next year.
We were all treated to a concert last night at SCORE by the group Wings of Mercy; they are an outstanding group.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Monday, June 9, 2008
Announcements for June 8-15-08
Justin and Lori Palmer--It is our joy to publicly announce that Justin and Lori Palmer have been received as members of our church by the elders of Greenville Grace. They have each made a public profession of Christ through water baptism, have attended the “Welcome to Grace Class” and wish to make their commitment to the church public. We are excited to have them “officially” in the family!
Joining our First John Study near the end? Perhaps you began Grace since January and feel like you jumped into the book of I John part way in. Did you know that at our website, you can download all the LIFE Group questions, “Tabletalks,” Sermon audio and even Children’s Church curriculum? Simply go to Grace: Resources to find more information.
Interested in Seeing the Biblical Landscape--If you'd enjoy touring the middle east, traveling and learning about Biblical lands, Pastor Brian Delk (Castine COB) is leading another tour next spring. If you'd like more information, contact the office.
Deeper Discipleship--Have you been longing for a way to dig deeper into Scripture and live it out in a more committed way? If so, keep your eyes open for a great opportunity we’ll be unveiling soon. You won’t want to miss it! (And yes, you could ask a pastor/elder about it, if you can’t wait.)
Elder Study - Tomorrow night, 7pm
Women’s Bible Study - Tuesday morning, 9:30am
Summer Studies--begin next week at 6:30pm. (If you didn’t sign up and would like to, I’m sure if you ask nicely, you can join a class.)
UPDATE: JOY Meeting - Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social June 22 (change from June 15), at the Dearing’s place (Wayne Lakes). Meet at entrance gate at 2:30 pm. Bring a fishing pole and snacks!
Elder’s Meeting - Monday, June 16, 7pm
Blood Drive Monday June 16 from 2-6PM--see insert for more information.
Also, Cheryl Wysong is looking for 4 people willing to make two dozen cookies each. If you are willing to bake some cookies, see sign up at the table. If you have any questions about the blood drive, contact Cheryl Wysong (wysongetc@yahoo.com) or Dana Puterbaugh (dputerbaugh@cbccts.org).
Men’s Prayer Breakfast - Saturday, June 21, 7am
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels.
Joining our First John Study near the end? Perhaps you began Grace since January and feel like you jumped into the book of I John part way in. Did you know that at our website, you can download all the LIFE Group questions, “Tabletalks,” Sermon audio and even Children’s Church curriculum? Simply go to Grace: Resources to find more information.
Interested in Seeing the Biblical Landscape--If you'd enjoy touring the middle east, traveling and learning about Biblical lands, Pastor Brian Delk (Castine COB) is leading another tour next spring. If you'd like more information, contact the office.
Deeper Discipleship--Have you been longing for a way to dig deeper into Scripture and live it out in a more committed way? If so, keep your eyes open for a great opportunity we’ll be unveiling soon. You won’t want to miss it! (And yes, you could ask a pastor/elder about it, if you can’t wait.)
Elder Study - Tomorrow night, 7pm
Women’s Bible Study - Tuesday morning, 9:30am
Summer Studies--begin next week at 6:30pm. (If you didn’t sign up and would like to, I’m sure if you ask nicely, you can join a class.)
UPDATE: JOY Meeting - Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social June 22 (change from June 15), at the Dearing’s place (Wayne Lakes). Meet at entrance gate at 2:30 pm. Bring a fishing pole and snacks!
Elder’s Meeting - Monday, June 16, 7pm
Blood Drive Monday June 16 from 2-6PM--see insert for more information.
Also, Cheryl Wysong is looking for 4 people willing to make two dozen cookies each. If you are willing to bake some cookies, see sign up at the table. If you have any questions about the blood drive, contact Cheryl Wysong (wysongetc@yahoo.com) or Dana Puterbaugh (dputerbaugh@cbccts.org).
Men’s Prayer Breakfast - Saturday, June 21, 7am
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Food, Medicine--and of course--THE GOSPEL!
As you know, our missionaries with SCORE Int'l provide medical care in the Dominican Republic, accompanied with a gospel presentation. But this isn't a quick hit enterprise--hitting a town--hitting them with the gospel--and hitting the road. No, the medical mission is coupled with pastors, looking to establish churches.
When Tim and Evelyn Wolfe went to assist Bob and Anna Nilsen, Tim developed a passion to also provide the impoverished with nutritious meals. Since that vision, God has provided a warehouse and today a cargo ship arrived in port with 1,000 boxes (216,000 meals)!
Again, this isn't just passing out food to the hungry. Tim has developed a system, through pastors, that will reach the most needy and keep the pastors central in the process. (During the Wolfes' most recent trip home, you [our church] provided the equipment to supply the system.)
Monday, June 2, 2008
Announcements for June1-8-08
Psalm 19:1
“The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.”
We welcome you to our Praise in the Park service. What a joy to worship out in the midst of God’s creation. Just a glance at the trees, sky or animals around should remind you that we have a Glorious Creator. Day by Day, we live among the midst of His work, allowing us to see His sovereign power.
Psalm 19:8-9
“The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether.”
Though we can see God’s glory in creation, we must look to another source to know God’s divine will. God has recorded His Scriptures for us, so we can see His righteousness, our sinful desires, Christ’s glorious sacrifice on the cross and His powerful resurrection, and our reception of eternal life through faith in Christ. These things can’t be seen in the trees and birds, but the Word of God clearly declares these truths.
Psalm 19:11-14
“Moreover, by them Your servant is warned; In keeping them there is great reward. Who can discern his errors? Acquit me of hidden faults. Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; Let them not rule over me; Then I will be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
These truths are not just intended to “inform your mind.” There is a response that God expects. By faith, we rejoice in his work and can be acquitted of our sin. We then desire to proclaim this message clearly to others, directing our hearts toward our Savior, our Rock and Redeemer.
We pray that this morning is a public proclamation of the work of God in creation, in the offer of His Son for our sins, in the powerful work of resurrecting Christ and the gospel’s work in our lives--removing our guilt from sin and freeing us to serve Christ.
“The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.”
We welcome you to our Praise in the Park service. What a joy to worship out in the midst of God’s creation. Just a glance at the trees, sky or animals around should remind you that we have a Glorious Creator. Day by Day, we live among the midst of His work, allowing us to see His sovereign power.
Psalm 19:8-9
“The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether.”
Though we can see God’s glory in creation, we must look to another source to know God’s divine will. God has recorded His Scriptures for us, so we can see His righteousness, our sinful desires, Christ’s glorious sacrifice on the cross and His powerful resurrection, and our reception of eternal life through faith in Christ. These things can’t be seen in the trees and birds, but the Word of God clearly declares these truths.
Psalm 19:11-14
“Moreover, by them Your servant is warned; In keeping them there is great reward. Who can discern his errors? Acquit me of hidden faults. Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; Let them not rule over me; Then I will be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
These truths are not just intended to “inform your mind.” There is a response that God expects. By faith, we rejoice in his work and can be acquitted of our sin. We then desire to proclaim this message clearly to others, directing our hearts toward our Savior, our Rock and Redeemer.
We pray that this morning is a public proclamation of the work of God in creation, in the offer of His Son for our sins, in the powerful work of resurrecting Christ and the gospel’s work in our lives--removing our guilt from sin and freeing us to serve Christ.
Congratulations to our 2008 graduates!
Please join us in praying that our graduates will pursue Christ
with all of their heart as they transition into the next phase of life.
We regularly meet at 4805 Rt. 49S (about a mile south of 127/49) at 9am and 10:45am.
We will also gather for Praise in the Park (10am) on July 6 and August 3.
Interested in Seeing the Biblical Landscape--If you'd enjoy touring the middle east, traveling and learning about Biblical lands, Pastor Brian Delk (Castine COB) is leading another tour next spring. If you'd like more information, contact the office.
WELCOME NIGHT: For incoming 7th graders and their parents this Wednesday, June 4th @ 6pm. Food will be provided.
JOY Meeting: Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social, June 15, 2:30 pm at the Dearing’s place (Wayne Lakes) Bring a fishing pole!
Blood Drive Monday June 16 from 2-6 @ Greenville Grace. To help the blood drive run more efficiently, we will be scheduling appointment times to donate. Anyone stopping by to donate is possible, however scheduled appointments will have priority. To schedule an appointment you may contact any of the following:
Cheryl Wysong 547-0792 or wysongetc@yahoo.com
Dana Puterbaugh 997-2199 or dputerbaugh@cbccts.org
Community Blood Center 1-800-388-4483 or www.givingbloodnow.org
Hotdogs, baked beans, chips, cookies and punch will be provided as well as door prizes. Our goal for the drive is to register 60 donors, please consider helping us make it a reality.
SUMMER STUDIES- sign ups are almost complete, but we can still sneak people into the classes. If you’d still like to sign up for a class, use the bulletin “tear off’ and place it in the offering or hand it to a pastor/elder.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels.
Down and Out
UPDATE: We're back and running. Technology can be difficult when not working, but what an incredible means of communication when it does work. (4pm on Monday)
FYI,
Our domain server (lowesthosting.com) appears to be down for now.
Therefore, the website is not working. Neither are our (Danny, Jason, Matt, Sonda) email accounts working.
Hopefully things will be up soon.
Just wanted to let you know the problem is not your computer, nor are we ignoring your emails. We hope to be up and running soon.
FYI,
Our domain server (lowesthosting.com) appears to be down for now.
Therefore, the website is not working. Neither are our (Danny, Jason, Matt, Sonda) email accounts working.
