Good Morning, Bethesda!
The music and singing yesterday morning was simply inspiring and Christ exalting! Thank you to our musicians and to everyone who sang from their hearts!
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Ladies Fellowship. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Bible Study (Brief Books) and Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7pm.
3. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m. including the Lord’s Supper.
5. Bowling and Late Lunch Fellowship, Sunday after morning worship.
6. NO Discipleship Training
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.”
Ephesians 5:1
Ladies Fellowship!
Ladies, an evening of fellowship will begin Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the church’s fellowship hall. All ladies are welcome to attend and join in the fun!
Statement of Faith
Bethesda’s statement of faith is “The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message” and may be read at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp. Here is the 3rd part of the article on God.
3. God the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts of sin, of righteousness and of judgment. He calls men to the Saviour, and effects regeneration. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the assurance of God to bring the believer into the fulness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service.
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.”
Luke 6:40
Sermon Extras
Jesus’ remark concerning John expressed in verse 22 was misunderstood by many to mean John would not die until the Lord returned. John set the record straight in verse 23, indicating that was not what the Lord was saying. And, of course, John ultimately did die prior to Christ’s return. Yet there is a comment on these verses by Arthur W. Pink which speaks truth:
“The ministry of John actually goes on to the end, for in the Revelation he treats at length of those things which are to usher in the Lord’s return to the earth, aye, and beyond to the new heaven and the new earth!”
Outreach Effort
The Outreach Committee is asking church families to donate energy or granola bars for an outreach effort. We are going to add Scripture verses to these bars and then make them available to church members to hand out to homeless individuals or anyone who has a need for some food and the Gospel.
We’ll start our collection this Sunday. So if you would like to provide some energy or granola bars for this simple outreach effort, please bring them to church this Sunday.
Pastor’s Postscripts
This Sunday marks a minor milestone relative to my ministry at Bethesda. If the Lord wills, we complete our exposition of John’s Gospel which we began on April 11, 2010. After 3 years and 128 messages, we will put John down (for now) despite there being so much more in the Gospel to discuss.
Since coming to Bethesda, we have moved through John, Ruth, and Colossians together. Combined with my previous pastorate, God has given me the privilege of preaching through a total of 11 books now (1/6th of the Bible). As a math geek, I calculated that, at that pace, I would have to live to the age of 377 to complete an exposition of all 66 books! Holy Methuselah!
I sought the Lord’s direction on where in the Word we should now turn. Repeatedly my mind turned to the local church. God’s Word has much to say on the church and I believe one great way to do that is to examine a specific New Testament church. So, beginning in June, we move from the work of the Lord while on this earth to the work of the Lord through His church. And we will do this by looking at the church of the Thessalonians.
Unless the Lord intervenes, my first message in June will be from the book of Acts in order to provide the background for the following weeks. Then, on June 9, we open the Word to the book of 1 Thessalonians and see what God had to say to that local church and how His Word applies to us at Bethesda Baptist today.
I began working on these messages a few weeks ago but I covet your prayers as we begin this new series. May the Lord bless our journey together with the Thessalonians as He brings to a close our study of the Gospel of John!
Bethesda Baptist Church Logo
Monday, May 20, 2013
Monday, May 13, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - May 13, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
What a beautiful day the Lord gave us yesterday not only with the weather but also with the spirit of our service! Those who were absent missed a blessing from the Brandels when Rachelle and Julie presented special music via their flutes! May the Lord continue to bless our church as we share the Gospel with those we meet.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, recovering from low blood pressue in the hospital; need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Bible Study (Brief Books) and Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7pm.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
4. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5:00 p.m.
Ladies Fellowship!
All ladies are invited to a special ladies fellowship at the church on Tuesday, May 21. Activities will begin at 6:30 p.m. are you are invited.
Statement of Faith
Bethesda’s statement of faith is “The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message” and may be read at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp. Here is the 2nd part of the article on God.
2. God the Son
Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself the demands and necessities of human nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, partaking of the nature of God and of man, and in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord.
Mothers!