Hopefully things will be up soon.
Just wanted to let you know the problem is not your computer, nor are we ignoring your emails. We hope to be up and running soon.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
1 John 5:16-18 Notes
Introduction
As this is arguably the most difficult chapter to interpret in 1 John, these verses are possibly the most difficult in the chapter. Much attention is given to "the sin to death" and its ambiguity, while other words/phrases can cause equal confusion.
Again, it is critical for us to remember the problem is not in the Scriptures, nor was John's text less inspired than other texts. The problem is our sin nature, which taints our submission to what the text says.
Keeping in mind that the previous passage (13-15) directly speaks to the believers' ministry in prayer (We can know we are His. By being His child, we know He hears our prayers. Because He hears our prayers, He will fulfill His will...conforming us to the image of His Son.), John now speaks to the specific prayer ministry from believer to believer.
Commentary
v 16
Sees--John is not saying you have to directly witness your brother's sin. While the word here can (and often does) mean to "see with the eyes," the word can also mean "to know or perceive." Therefore, just as witnesses in the church discipline process (Matthew 18:15-20) are not necessarily observers of the particular sin offense, but there to oversee the interaction and the brother's attitude, John is not requiring that only eyewitness observations of sin may be prayed for.
However, it should be equally stated that John did not choose to use the word "hear." John is not encouraging the believer to participate in rumor or gossip, assuming their brother has sinned simply because of an alleged tale. John is encouraging the person who has perceived that a brother has sinned to make a request.
his brother--While John regularly uses the term "brother" to refer to fellow believers, this does not have to be the case. In fact, as John has been trying to help the church see the distinction between genuine brothers and those who merely profess to be their brother, he often simply uses the term "brother" for each. Evidence of this can be seen in 2:11, 3:10, 3:15, 3:17, and 4:20. Therefore, it is not necessary for us to deal with the "sin to death" as something a believer must be capable of committing.
a sin not to death--This is the literal rendering, though "a sin leading to death" can accurately convey John's intent, I believe the word "leading" can cause people to think this is speaking of physical death. I do not believe that is John's intent, but a discussion on what "a sin not to death" means will be explained when we look at "a sin to death" below.
he shall ask and God will for him give life to those who commit sin not to death.--Even in the Greek, this is a bit awkward and clunky. Literally, it should read: "he shall ask and he will for him give life, those who commit sin not to death." For sake of interpretation, many translations change the underlined pronoun to "God" for they believe this is what John intended. However, this is not an syntactical (based upon language) decision, but a doctrinal one. It seems inconsistent to with Scripture to credit a believer with giving life, instead of directing that gift to God. However, the Scriptures have before made such a suggestion:
a sin to death--What is the "sin to death." There are differing opinions:
1. Physical death. Clearly, there are sins that can lead to physical death. Not only can some ravage our bodies and cause us to physically break down, Paul even tells us that some believers are killed by God due to their sinful attitude (1 Corinthians 11:30). However, John's emphasis does not appear to be on the physical. He states that "he will to him give life" and every time 1 John uses life the author is speaking toward eternal life. (The same argument could be made toward 1 John's usage of death.)
2. Loss of salvation. Not only is this problematic with other passages in Scripture (Ephesians 1:13-14, Romans 8:31-39, and John 10...just to name three texts), it is also problematic for this passage. In verse 18, John clearly says that the one who is born of God cannot be touched by the evil one. Therefore, John affirms the eternal security of the beleiver in this very passage.
3. Apostasy. Understanding that "brother" does not have to mean a believer (see above), John appears to be speaking of the person who turns from God, though at one time professed to be a part of the community. This would be consistent with the unpardonable sin as blasphemy of the Spirit. This would be the person which 1 John 2:18-19 calls the antichrist. This person has professed to be a believer (for they professed to be of us), but showed they were not by leaving. Hebrews 6:1-8 also seems to shed light upon this.
Since we cannot see the heart (1 Samuel 16:7), members of a church are left to assess confessions and fruit. A person may claim to be a believer, may participate in ordinances, may show and obedience that appears to be fruit and may even instruct others accurately in the faith, but this does not mean for sure that they are a believer. John has already explained to us (2:19) that if the person were to depart either in faith or in practice, that would be the sign that they were not truly of us.
So why wouldn't John simply say this? Well, apostasy, by definition, is difficult to classify. A bold non-believer (either antagonistic or simply apathetic toward the message) is not an apostate, they are simply just an unbeliever. Even one who claims to be a Christian but clearly rejects (either in ignorance or rebellion) the gospel is not an apostate, they too are simply a non-believer. To "qualify" as an apostate...the person once looked like a believer (including professing Christ) but later abandons. It can often look confusing in Scripture, because it almost looks like a person lost their salvation, for similar to John calling them "brother" (see above) it could cause some to read the text and think the person really was saved.
It appears that A rebellion against Christ and His gospel, from a person who once professed Him, is the sin to death.
So is it wrong to pray for an apostate? Some people wonder if it wrong to pray for an apostate person. Without committing too much time to that issue right now, I do think it is important to notice that is not the direct point of John's statement. He is not writing to dissuade a person from praying for an apostate person, he is writing to encourage the person to pray for their brother committing the sin not leading to death.
v 17
All unrighteousness is sin. This may seem like "well duh" redundancy until we look at it closer. What we translate as "unrighteousness" is actually the word for righteousness with an "a" preceding it. Just like atheism means one who is not a theist and atypical means not typical. Similarly, John is saying "all that is not righteous is sin." John is reminding us that all sin causes us to fall short of the glory of God. We may be tempted to think that since all sin does not lead to death, sin is not a problem. However, any act, thought or word which is not righteous is sin.
v 18
Is Born of God. In the 6 verses using "born" from 1 John, John clearly refers to believers. This language clearly points a person back to John 3:1-21...that the Spirit does the work of causing a person to be born again, trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. The person here is clearly one who is in a right relationship with God through the work of Jesus Christ.
No one who is born of God sins. John has already clearly spoken against "sinless perfection" (1 John 1:5-10). Similar to the language in 3:7-10, John is speaking against perpetual, unrepentant sin. A genuine believer will not spiral into the sin leading to death, for he is protected by...
He who was born of God. In 5:1, John has already spoken of the believer and of Jesus being born of God. The contrast between "is" and "was" helps us see the shift in his focus. A believer does not need to fear the evil one because he is protected by Jesus Christ Himself. He (a believer) will not commit the sin to death because He (the Savior) will not allow it!
the evil one does not touch him. Satan may rule this world right now, but it is not a sovereign rule. He is not free to act and will however he pleases. Even his rebellion is submitted to the permission of the Father. Therefore, with Christ guarding the life of the believer, He does not need to worry about the attack of Satan, for Christ is protecting him. (Conversely, this also means the Christian practice of blaming our sin upon Satan is not good theology. If he cannot touch us, then we cannot blame our actions on him. See James 1:12-18 for a better explanation regarding sin.)
Exposition
As said earlier, the Scriptures teach that a believer cannot lose their salvation. The classic fear generated which resists this view claims that all motivation to serve God is gone. If a person is saved, and they cannot lose their salvation, what is the purpose of pursuing Christ...does it really matter? However, this passage encourages us to pray for our brother (or sister) who is sinning. While John concludes the message reminding us that Satan cannot touch us, he begins the passage by sharing one way God protects the believer.
The church is a necessary component of the process. God will use the prayers of fellow believers to help call a child from their sin. Your prayers can be instrumental in calling a brother away from their sin. Of course, to do so, you must be involved closely in one another's lives.
God saves His children and causes them to be born again. He also keeps them and prevents them from falling away. He guards them so that the evil one cannot even touch them. However, He does not do this in completely inexplicable ways. In His great grace, He has given us one another, to hold each other accountable, to know each other, to pray for one another and even confront one another. He is the One who makes His bride spotless and will present her to Himself, but He even uses members of the bride to help one other become more radiant.
Conclusion
This kind of love for one another, and these kind of prayers for one another's lives surely cannot come from isolated contact. The church cannot be the kind of place where a person sneaks in the back, sits and slips out the door when it is over. A person causes the body to suffer (and their own walk) when they neglect the public assembly (Hebrews 10:19-25. It is foolish for a person to say that they do not need the church for they know they are a believer and God will keep them from swaying. They are turning from one of the very means God has provided to keep them from perpetual sin.
If people do not know you well enough to know how to pray for you when you sin, then you need to get involved with others so that they can. If you are not getting involved in others lives, so that you can pray for them when they sin, you are neglecting your responsibility to others. If your walk is aloof and detached from others, you are not living God's righteous desire.
And as John has just reminded us, if it isn't righteous, it is sin.
As this is arguably the most difficult chapter to interpret in 1 John, these verses are possibly the most difficult in the chapter. Much attention is given to "the sin to death" and its ambiguity, while other words/phrases can cause equal confusion.
Again, it is critical for us to remember the problem is not in the Scriptures, nor was John's text less inspired than other texts. The problem is our sin nature, which taints our submission to what the text says.
Keeping in mind that the previous passage (13-15) directly speaks to the believers' ministry in prayer (We can know we are His. By being His child, we know He hears our prayers. Because He hears our prayers, He will fulfill His will...conforming us to the image of His Son.), John now speaks to the specific prayer ministry from believer to believer.
Commentary
v 16
Sees--John is not saying you have to directly witness your brother's sin. While the word here can (and often does) mean to "see with the eyes," the word can also mean "to know or perceive." Therefore, just as witnesses in the church discipline process (Matthew 18:15-20) are not necessarily observers of the particular sin offense, but there to oversee the interaction and the brother's attitude, John is not requiring that only eyewitness observations of sin may be prayed for.
However, it should be equally stated that John did not choose to use the word "hear." John is not encouraging the believer to participate in rumor or gossip, assuming their brother has sinned simply because of an alleged tale. John is encouraging the person who has perceived that a brother has sinned to make a request.
his brother--While John regularly uses the term "brother" to refer to fellow believers, this does not have to be the case. In fact, as John has been trying to help the church see the distinction between genuine brothers and those who merely profess to be their brother, he often simply uses the term "brother" for each. Evidence of this can be seen in 2:11, 3:10, 3:15, 3:17, and 4:20. Therefore, it is not necessary for us to deal with the "sin to death" as something a believer must be capable of committing.
a sin not to death--This is the literal rendering, though "a sin leading to death" can accurately convey John's intent, I believe the word "leading" can cause people to think this is speaking of physical death. I do not believe that is John's intent, but a discussion on what "a sin not to death" means will be explained when we look at "a sin to death" below.
he shall ask and God will for him give life to those who commit sin not to death.--Even in the Greek, this is a bit awkward and clunky. Literally, it should read: "he shall ask and he will for him give life, those who commit sin not to death." For sake of interpretation, many translations change the underlined pronoun to "God" for they believe this is what John intended. However, this is not an syntactical (based upon language) decision, but a doctrinal one. It seems inconsistent to with Scripture to credit a believer with giving life, instead of directing that gift to God. However, the Scriptures have before made such a suggestion:
My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.--James 5:19-20
But you, beloved, ought to remember the words that were spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they were saying to you, "In the last time there will be mockers, following after their own ungodly lusts." These are the ones who cause divisions, worldly-minded, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh.--Jude 17-23Therefore, I do not believe it is necessary to change the pronoun to a reference to God (which is grammatically difficult to justify). John can speak here as a brother's prayer being a secondary agent without neglecting that it is clearly God's work to give life. Simply the action of asking/requesting shows the brother does not consider himself personally capable of effecting this change. He is calling upon God to give life to his brother, understanding God is the primary agent.
a sin to death--What is the "sin to death." There are differing opinions:
1. Physical death. Clearly, there are sins that can lead to physical death. Not only can some ravage our bodies and cause us to physically break down, Paul even tells us that some believers are killed by God due to their sinful attitude (1 Corinthians 11:30). However, John's emphasis does not appear to be on the physical. He states that "he will to him give life" and every time 1 John uses life the author is speaking toward eternal life. (The same argument could be made toward 1 John's usage of death.)
2. Loss of salvation. Not only is this problematic with other passages in Scripture (Ephesians 1:13-14, Romans 8:31-39, and John 10...just to name three texts), it is also problematic for this passage. In verse 18, John clearly says that the one who is born of God cannot be touched by the evil one. Therefore, John affirms the eternal security of the beleiver in this very passage.
3. Apostasy. Understanding that "brother" does not have to mean a believer (see above), John appears to be speaking of the person who turns from God, though at one time professed to be a part of the community. This would be consistent with the unpardonable sin as blasphemy of the Spirit. This would be the person which 1 John 2:18-19 calls the antichrist. This person has professed to be a believer (for they professed to be of us), but showed they were not by leaving. Hebrews 6:1-8 also seems to shed light upon this.
Since we cannot see the heart (1 Samuel 16:7), members of a church are left to assess confessions and fruit. A person may claim to be a believer, may participate in ordinances, may show and obedience that appears to be fruit and may even instruct others accurately in the faith, but this does not mean for sure that they are a believer. John has already explained to us (2:19) that if the person were to depart either in faith or in practice, that would be the sign that they were not truly of us.
So why wouldn't John simply say this? Well, apostasy, by definition, is difficult to classify. A bold non-believer (either antagonistic or simply apathetic toward the message) is not an apostate, they are simply just an unbeliever. Even one who claims to be a Christian but clearly rejects (either in ignorance or rebellion) the gospel is not an apostate, they too are simply a non-believer. To "qualify" as an apostate...the person once looked like a believer (including professing Christ) but later abandons. It can often look confusing in Scripture, because it almost looks like a person lost their salvation, for similar to John calling them "brother" (see above) it could cause some to read the text and think the person really was saved.
It appears that A rebellion against Christ and His gospel, from a person who once professed Him, is the sin to death.
So is it wrong to pray for an apostate? Some people wonder if it wrong to pray for an apostate person. Without committing too much time to that issue right now, I do think it is important to notice that is not the direct point of John's statement. He is not writing to dissuade a person from praying for an apostate person, he is writing to encourage the person to pray for their brother committing the sin not leading to death.
v 17
All unrighteousness is sin. This may seem like "well duh" redundancy until we look at it closer. What we translate as "unrighteousness" is actually the word for righteousness with an "a" preceding it. Just like atheism means one who is not a theist and atypical means not typical. Similarly, John is saying "all that is not righteous is sin." John is reminding us that all sin causes us to fall short of the glory of God. We may be tempted to think that since all sin does not lead to death, sin is not a problem. However, any act, thought or word which is not righteous is sin.
v 18
Is Born of God. In the 6 verses using "born" from 1 John, John clearly refers to believers. This language clearly points a person back to John 3:1-21...that the Spirit does the work of causing a person to be born again, trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. The person here is clearly one who is in a right relationship with God through the work of Jesus Christ.
No one who is born of God sins. John has already clearly spoken against "sinless perfection" (1 John 1:5-10). Similar to the language in 3:7-10, John is speaking against perpetual, unrepentant sin. A genuine believer will not spiral into the sin leading to death, for he is protected by...
He who was born of God. In 5:1, John has already spoken of the believer and of Jesus being born of God. The contrast between "is" and "was" helps us see the shift in his focus. A believer does not need to fear the evil one because he is protected by Jesus Christ Himself. He (a believer) will not commit the sin to death because He (the Savior) will not allow it!
the evil one does not touch him. Satan may rule this world right now, but it is not a sovereign rule. He is not free to act and will however he pleases. Even his rebellion is submitted to the permission of the Father. Therefore, with Christ guarding the life of the believer, He does not need to worry about the attack of Satan, for Christ is protecting him. (Conversely, this also means the Christian practice of blaming our sin upon Satan is not good theology. If he cannot touch us, then we cannot blame our actions on him. See James 1:12-18 for a better explanation regarding sin.)
Exposition
As said earlier, the Scriptures teach that a believer cannot lose their salvation. The classic fear generated which resists this view claims that all motivation to serve God is gone. If a person is saved, and they cannot lose their salvation, what is the purpose of pursuing Christ...does it really matter? However, this passage encourages us to pray for our brother (or sister) who is sinning. While John concludes the message reminding us that Satan cannot touch us, he begins the passage by sharing one way God protects the believer.
The church is a necessary component of the process. God will use the prayers of fellow believers to help call a child from their sin. Your prayers can be instrumental in calling a brother away from their sin. Of course, to do so, you must be involved closely in one another's lives.
God saves His children and causes them to be born again. He also keeps them and prevents them from falling away. He guards them so that the evil one cannot even touch them. However, He does not do this in completely inexplicable ways. In His great grace, He has given us one another, to hold each other accountable, to know each other, to pray for one another and even confront one another. He is the One who makes His bride spotless and will present her to Himself, but He even uses members of the bride to help one other become more radiant.
Conclusion
This kind of love for one another, and these kind of prayers for one another's lives surely cannot come from isolated contact. The church cannot be the kind of place where a person sneaks in the back, sits and slips out the door when it is over. A person causes the body to suffer (and their own walk) when they neglect the public assembly (Hebrews 10:19-25. It is foolish for a person to say that they do not need the church for they know they are a believer and God will keep them from swaying. They are turning from one of the very means God has provided to keep them from perpetual sin.
If people do not know you well enough to know how to pray for you when you sin, then you need to get involved with others so that they can. If you are not getting involved in others lives, so that you can pray for them when they sin, you are neglecting your responsibility to others. If your walk is aloof and detached from others, you are not living God's righteous desire.
And as John has just reminded us, if it isn't righteous, it is sin.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Announcements for May 25-June 1
2008 graduates- Graduation announcements and Open House information is posted on the screens before the services. Please be sure to check the screens or contact the office for dates and times.
Elder’s Study- To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism- Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
SUMMER SCHEDULE- Just a reminder, there will be no Sunday School and Children’s Church this summer, but we will simply have two services (9:00-10:15am, 10:45-Noon)
LADIES SUMMER STUDY
“Calm My Anxious Heart,” Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:00 am June 10th - July 15. This will be a six week study. Childcare will be provided. Deadline to sign-up is today!
PRAISE IN THE PARK- Come join us at the Band Shell next Sunday, 10:00 am for our Praise Service. In case of rain, we will be meeting here at the church.
SUMMER STUDIES- Sunday nights, June 15th - August 3rd, 6:30pm - 8:00pm. To allow us to order books and arrange childcare for the summer, please sign up today or contact the office this week.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. If you’re interested in helping, please sign up at the table in Narthex.
Elder’s Study- To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism- Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
SUMMER SCHEDULE- Just a reminder, there will be no Sunday School and Children’s Church this summer, but we will simply have two services (9:00-10:15am, 10:45-Noon)
LADIES SUMMER STUDY
“Calm My Anxious Heart,” Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:00 am June 10th - July 15. This will be a six week study. Childcare will be provided. Deadline to sign-up is today!