The following are the comments on mothers from Martin Luther (1483-1546) which the pastor shared with those at worship yesterday.
Our natural reason looks at marriage and turns up its nose and says, "Alas! Must I rock the baby? Wash its diapers? Make its bed? Smell its stench? Stay at nights with it? Take care of it when it cries? Heal its rashes and sores? And on top of that care for my spouse, provide labor at my trade, take care of this and take care of that? Do this and do that? And endure this and endure that? Why should I make such a prisoner of myself?"
What then does Christian faith say to this? It opens its eyes, looks upon all these insignificant, distasteful and despised duties in the spirit, and is aware that they are all adorned with divine approval as with the costliest gold and jewels.
It says, "O God, I confess I am not worthy to rock that little babe or wash its diapers, to be entrusted with the care of a child … How is it that I without any merit have come to this distinction of being certain that I am serving thy creature and thy most precious will? Oh, how godly will I do so. Though the duty should be even more insignificant and despised, neither frost nor heat, neither drudgery nor labor will distress me for I am certain that it is thus pleasing in thy sight."
Sermon Extras
The message yesterday hinged so much on the original Greek words I thought it may be of value to share the ESV text and note the various words I referenced in yesterday’s message. Here is John 21:15-17:
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agapao) me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know (oida) that I love (phileo) you.” He said to him, “Feed (bosko) my lambs. (arnion)” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agapao) me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know (oida) that I love (phileo) you.” He said to him, “Tend (poimaino) my sheep.(probaton)” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love (phileo) me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love (phileo) me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know (oida) everything; you know (ginosko) that I love (phileo) you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed (bosko) my sheep. probaton)
agapao – sacrificial love; cross-like love
phileo – friendship love
oida – perceived, intellectual knowledge
ginosko – knowledge gained via experience
bosko – feed
poimaino – shepherd (care, counsel, guide)
arnion – lamb (infant sheep)
probaton – sheep (mature sheep)
What a beautiful day the Lord gave us yesterday not only with the weather but also with the spirit of our service! Those who were absent missed a blessing from the Brandels when Rachelle and Julie presented special music via their flutes! May the Lord continue to bless our church as we share the Gospel with those we meet.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, recovering from low blood pressue in the hospital; need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Bible Study (Brief Books) and Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7pm.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
4. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5:00 p.m.
Ladies Fellowship!
All ladies are invited to a special ladies fellowship at the church on Tuesday, May 21. Activities will begin at 6:30 p.m. are you are invited.
Statement of Faith
Bethesda’s statement of faith is “The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message” and may be read at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp. Here is the 2nd part of the article on God.
2. God the Son
Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself the demands and necessities of human nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, partaking of the nature of God and of man, and in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord.
Mothers!
The following are the comments on mothers from Martin Luther (1483-1546) which the pastor shared with those at worship yesterday.
Our natural reason looks at marriage and turns up its nose and says, "Alas! Must I rock the baby? Wash its diapers? Make its bed? Smell its stench? Stay at nights with it? Take care of it when it cries? Heal its rashes and sores? And on top of that care for my spouse, provide labor at my trade, take care of this and take care of that? Do this and do that? And endure this and endure that? Why should I make such a prisoner of myself?"
What then does Christian faith say to this? It opens its eyes, looks upon all these insignificant, distasteful and despised duties in the spirit, and is aware that they are all adorned with divine approval as with the costliest gold and jewels.
It says, "O God, I confess I am not worthy to rock that little babe or wash its diapers, to be entrusted with the care of a child … How is it that I without any merit have come to this distinction of being certain that I am serving thy creature and thy most precious will? Oh, how godly will I do so. Though the duty should be even more insignificant and despised, neither frost nor heat, neither drudgery nor labor will distress me for I am certain that it is thus pleasing in thy sight."