PRAISE IN THE PARK- Come join us at the Band Shell next Sunday, 10:00 am for our Praise Service. In case of rain, we will be meeting here at the church.
SUMMER STUDIES- Sunday nights, June 15th - August 3rd, 6:30pm - 8:00pm. To allow us to order books and arrange childcare for the summer, please sign up today or contact the office this week.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. If you’re interested in helping, please sign up at the table in Narthex.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Announcements for May 18-25-08
2008 Graduates--Are you graduating from school this coming year? We would love to recognize you during the June 1 service in the park. If you would like your “open house” and graduation announced, we would need to receive a picture, your graduation information, and your open house schedule by May 18th.
Elder’s Study--To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism--Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
SUMMER STUDIES--Sunday nights, June 15th - August 3rd, 6:30pm - 8:00pm. Sign-up sheets for classes on table in Narthex or tear-off portion of bulletin.
PRAISE IN THE PARK--Make plans to join us this summer at the Greenville City Park Band Shell on June 1, July 6 and August 3 at 10am.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight! There is a tentative meeting set for Saturday, May 17 immediately following Men’s Prayer Breakfast.
WOMEN’S SUMMER STUDY--Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:00 am June 10th - July 15. Sign up in the Narthex for “Calm My Anxious Heart.” This will be a six week study. Childcare will be provided.
PRAISE IN THE PARK--Make plans to join us this summer at the Greenville City Park Band Shell on June 1, July 6 and August 3 at 10am.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight! There is a tentative meeting set for Saturday, May 17 immediately following Men’s Prayer Breakfast.
WOMEN’S SUMMER STUDY--Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:00 am June 10th - July 15. Sign up in the Narthex for “Calm My Anxious Heart.” This will be a six week study. Childcare will be provided.
SUE HOUSE--It is our joy to publicly announce that Sue House has been received as a member of our church by the elders of Greenville Grace. She has made a public profession of Christ through water baptism, has attended the “Welcome to Grace Class” and wished to make her commitment to the church public. We are excited to have you “officially” in the family, Sue!
LADIES SUMMER STUDY
Ladies, if you’re tired of worrying about all the “what ifs” in your life and want to experience the calm and contentment promised in Scripture, Calm My Anxious Heart is what you’ve been looking for. See dates & times in the announcement box of your bulletin.
SUMMER SCHEDULE STARTS NEXT SUNDAY
1st service 9:00am - 10:15am
2nd service 10:45am - noon
No Sunday School
LADIES SUMMER STUDY
Ladies, if you’re tired of worrying about all the “what ifs” in your life and want to experience the calm and contentment promised in Scripture, Calm My Anxious Heart is what you’ve been looking for. See dates & times in the announcement box of your bulletin.
SUMMER SCHEDULE STARTS NEXT SUNDAY
1st service 9:00am - 10:15am
2nd service 10:45am - noon
No Sunday School
Reach the Nations...from your home
Do you have a working knowledge of another language? If so, check out this site!
If you have a working knowledge of English, please just schedule an appointment with me, to help me out.
If you have a working knowledge of English, please just schedule an appointment with me, to help me out.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Announcements for May 11-18-08
Happy Mothers' Day
"Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying, "Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all." Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.--Proverbs 31:28-30
We praise God for the women of our congregation, but today, we especially praise God in the following ways:
We praise God for new mothers. We are thankful that God has blessed our congregation with many children this year, and pray that God grant our mothers and fathers the grace to raise their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
We praise God for faithful mothers. To those who have continued to nurture and raise their children in a godly manner, we praise the Lord for your work and for your testimony.
We praise God for yearning mothers. To those who long to have children and have not yet been granted a child, we want you to know we are praying for you, love you and pray that your relationship with Christ deepens as He carries you through this time. We join you in praying you would have the opportunity to raise up a disciple of Christ in your own home.
We praise God for transitioning mothers. To those who have seen their children marry, pursue education or move out of the home, we are thankful for your faithful service while your children were in your home and are praying for you as you explore the depths of your "new role."
We praise God for departed mothers. This Mothers' Day reminds some of the sting of death as they have lost their mother during this year. We want you to know we are praying that God would grant you comfort, and allow you to treasure memories of your mother.
We praise God for those who are not mothers. We're thankful that the gospel allows opportunity for all women to invest in others and help raise up disciples (Titus 2). We thank God for your participation in the gospel with us!
"Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying, "Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all." Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.--Proverbs 31:28-30
We praise God for the women of our congregation, but today, we especially praise God in the following ways:
We praise God for new mothers. We are thankful that God has blessed our congregation with many children this year, and pray that God grant our mothers and fathers the grace to raise their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
We praise God for faithful mothers. To those who have continued to nurture and raise their children in a godly manner, we praise the Lord for your work and for your testimony.
We praise God for yearning mothers. To those who long to have children and have not yet been granted a child, we want you to know we are praying for you, love you and pray that your relationship with Christ deepens as He carries you through this time. We join you in praying you would have the opportunity to raise up a disciple of Christ in your own home.
We praise God for transitioning mothers. To those who have seen their children marry, pursue education or move out of the home, we are thankful for your faithful service while your children were in your home and are praying for you as you explore the depths of your "new role."
We praise God for departed mothers. This Mothers' Day reminds some of the sting of death as they have lost their mother during this year. We want you to know we are praying that God would grant you comfort, and allow you to treasure memories of your mother.
We praise God for those who are not mothers. We're thankful that the gospel allows opportunity for all women to invest in others and help raise up disciples (Titus 2). We thank God for your participation in the gospel with us!
2008 Graduates--Are you graduating from school this coming year? We would love to recognize you during the June 1 service in the park. If you would like your “open house” and graduation announced, we would need to receive a picture, your graduation information, and your open house schedule by May 18th.
Elder’s Study--To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism--Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
Elder’s Study--To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism--Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
SUMMER SCHEDULE BEGINS MAY 25TH
1st service 9:00am - 10:15am
2nd service 10:45am - noon
No Sunday School
“Summer Studies” 6:30pm - 8:00pm (June 15 - Aug. 3)
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight! There is a tentative meeting set for Saturday, May 17 immediately following Men’s Prayer Breakfast.
PRAISE IN THE PARK--Make plans to join us this summer at the Greenville City Park Band Shell on June 1, July 6 and August 3 at 10am.
WOMEN’S SUMMER STUDY--Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:00 am starting June 10th. Sign up in the Narthex for “Calm My Anxious Heart.” This will be a six week study.
SUMMER STUDIES--Classes will go from June 15 through August 3rd. Sign-up sheets for classes on table in Narthex.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Mothers' Day...a little early
Dads, that bouquet of flowers for Mothers' Day (subtle male alert: THIS SUNDAY IS MOTHERS' DAY) is rather empty, if you don't strive to serve your wife throughout the year. It's a hard task (in our fallen state), but by the grace of God, we can faithfully serve.
The following post Modesty: A Word to Fathers examines one way we can serve our family. If you think the article is an exhortation to quit wearing that speedo around the house, CJ has a much stronger exhortation than that:
Dads, I encourage you to read the article, apply the exhortation...and while you're at it, lose the speedo too.
The following post Modesty: A Word to Fathers examines one way we can serve our family. If you think the article is an exhortation to quit wearing that speedo around the house, CJ has a much stronger exhortation than that:
Dads, I want to urge you to take responsibility for your daughters’ dress. Fathers are absolutely essential to the cultivation of modesty. When a young lady dresses immodestly, it usually means her father has failed to lead, care for and protect her. Without a father’s care and protection, she may be daily exposed to the lustful minds of men.(That's only the opening paragraph!)
Dads, I encourage you to read the article, apply the exhortation...and while you're at it, lose the speedo too.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
"Government and Religion"
While we should participate in the process of our government, it is important to remember our hope does not lie in any political office. From Phil Johnson:
I hope you vote. I hope you're a good citizen in every way. And I hope you use your vote conscientiously and with discernment. But if your hope for the future of our society rests in the democratic process, or if you think the fortunes of the church rise or fall according to which party is in power, you need to look again at how the people of God have historically made their influence felt in society. You'll discover that those times when the church has grown the most and when revival has spread furthest are times when believers have been most concerned about personal holiness and evangelism.Read the whole article here.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Sermon Cross References
Your brain (or wrist) may have locked up if you were trying to keep up with Matt's references at the beginning!
So relax, ice down the carpotunnel, and see below. Matt has provided the list of resources for us.
Praise God that the wrath we deserved was put upon Christ at the cross!
Genesis 3:13-19
Genesis 6:5-7
2 Chronicles 36:15-16
Psalm 2:12
Psalm 7:11-13
Psalm 90:11
Psalm 130:3
Isaiah 33:12-14
Isaiah 59:18
Isaiah 66:15
Ezekiel 8:18
Ezekiel 18:4
Habakkuk 1:13
Matthew 5:29-30
Matthew 13:41-42
Luke 12:4-5
John 3:18
John 3:36
John 8:24
Romans 1:18
Romans 2:5
Romans 6:23a
Romans 12:19
Ephesians 5:6
2 Thessalonians 1:7b-9
Hebrews 10:30-31
2 Peter 3:7
Jude 5-7
Revelation 6:15-17
Revelation 19:15
You can also find the audio here.
So relax, ice down the carpotunnel, and see below. Matt has provided the list of resources for us.
Praise God that the wrath we deserved was put upon Christ at the cross!
Genesis 3:13-19
Genesis 6:5-7
2 Chronicles 36:15-16
Psalm 2:12
Psalm 7:11-13
Psalm 90:11
Psalm 130:3
Isaiah 33:12-14
Isaiah 59:18
Isaiah 66:15
Ezekiel 8:18
Ezekiel 18:4
Habakkuk 1:13
Matthew 5:29-30
Matthew 13:41-42
Luke 12:4-5
John 3:18
John 3:36
John 8:24
Romans 1:18
Romans 2:5
Romans 6:23a
Romans 12:19
Ephesians 5:6
2 Thessalonians 1:7b-9
Hebrews 10:30-31
2 Peter 3:7
Jude 5-7
Revelation 6:15-17
Revelation 19:15
For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.--Romans 5:6-9
You can also find the audio here.
Announcements for May 4-11-08
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight! There is a tentative meeting set for Saturday, May 17 immediately following Men’s Prayer Breakfast.
SUMMER SCHEDULE BEGINS MAY 25TH
1st service 9:00am - 10:15am
2nd service 10:45am - noon
No Sunday School
“Summer Studies” 6:30pm - 8:00pm (June 15 - Aug. 3)
PRAISE IN THE PARK--Make plans to join us this summer at the Greenville City Park Band Shell on June 1, July 6 and August 3 at 10am.
SUMMER PLANS?--Each summer, we provide Sunday evening classes to help equip you in your pursuit of Christ. So, keep your eyes (and Sunday evenings) open for the announcement of this year’s “Summer Studies.” Classes will begin June 15 through August 3rd.
2008 Graduates--Are you graduating from school this coming year? We would love to recognize you during the June 1 service in the park. If you would like your “open house” and graduation announced, we would need to receive a picture, your graduation information, and your open house schedule by May 18th.
BABY DEDICATIONS: If you’ve noticed the large number of babies, but wondered when the dedications happen, we are not storing them all up for Mother’s Day. In the past, we’ve had special services (once or twice a year) where most of the dedications took place. However, with the large number of children the Lord has blessed our church with, they could feel impersonal and cause us to miss the point. We would like to focus on one family per service in a dedication, that way the church is reminded more clearly to pray for the entire family and support the parents as they raise their children. If you are interested in having your baby dedicated, we encourage you to grab an information brochure over at the coffee bar and then contact the office.
Elder’s Study--To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism--Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
Elder’s Study--To date, we have offered the Elders’ Study (by Strauch) about six different times in our church. However, we have not kept track of those who have taken the study. If you have participated in the past, would you please contact the office. (either by call, email, or the tear off portion of your bulletin.)
Baptism--Are you interested in obeying the Lord in water baptism? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Announcements for April 27-May 3-08
MICHELLE BENEDICT--It is our joy to publicly announce that Michelle Benedict has been received as a member of our church by the elders of Greenville Grace. Michelle has made a public profession of Christ through water baptism, has attended the “Welcome to Grace Class” and wished to make her commitment to the church public. We are excited to have you “officially” in the family, Michelle!
EVANGELISM HELP--"Way of the Master” has provided a great “You-Tube” clip that could be used to begin an evangelism discussion with others. Also, Bob Nilsen has some great encouragement about sharing our faith (“Because Christ has paid the penalty for our sin in His own blood, there is nothing that we need to do except PREACH THE WORD AND PRAY! We don’t have to depend on personality, seminary education, money, good looks, persuasive words, nothing in ourselves. Just the simple preaching of the Word of God”...just a piece of it). Both these tools are available on our church blog (ggbcnews.blogspot.com). Check them out!
PRAISES--Did you miss the news about Elizabeth Pierce and Yosi Nilsen? Weren’t able to make the baptism last week and hear the testimonies? Check out our Grace Blog (ggbcnews.blogspot.com) to catch these updates!
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight! There is a tentative meeting set for Saturday, May 17 immediately following Men’s Prayer Breakfast.
BABY DEDICATIONS: If you’ve noticed the large number of babies, but wondered when the dedications happen, we are not storing them all up for Mother’s Day. In the past, we’ve had special services (once or twice a year) where most of the dedications took place. However, with the large number of children the Lord has blessed our church with, they could feel impersonal and cause us to miss the point. We would like to focus on one family per service in a dedication, that way the church is reminded more clearly to pray for the entire family and support the parents as they raise their children. If you are interested in having your baby dedicated, we encourage you to grab an information brochure over at the coffee bar and then contact the office.
SUMMER PLANS?--Each summer, we provide Sunday evening classes to help equip you in your pursuit of Christ. So, keep your eyes (and Sunday evenings) open for the announcement of this year’s “Summer Studies.” Classes will begin June 15 through August 3rd.
BAPTISM--Were you interested in baptism but couldn’t participate in the service last week? We are in the process of planning another baptism. Contact the church office to set up an appointment.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Great Evangelism Tool
Can email, You-tube and even The Moment of Truth be used to reach people for Christ?
It can here.
In the above video (which you could copy the address and paste it in an email to others) Ray Comfort examines how we can consider ourselves to be good, even after we confess multiple sins. Comfort presents the gospel (as Way of the Master always does) in a clear, simple and engaging way.
Using this video could be an interesting way to start a gospel conversation with someone you love.
Encouragement from Bob Nilsen
Received the following encouragement from Bob Nilsen, one of our missionaries from Grace serving in the Dominican Republic:
Only Jesus is perfect man Hebrews 2:9-14
Heb 2:14 Since then the children are sharers in flesh and blood, he also himself in like manner partook of the same;
Heb 2:16 For verily not to angels doth he give help, but he giveth help to the seed of Abraham.
Heb 2:17 Wherefore it behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren,
Only Christ is completely God Hebrews 1:8-12
Heb 1:8 but of the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever
Only Jesus Christ is the God-Man 1 Timothy 3:16
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Only Jesus is absolutely sinless II Corinthians 5:21
Him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; that we might become the righteousness of God in him.
Only Jesus was a willing and sufficient sacrifice I Peter 2:24
who his own self bare our sins in his body upon the tree, that we, having died unto sins, might live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.
Only Jesus Christ rose from the dead I Corinthians 15:1-8
1Co 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which also I received: that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
1Co 15:4 and that he was buried; and that he hath been raised on the third day according to the scriptures;
1Co 15:5 and that he appeared to Cephas; then to the twelve;
1Co 15:6 then he appeared to above five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain until now, but some are fallen asleep;
1Co 15:7 then he appeared to James; then to all the apostles;
1Co 15:8 and last of all, as to the child untimely born, he appeared to me also.
Only Christ is the meditator between God and Man I Timothy 2:5
For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, himself man, Christ Jesus,
Only Christ is our sin bearer II Corinthians 5:21
Him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; that we might become the righteousness of God in him.
Redemption has been completely ACCOMPLISHED in our behalf!
REDEMPTION is APPLIED to our hearts only by faith in His finished work.
Eph 2:8 for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
Eph 2:9 not of works, that no man should glory.
Tit 3:5 not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
THIS MAKES THE CENTRAL MESSAGE OF MISSIONS CLEAR !
Rom 10:13 for, Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Rom 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
Rom 10:15 and how shall they preach, except they be sent
Because Christ has paid the penalty for our sin in His own blood, there is nothing that we need to do except PREACH THE WORD AND PRAY! WE don’t have to depend on personality, seminary education, money, good looks, persuasive words, nothing in ourselves. Just the simple preaching of the Word of God!
1Co 1:17 For Christ sent… to preach the gospel: not in wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made void.
1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God.
1Co 1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And the discernment of the discerning will I bring to nought.
1Co 1:20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
1Co 1:21 For seeing that in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom knew not God, it was God's good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save them that believe.
1Co 1:22 Seeing that Jews ask for signs, and Greeks seek after wisdom:
1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumbling block, and unto Gentiles foolishness;
Which program we use is not the issue. We can use the Roman’s Road; Evangicube; 4 Spiritual Laws; gospel blimps; stand on a street corner with a placard; or never leave the preaching of Jn. 3:16, but we must do something!
Someone has said:
“Your either a missionary-or a mission field”
“Millions dying have never heard-because millions here have never cared!”
“God commands: “$end missionaries“-
Take away $-end missionaries”
“The church’s goal has not been reached-until the unreached have been reached!”
“Jehovah’s witnesses don’t believe in hell-and neither do most Christians!”
"Christians don't tell lies they just go to church and sing them" - A.W. Tozer
Is it possible we have a problems with missions? Is it possible we do not like how much it costs to send missionaries to live in foreign lands? Is it possible we not want to send our sons and daughters to labor among the lost? Is it possible we not wish to go ourselves and leave the comforts of the our modern world?
Missionaries need not sell themselves. Our goal is not to build big churches, and certainly not to build American churches all over the world. Our goal is not to have fine houses or make ourselves famous. “We preach Christ crucified and risen!” He is the one who has Accomplished our redemption. “We preach the foolishness of the cross.” It is only by the application of the blood to the door posts of our hearts that Redemption is applied to our lives. It is the Incomparable Christ that is at the heart of missions. He is the Head of the body. Missions is about Christ.
Of course you are sending sinful missionaries abroad. Of course they lack wisdom. Of course they are often ‘rude and crude.’ Of course they get sick. But what else does Christ have to work with in this earth other than sinful creatures-vessels of clay-like ourselves- saved by His grace? What you send are ambassadors in whose hearts dwells the Spirit of the living God. Do they fail you? Do they disappoint? Of course they will. Tell me, Who will carry this message of the Incomparable Christ if they do not? Beloved, you send Christ to them when you send missionaries. Never forget that. If you want a better representative-go yourself! Hey, now there's a novel idea.