Sermon Extras
The message yesterday hinged so much on the original Greek words I thought it may be of value to share the ESV text and note the various words I referenced in yesterday’s message. Here is John 21:15-17:
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agapao) me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know (oida) that I love (phileo) you.” He said to him, “Feed (bosko) my lambs. (arnion)” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agapao) me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know (oida) that I love (phileo) you.” He said to him, “Tend (poimaino) my sheep.(probaton)” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love (phileo) me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love (phileo) me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know (oida) everything; you know (ginosko) that I love (phileo) you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed (bosko) my sheep. probaton)
agapao – sacrificial love; cross-like love
phileo – friendship love
oida – perceived, intellectual knowledge
ginosko – knowledge gained via experience
bosko – feed
poimaino – shepherd (care, counsel, guide)
arnion – lamb (infant sheep)
probaton – sheep (mature sheep)
Monday, May 6, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - May 6, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
Our Lord is gracious! Two new visitors were with us yesterday morning. While they will not likely return for some time (they live in Canada!), it is always a blessing when the Lord brings visitors to our church.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. BUSINESS MEETING, Wednesday, 7pm.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. NO Discipleship Training
“When a believer truly discerns the Lord’s direction for their life, they quickly step that way.”
Wednesday Evenings
This Wednesday evening is our monthly business meeting at 7 p.m. Please make every effort to attend as we discuss matters facing our church.
Next Wednesday, the 15th, we will resume our study of “Brief Books” as we dive into the depths of the book of Obadiah!
Statement of Faith
Bethesda’s statement of faith is “The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message” and may be read at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp. Here is the 1st part of the article on God.
II. God
There is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and personal Being, the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe. God is infinite in holiness and all other perfections. To him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. The eternal God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.
1. God the Father
God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all powerful, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in his attitude toward all men.
Sermon Extras
Here is an interesting note concerning our text from yesterday. Using the English Standard Version, the noun “fish” appears 7 times in these verses. However, John (and Jesus!) use 3 different Greek words translated fish.
In verse 5 the word refers to a “relish eaten with bread” (a relish often made of fish). The King James Version translates this word as “meat”. This is the only time in the entire New Testament this specific Greek word is used.
In verses 6, 8, and 11, the original word is “ichthus”, which is the usual word for fish. Ichthyology, the study of fishes, comes from this word.
Finally, verses 9, 10, and 13 translate a 3rd Greek noun, usually referring to cooked food (including fish) or “preserved fish”.
Ladies Fellowship!
Ladies, are you missing the weekly book study? Would you simply like to get together with your fellow sisters from the church? Here is an opportunity for you!
ALL ladies are invited to a special ladies fellowship at the church on Tuesday, May 21. Activities will begin at 6:30 p.m. are you are invited. Prior attendance at the ladies book study is NOT required.
Please come out and enjoy the evening.
“I believe the proclamation of the gospel in Word and deed is the work of missions. Prayer is the power that wields the weapon of the Word, and the Word is the weapon by which the nations will be brought to faith and obedience.”
John Piper
Pastor’s Postscripts
I was truly blessed Sunday by the congregational singing. The songs and the way everyone sang were very uplifting to my soul! I also appreciate those who prayed that I would be able to speak given the way my voice opened the message. The cough remains despite two weeks of antibiotics. But the Lord was gracious and enabled me to complete the message without further problems with my throat and voice.
Some advanced warning: June is a “5 Sunday” month. That means June 30th will mark our first “5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship” for 2013 (the Lord used snowy weather to cancel our first scheduled fellowship back in March). Therefore, any time you have questions you would like the pastor to answer, you may write them out and place them in the container by the front door. Your name is optional.
If the Lord wills, we will finish John’s Gospel with three final messages. See you Sunday with your Bible in hand! May the Lord bless you this week.
Our Lord is gracious! Two new visitors were with us yesterday morning. While they will not likely return for some time (they live in Canada!), it is always a blessing when the Lord brings visitors to our church.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. BUSINESS MEETING, Wednesday, 7pm.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. NO Discipleship Training
“When a believer truly discerns the Lord’s direction for their life, they quickly step that way.”
Wednesday Evenings
This Wednesday evening is our monthly business meeting at 7 p.m. Please make every effort to attend as we discuss matters facing our church.
Next Wednesday, the 15th, we will resume our study of “Brief Books” as we dive into the depths of the book of Obadiah!