REDEMPTION ACCOMPLISHED REDEMPTION APPLIED
I wish to borrow the above title of a book written by John Murray for the purposes of this short encouragement. Another book title I would like to borrow is “THE INCOMPARABLE CHRIST” written by J. Oswald Sanders. These two titles express the central person of missions-the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ is the agent of our redemption and the sole person able to accomplish it. There is no other person even capable of redeeming mankind. Of all the persons claiming to be able to redeem man:Only Jesus is perfect man Hebrews 2:9-14
Heb 2:14 Since then the children are sharers in flesh and blood, he also himself in like manner partook of the same;
Heb 2:16 For verily not to angels doth he give help, but he giveth help to the seed of Abraham.
Heb 2:17 Wherefore it behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren,
Only Christ is completely God Hebrews 1:8-12
Heb 1:8 but of the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever
Only Jesus Christ is the God-Man 1 Timothy 3:16
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Only Jesus is absolutely sinless II Corinthians 5:21
Him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; that we might become the righteousness of God in him.
Only Jesus was a willing and sufficient sacrifice I Peter 2:24
who his own self bare our sins in his body upon the tree, that we, having died unto sins, might live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.
Only Jesus Christ rose from the dead I Corinthians 15:1-8
1Co 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which also I received: that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
1Co 15:4 and that he was buried; and that he hath been raised on the third day according to the scriptures;
1Co 15:5 and that he appeared to Cephas; then to the twelve;
1Co 15:6 then he appeared to above five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain until now, but some are fallen asleep;
1Co 15:7 then he appeared to James; then to all the apostles;
1Co 15:8 and last of all, as to the child untimely born, he appeared to me also.
Only Christ is the meditator between God and Man I Timothy 2:5
For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, himself man, Christ Jesus,
Only Christ is our sin bearer II Corinthians 5:21
Him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; that we might become the righteousness of God in him.
Redemption has been completely ACCOMPLISHED in our behalf!
REDEMPTION is APPLIED to our hearts only by faith in His finished work.
Eph 2:8 for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
Eph 2:9 not of works, that no man should glory.
Tit 3:5 not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
THIS MAKES THE CENTRAL MESSAGE OF MISSIONS CLEAR !
Rom 10:13 for, Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Rom 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
Rom 10:15 and how shall they preach, except they be sent
Because Christ has paid the penalty for our sin in His own blood, there is nothing that we need to do except PREACH THE WORD AND PRAY! WE don’t have to depend on personality, seminary education, money, good looks, persuasive words, nothing in ourselves. Just the simple preaching of the Word of God!
1Co 1:17 For Christ sent… to preach the gospel: not in wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made void.
1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God.
1Co 1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And the discernment of the discerning will I bring to nought.
1Co 1:20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
1Co 1:21 For seeing that in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom knew not God, it was God's good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save them that believe.
1Co 1:22 Seeing that Jews ask for signs, and Greeks seek after wisdom:
1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumbling block, and unto Gentiles foolishness;
Which program we use is not the issue. We can use the Roman’s Road; Evangicube; 4 Spiritual Laws; gospel blimps; stand on a street corner with a placard; or never leave the preaching of Jn. 3:16, but we must do something!
Someone has said:
“Your either a missionary-or a mission field”
“Millions dying have never heard-because millions here have never cared!”
“God commands: “$end missionaries“-
Take away $-end missionaries”
“The church’s goal has not been reached-until the unreached have been reached!”
“Jehovah’s witnesses don’t believe in hell-and neither do most Christians!”
"Christians don't tell lies they just go to church and sing them" - A.W. Tozer
Is it possible we have a problems with missions? Is it possible we do not like how much it costs to send missionaries to live in foreign lands? Is it possible we not want to send our sons and daughters to labor among the lost? Is it possible we not wish to go ourselves and leave the comforts of the our modern world?
Missionaries need not sell themselves. Our goal is not to build big churches, and certainly not to build American churches all over the world. Our goal is not to have fine houses or make ourselves famous. “We preach Christ crucified and risen!” He is the one who has Accomplished our redemption. “We preach the foolishness of the cross.” It is only by the application of the blood to the door posts of our hearts that Redemption is applied to our lives. It is the Incomparable Christ that is at the heart of missions. He is the Head of the body. Missions is about Christ.
Of course you are sending sinful missionaries abroad. Of course they lack wisdom. Of course they are often ‘rude and crude.’ Of course they get sick. But what else does Christ have to work with in this earth other than sinful creatures-vessels of clay-like ourselves- saved by His grace? What you send are ambassadors in whose hearts dwells the Spirit of the living God. Do they fail you? Do they disappoint? Of course they will. Tell me, Who will carry this message of the Incomparable Christ if they do not? Beloved, you send Christ to them when you send missionaries. Never forget that. If you want a better representative-go yourself! Hey, now there's a novel idea.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Announcements for April 20-27
BAPTISM SERVICE: We hope you plan to join us for our baptism service tonight 6pm at Bible Fellowship. Baptism is not "just" a personal privilege, but it is a joy for the entire church to experience a person's baptism. This service, we have the extra joy of joining with four other area churches. If you consider yourself a disciple of Jesus, yet you have not obeyed Him in baptism, we encourage you to contact the office...there's still time to be baptized at this service! (April 20th, 6pm @ 7757 Greenville-Celina Road)
SCORE UPDATE: We praise the Lord for the SCORE team that recently traveled to the Dominican Republic. Though it has been a couple weeks since their return, we wanted to make sure you heard how God used them (and you, through your support) to faithfully proclaim the “glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” We also praise God for the faithful ministry of the Nilsens and Wolfes and are thankful that God has allowed them to see much fruit. Mike and Linda Fourman travel to the Dominican twice a year (at least), so there is always a chance for you to join them. If you’re interested in joining the next Dominican team, please contact Mike or Linda or the office.
BABY DEDICATIONS: If you’ve noticed the large number of babies, but wondered when the dedications happen, we are not storing them all up for Mother’s Day. In the past, we’ve had special services (once or twice a year) where most of the dedications took place. However, with the large number of children the Lord has blessed our church with, they could feel impersonal and cause us to miss the point. We would like to focus on one family per service in a dedication, that way the church is reminded more clearly to pray for the entire family and support the parents as they raise their children. If you are interested in having your baby dedicated, we encourage you to grab an information brochure over at the coffee bar and then contact the office.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals: Ladies, come craft, scrapbook or just fellowship with other ladies. Bring a snack and have some fun, April 25, 6:30 pm.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight!
PRAISES
ELIZABETH PIERCE UPDATE: If you have not heard, Elizabeth Pierce (Daniel/Teressa’s daughter-in-law) is about five months pregnant. When the pregnancy was discovered, she was immediately advised to go off of chemotherapy. At that point, there was an obvious concern that her brain tumor would return. Elizabeth had an appointment this week which discovered there are absolutely no signs of the cancer in her body. Doctors were left to scratch their heads as they have ruled her “cancer free.” No further treatments are necessary after the baby is born and doctors said there is no reason to assume the cancer will ever come back. God has truly shown His grace to this family! There will be more tests this week to determine if the baby’s kidney function is normal (a possible side effect from lingering chemo), but otherwise the baby looks healthy as well! Join us in thanking God for His mercy to the Pierce’s and we’d encourage you to send them a card, letting them know we celebrate with them:
Daniel and Teressa Pierce
P.O. Box 71
Murphy, NC 28906
YOSELIN NILSEN UPDATE: David and Lyndie are not in our midst today because they received a call this week to come pick up their daughter! Please pray for travel mercies as they go to Guatemala and back. Please pray that all paper work would be expedited and that the process would work quickly and smoothly. But also, please take time to thank God for Yoselin and for His sovereignty placing her in the Nilsen family. As a believer, this is also a perfect time to be reminded of the glory of being adopted into the family of God and praise Him for that undeserved gift.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Heidi Dutter Testimony
Heidi shared the following at her baptism Sunday night:
I was born and raised in Georgia and through a rough childhood with an abusive dad and broken home, I came to the decision that God didnt care. I moved to Ohio a couple of years ago and through the help of some of the best friends ever and about a year and a half of searching, I realized God had never left me alone. He had always been there stretching his hands out just waiting for me to cry out to Him. Its hard to believe that Jesus would die on the cross for someone like me, but He did! And the least thing I can do is accept His forgiveness of my sins and live my life for Him. Through faith in my Savior, I hope and pray that I can live my life to show the world the love of Jesus and just how merciful and amazing He is. To show the hopeless there is a way and to show those that feel forsaken they never were and never will be alone.
Laura Everman Testimony
Laura shared the following at her baptism Sunday night:
I am a believer that everything happens for a reason. God has the ultimate plan for each and every one of us. Sometimes we don't understand the plan and we question Him. My struggle started about a year and a half ago when our son was diagnosed with leukemia.
I have been a Christian most of my life and was baptized at a young age, but at this point in my life, I felt like He had let me down. I distanced myself from My Savior. A few of the last words that Dylan asked me were, "Momma, Jesus is Our Savior, right?" With that question he opened my eyes that God had never let go of my hand through all my struggles, but that I had fallen short in my faith in Him. Christ has called me closer to Him through Dylan. Without the strength and love that He has instilled in my heart I would have never made it through. I have been saved by His grace!
I am being re-baptized this evening to celebrate the rededication of my life to Jesus Christ.
God watched His only Son die on the cross for our sins. I can only live my life to try and give back to Him what He has given me! God is my strength!!
Alysha Everman Testimony
Alysha shared the following at her baptism Sunday night:
I have been a Christian my whole life, but there has been a point in my life where I thought I couldn't take any more and that was just this past year or so. I got so down sometimes that I just didn't want to take the time to realize how much in my life I was missing out on and who I really needed to turn to. That all began to change when Pastor Dan came to visit at the hospital during chemo treatments with my little brother Dylan. We did a lot of talking and I realized that I needed to talk to the One who mattered most, Our Savior, Jesus Christ. I have fallen short of what He expected of me.
He has a plan for all of us and I ask the question all the time, "Why did it have to be my little brother instead of me?" But God is trying to teach me something. Through the good times and the bad I know that I can count on Jesus. I have grown close and gained more faith in Him through my little brother because he was a firm believer.
I am being baptized this evening to celebrate my dedication of my life and my walk of faith with Our Savior. God is our strength and our Light. God watched His one and only Son die on the cross for the payment of our sins. I want to live my life to give back to Him.
Together for the Gospel
I mentioned Sunday morning how blessed Jason, Matt and I were at the Together for the Gospel Conference.The blessing extends, however, because they have now placed the audio on the internet for free. Below are links to the speakers (in case you want to know more about them) and to their messages. I've put them in order of preference (mine) and give a slight explanation of each message:
John MacArthur: The Sinner Neither Able Nor Willing: The Doctrine of Absolute Inability
If our discussion that it is only possible to love God when He intercedes in our life (1 John 4:15-19), this message will help clear a lot up. MacArthur speaks clearly and joyfully about how this doctrine should cause us to enjoy our salvation and God's grace all the more.
CJ Mahaney: Sustaining a Pastor's Soul
Could easily be called Sustaining a Believer's Soul. CJ shows from Philippians how Paul ministered with joy, gratefulness and compassion.
John Piper: How the Supremacy of Christ Creates Radical Christian Sacrifice
The answer is not a program, a discipline, a new paradigm or new thought. The answer is a Person.
[I hope they load the panel discussions at some point. Piper participated in a panel discussion after the message which wonderfully covered a Biblical understanding of suffering...very good.]
Thabiti Anyabwile: Bearing the Image: Identity, the Work of Christ, and the Church
Thabiti proposes that the distinction of biological race categories is unbiblical, and then lays out how different ethnicities can mutually bring glory to God. A challenging message for all, even in our fairly homogeneous community.
RC Sproul: The Curse Motif of the Atonement
We usually think curses are reserved for superstitious religions or magic and wizards. But Sproul reminds us that the Scripture clearly teaches Christ became a curse for us. To fully understand blessing, we must also understand curse.
Mark Dever: Improving the Gospel: Exercises in Unbiblical Theology
Dever maps out for us errors we can make, when with good intention, we make efforts to "improve" the gospel. For when we adapt it, we lose it.
Ligon Duncan: Sound Doctrine – Essential to Faithful Pastoral Ministry
Duncan reminds us that every person is a theologian--either a good one or bad one. It's important that as we study, we consider what Scripture is teaching us about various doctrines and topics. But being a careful student of Scripture is not a chore, it is a joy.
Al Mohler: Why Do They Hate It So? The Doctrine of Substitution
Just because it is listed last, it should not lead you to think it's not worth the download. On the contrary, it shows you what a strong conference it was! There are some who believe the gospel should be about other things than Christ taking our sins away on the cross. Mohler walks you through many different views and why some people would deny the cross is primarily about our sin being taken away.
If you have an ipod, this kind of audio should be on it. If you don't have an ipod, buy one and then load this audio onto it.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Announcements for April 13-20-08
ELDER COMMISSIONING--It is our joy to recognize Monty Stump as an elder of Greenville Grace! Monty has presented himself for examination by the elders and church body and has shown himself to be above reproach. We're excited this morning to affirm to not only affirm Monty's character but to express he has already been a shepherd to people at Grace and trust he will continue to do so. Scripture tells us we should pray for our elders, and we encourage you to specifically pray and praise God for Monty and his lovely wife Krista. We are delighted to have him "officially" on the team!
SUMMER PLANS?-- Each summer, we provide Sunday evening classes to help equip you in your pursuit of Christ. So, keep your eyes (and Sunday evenings) open for the announcement of this year's "Summer Studies."
Learning to Discern: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that this is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).
Sisters Brunch--FOR LADIES ONLY! Please join us on Saturday, April 19th from 10am - noon for a time of food and fellowship. Bring your favorite breakfast food with 4 servings to share. This will be a casual, informal time to get to know your sisters-in-Christ at Grace Church! If you have any questions, please call Lois Jones @ 548-6965.
Men’s Prayer Breakfast-- April 19th, 7am
BAPTISM SERVICE--We hope you plan to join us for our baptism service next Sunday night. Baptism is not "just" a personal privilege, but it is a joy for the entire church to experience a person's baptism. This service, we have the extra joy of joining with four other area churches. If you consider yourself a disciple of Jesus, yet you have not obeyed Him in baptism, we encourage you to contact the office...there's still time to be baptized at this service! (April 20th, 6pm @ 7757 Greenville-Celina Road)
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals--Ladies, come craft, scrapbook or just fellowship with other ladies. Bring a snack and have some fun, April 25, 6:30 pm.
VBS: Yes it’s that time of year to start thinking about and planning for VBS. The dates for this year’s VBS will be: July 7th-11th. The theme will be “Things Hidden” which is a study on the kingdom parables found in the Gospels. At this time we are beginning to put together a planning team for VBS and would love to have your help. If you’re interested in helping, please see Matt or email him at matt@greenvillegrace.org. We would greatly appreciate your ideas and insight!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
American Idol Adjustment
I know this blog is not intended as a location for my own personal commentary, but I wondered how many noticed:
I was shocked to hear "American Idol" was going to end their "Idol gives back" episode with Shout to the Lord.
They sang all the lyrics and changed no words...except the second word:
My Shepherd, My Savior
Lord there is none like You
The original lyrics are:
My JESUS, My Savior
Lord there is none like You
Question becomes:
1. Why would they do that?
2. What can WE learn from that?
Monday, April 7, 2008
Announcements for April 6-13
JOY FELLOWSHIP: Friday, April 11 @ 6:30 pm, Oakley House dining room, 1275 Northview Dr. Bring a dessert, drinks will be provided.
Junior Jam: Parents, please have your children here in the church parking lot by 8am on Saturday and you can pick them up at 5:30pm.
Youth Bowling Night: Come join the fun on Sunday, April 13th from 6-8pm. Cost is $5
Sisters Brunch--FOR LADIES ONLY! Please join us on Saturday, April 19th from 10am - noon for a time of food and fellowship. Bring your favorite breakfast food with 4 servings to share. This will be a casual, informal time to get to know your sisters-in-Christ at Grace Church! If you have any questions, please call Lois Jones @ 548-6965.
Baptism Service--Please join us at Bible Fellowship Church, April 20th from 6:00-7:30 pm. See insert for more details.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
April 25, 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
FINANCIAL REPORT
Average Weekly Giving thru 3/30: $6566
2008 Average Weekly Need: $6147
Junior Jam: Parents, please have your children here in the church parking lot by 8am on Saturday and you can pick them up at 5:30pm.
Youth Bowling Night: Come join the fun on Sunday, April 13th from 6-8pm. Cost is $5
Sisters Brunch--FOR LADIES ONLY! Please join us on Saturday, April 19th from 10am - noon for a time of food and fellowship. Bring your favorite breakfast food with 4 servings to share. This will be a casual, informal time to get to know your sisters-in-Christ at Grace Church! If you have any questions, please call Lois Jones @ 548-6965.
Baptism Service--Please join us at Bible Fellowship Church, April 20th from 6:00-7:30 pm. See insert for more details.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
April 25, 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
FINANCIAL REPORT
Average Weekly Giving thru 3/30: $6566
2008 Average Weekly Need: $6147
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Sunday, Sunday, Sunday...
Because I'm a firm believer in people being familiar with the text being preached, I want you to know what text we'll be in this Sunday so you can be reading and preparing with me. This Sunday we'll be looking at Psalm 1 and discussing "The Blessed Life". Please, take time to look at and study this Psalm in preparation for our time together Sunday morning. Looking forward to our time of worship together.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Announcements for March 30-April 6
Women’s Brunch--FOR LADIES ONLY! Please join us on Saturday, April 19th from 10am - noon for a time of food and fellowship. This will be a casual, informal time that we as ladies can get to know one another.
Attention 3rd-6th graders: Come join the fun at “Junior Jam” being held at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12 from 9-4 pm. See insert in bulletin for more details.
Youth Bowling Night: Come join the fun on Sunday, April 13th from 6-8pm. Cost is $5
Baptism--The baptismal service has been rescheduled for April 20th at 6pm. If you are interested in being baptized, please contact the office.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Slideshow Help--Bible Fellowship’s AWANA program has asked for our help. They are in need of someone to make a picture slideshow on a computer so that they can review the entire year. The pictures are all on disc and provided you have a capable computer, it should be a relatively simple process. If you can help, please contact the office.
Attention 3rd-6th graders: Come join the fun at “Junior Jam” being held at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12 from 9-4 pm. See insert in bulletin for more details.
Youth Bowling Night: Come join the fun on Sunday, April 13th from 6-8pm. Cost is $5
Baptism--The baptismal service has been rescheduled for April 20th at 6pm. If you are interested in being baptized, please contact the office.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Slideshow Help--Bible Fellowship’s AWANA program has asked for our help. They are in need of someone to make a picture slideshow on a computer so that they can review the entire year. The pictures are all on disc and provided you have a capable computer, it should be a relatively simple process. If you can help, please contact the office.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Announcements for March 23-30-08
Welcome Back to our most recent mission team (Mike & Linda Fourman, Dale & Lois Jones, Sheri Fleming and Noah Sherry) to the Dominican Republic. You can see photos of the trip on the blog (ggbcnews.blogspot.com) and the team will be giving an update soon.
Slideshow Help--Bible Fellowship’s AWANA program has asked for our help. They are in need of someone to make a picture slideshow on a computer so that they can review the entire year. The pictures are all on disc and provided you have a capable computer, it should be a relatively simple process. If you can help, please contact the office.
Attention 3rd-6th graders: Come join the fun at “Junior Jam” being held at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12 from 9-4 pm. See insert in bulletin for more details.
Baptism--due to the weather the baptismal service will be rescheduled. If you are interested in being baptized, please contact the office.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.
Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Slideshow Help--Bible Fellowship’s AWANA program has asked for our help. They are in need of someone to make a picture slideshow on a computer so that they can review the entire year. The pictures are all on disc and provided you have a capable computer, it should be a relatively simple process. If you can help, please contact the office.
Attention 3rd-6th graders: Come join the fun at “Junior Jam” being held at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12 from 9-4 pm. See insert in bulletin for more details.
Baptism--due to the weather the baptismal service will be rescheduled. If you are interested in being baptized, please contact the office.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.
Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Monday, March 24, 2008
Sin and the Resurrection
If you're interested, here's the article about the meaning of the Resurrection if sin is no longer preached. I referred to this article during the sermon.
(HT:JT)
(HT:JT)
Sunday, March 23, 2008
The Priest with Dirty Clothes
This Sunday, after the children did a wonderful job (at Shelly Warner's direction), I read from The Priest with Dirty Clothes by RC Sproul.
If you missed the story in Sunday School, it uses an illustration to teach the "great exchange" (that Christ took our sins upon HImself and gives us His righteousness) in a way children can understand.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Monty's March Madness
If you're interested in filling out a "bracket," Monty has set one up at espn.com.
simply follow this link
Group: GGBC Hoops
Password: Propitiation
(You'll have to also sign in with a user name and password...but it's free.)
Announcements for March 16-23
Communion--We will be celebrating our salvation (past, present and future!) in Jesus Christ during our Communion Service, “Good Friday” evening at 7pm. Please plan to join us.
Baptism--due to the weather the baptismal service will be rescheduled. If you are interested in being baptized, please contact the office.
Attention grades 3-6: We will be attending “Junior Jam” at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12. Cost per child $10. See Diana Manges or Jeni Berger for more information. Sign up deadline is March 30.
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.
Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Learning to Discern: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that this is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).
Elder Candidate: The elders would like to submit Monty Stump to the body as an elder candidate. Monty has completed the required “Elder Leadership Study” and has spent several meetings with the elders. Several months ago, Monty informed the elder team that he believed he was being called to serve the church through elder leadership. He has submitted to a doctrinal examination and has submitted references for his character. Therefore, we asking the Body to join us in the examination process. Please:
Read and be familiar with the qualifications for elder leadership (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).
If you have concerns about Monty’s Biblical qualification, or if you would like to confirm that you see Monty’s calling to elder leadership, please contact one of the current elders. (Dan Berger, Jack Sloat, Brian Reifsnider, Bill Sowers, Danny Wright)
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Ministry Opportunity
Mike Holer, AWANA Captain at Bible Fellowship Church stopped by the office today. In past years, they have presented a video that recaps their AWANA year. The person who used to put this video together is no longer available, and Mike neither understands how to do it, nor has the equipment to allow him to make the video.They are simply looking for someone who would be willing to make a standard pictures slide show set to music, that they can play at the awards ceremony (April 27) and at a service in the church (March 30). They aren't looking for "anything fancy" and they have all the pictures stored on disc, so it should be a fairly easy project.
Would anyone in our church be interested in helping them out? Again, this is the church that ministers to most of our own children who enjoy AWANA, so you'll see a lot of our kids in the pictures.)
If you're interested, contact the office: 547.0065
Monday, March 10, 2008
Announcements for March 9-16-08
Communion--We will be celebrating our salvation (past, present and future!) in Jesus Christ during our Communion Service, “Good Friday” evening at 7pm. If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, please make effort to attend this important service with us and use this service as a reminder to confess your sins to the Lord and come before Him with a pure heart. If you do not know Christ as your Savior, you are welcome to join us for the evening, but we ask you simply observe, rather than participate.
Baptism--We have a wonderful opportunity to join with other churches in the community for a corporate baptism service (see insert). If you desire to confess and proclaim Jesus Christ as your Savior, baptism is one form which He has commanded. If you have professed Christ as your Savior but have not obeyed Him in baptism, we urge you to strongly consider why not? If you are interested in being baptized, or would like to talk with someone further about why you should consider baptism, please call the office (547-0065) to arrange an appointment.
March Schedule--to help you keep track of LIFE Group Studies and know what to look forward
March 16--Guest Speaker, Pastor Doug Strader
March 23---Resurrection Sunday (special “Children’s Service” for Sunday School)
March 30--1 John 4:11-14
Women’s Ministry
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.
Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Young Mothers Group: (Mothers of children 5 and under).
Wednesday, March 12th @ 9:30 am
“Godly Parenting in a Godless Society”
Panel Discussion
Elder Candidate: The elders would like to submit Monty Stump to the body as an elder candidate. Monty has completed the required “Elder Leadership Study” and has spent several meetings with the elders. Several months ago, Monty informed the elder team that he believed he was being called to serve the church through elder leadership. He has submitted to a doctrinal examination and has submitted references for his character. Therefore, we asking the Body to join us in the examination process. Please:
- 1. Read and be familiar with the qualifications for elder leadership (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).
- 2. If you don’t know Monty, take opportunity to introduce yourself. Join us next week for Sunday School so that you can hear him share his heart from the Word.
- 3. If you have concerns about Monty’s Biblical qualification, or if you would like to confirm that you see Monty’s calling to elder leadership, please contact one of the current elders.
(Dan Berger, Jack Sloat, Brian Reifsnider, Bill Sowers, Danny Wright)
Learning to Discern: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that this is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).
Attention grades 3-6: We will be attending “Junior Jam” at Cedarville University on Saturday, April 12. Cost per child $10. See Diana Manges or Jeni Berger for more information. Sign up deadline is March 30.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Sunday Morning Services
Due to weather, our first service tomorrow will be cancelled. The Sunday School hour and Second service will still be held at their normal times (10:00 and 11:00 respectively). If you have any questions, please call pastoral staff at their respective phone numbers found here .
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Announcements for March 2-9-08
Communion--We will be celebrating our salvation (past, present and future!) in Jesus Christ during our Communion Service, “Good Friday” evening at 7pm. If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, please make effort to attend this important service with us and use this service as a reminder to confess your sins to the Lord and come before Him with a pure heart. If you do not know Christ as your Savior, you are welcome to join us for the evening, but we ask you simply observe, rather than participate.
Baptism--We have a wonderful opportunity to join with other churches in the community for a corporate baptism service (see insert). If you desire to confess and proclaim Jesus Christ as your Savior, baptism is one form which He has commanded. If you have professed Christ as your Savior but have not obeyed Him in baptism, we urge you to strongly consider why not? If you are interested in being baptized, or would like to talk with someone further about why you should consider baptism, please call the office (547-0065) to arrange an appointment.
March Schedule--to help you keep track of LIFE Group Studies and know what to look forward to:
Today--1 John 4:4-6
March 9--1 John 4:7-10
March 16--Guest Speaker, Pastor Doug Strader
March 23---Resurrection Sunday (special “Children’s Service for Sunday School)
March 30--1 John 4:11-14
Daniel and Teressa Pierce--Be in prayer for the Pierces this month as Daniel preaches at Appalachian Baptist Church. This month will give the church a chance to see their hearts as well as allow Daniel and Teressa to gauge if the church would be a good fit. Also, please continue to pray that God give them wisdom as they assess how much they can take on while they try to support Dan, Elizabeth and Will. (You can continue to keep posted on Elizabeth’s status by checking elizabethpierce.blogspot.com).
Learning to Discern: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that this is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).
Baptism--We have a wonderful opportunity to join with other churches in the community for a corporate baptism service (see insert). If you desire to confess and proclaim Jesus Christ as your Savior, baptism is one form which He has commanded. If you have professed Christ as your Savior but have not obeyed Him in baptism, we urge you to strongly consider why not? If you are interested in being baptized, or would like to talk with someone further about why you should consider baptism, please call the office (547-0065) to arrange an appointment.
March Schedule--to help you keep track of LIFE Group Studies and know what to look forward to:
Today--1 John 4:4-6
March 9--1 John 4:7-10
March 16--Guest Speaker, Pastor Doug Strader
March 23---Resurrection Sunday (special “Children’s Service for Sunday School)
March 30--1 John 4:11-14
Daniel and Teressa Pierce--Be in prayer for the Pierces this month as Daniel preaches at Appalachian Baptist Church. This month will give the church a chance to see their hearts as well as allow Daniel and Teressa to gauge if the church would be a good fit. Also, please continue to pray that God give them wisdom as they assess how much they can take on while they try to support Dan, Elizabeth and Will. (You can continue to keep posted on Elizabeth’s status by checking elizabethpierce.blogspot.com).
Learning to Discern: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that this is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