Statement of Faith
Bethesda’s statement of faith is “The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message” and may be read at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp. Here is the 1st part of the article on God.
II. God
There is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and personal Being, the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe. God is infinite in holiness and all other perfections. To him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. The eternal God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.
1. God the Father
God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all powerful, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in his attitude toward all men.
Sermon Extras
Here is an interesting note concerning our text from yesterday. Using the English Standard Version, the noun “fish” appears 7 times in these verses. However, John (and Jesus!) use 3 different Greek words translated fish.
In verse 5 the word refers to a “relish eaten with bread” (a relish often made of fish). The King James Version translates this word as “meat”. This is the only time in the entire New Testament this specific Greek word is used.
In verses 6, 8, and 11, the original word is “ichthus”, which is the usual word for fish. Ichthyology, the study of fishes, comes from this word.
Finally, verses 9, 10, and 13 translate a 3rd Greek noun, usually referring to cooked food (including fish) or “preserved fish”.
Ladies Fellowship!
Ladies, are you missing the weekly book study? Would you simply like to get together with your fellow sisters from the church? Here is an opportunity for you!
ALL ladies are invited to a special ladies fellowship at the church on Tuesday, May 21. Activities will begin at 6:30 p.m. are you are invited. Prior attendance at the ladies book study is NOT required.
Please come out and enjoy the evening.
“I believe the proclamation of the gospel in Word and deed is the work of missions. Prayer is the power that wields the weapon of the Word, and the Word is the weapon by which the nations will be brought to faith and obedience.”
John Piper
Pastor’s Postscripts
I was truly blessed Sunday by the congregational singing. The songs and the way everyone sang were very uplifting to my soul! I also appreciate those who prayed that I would be able to speak given the way my voice opened the message. The cough remains despite two weeks of antibiotics. But the Lord was gracious and enabled me to complete the message without further problems with my throat and voice.
Some advanced warning: June is a “5 Sunday” month. That means June 30th will mark our first “5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship” for 2013 (the Lord used snowy weather to cancel our first scheduled fellowship back in March). Therefore, any time you have questions you would like the pastor to answer, you may write them out and place them in the container by the front door. Your name is optional.
If the Lord wills, we will finish John’s Gospel with three final messages. See you Sunday with your Bible in hand! May the Lord bless you this week.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - April 29, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
A BIG thank you to everyone who helped out with our work day on Saturday. Even the rain couldn’t prevent us from completing several work items including changing light bulbs, repairing doors, cleaning various rooms, replacing filters, and painting the adult Sunday school room. Thanks also for those who prepared our breakfast buffet dishes! We not only made some repairs and had a good breakfast but we also enjoyed some fun fellowship time.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
“These are not all of Jesus’ signs. But they are enough. For countless multitudes reading them have believed, and have found life through His name.”
Herschel Hobbs
Upcoming Activities
1. Bible Study (Brief Books) and Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
6. Business Meeting, Wednesday, May 8, 7 p.m.
Sermon Extras
1. In John 20:30-31, John teaches the sufficiency of Scripture. He notes that his work does not contain everything Jesus did (or said) but what he did write was “written so that you may believe...” John firmly believed the words of his Gospel (and, in fact, of the Scripture in general) were sufficient for salvation. As Paul writes in Romans 10:17, so faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
2. In each of these two verses, John uses the word “written”. Many translations render this word as “are written”. The New American Standard version, though, provides us with a little more information by translating the word in verse 31 “have been written”. The word construction in both verses inform us that John wanted to communicate the “signs” were written down in the past but the effect of this recording would go on forever. In other words, God’s Word never changes, endures forever, and is always effective in any and every generation.
Wednesday Evenings
Beginning this Wednesday, we start a new Bible study series before our weekly prayer meetings. Titled “Brief Books”, we will examine the five shortest books in the entire Bible. We’re going to look at them in chronological order by moving through the text of one book verse by verse. When we complete that book we’ll move to the next one.
Although these five books contain only one chapter each, those chapters are the very Word of God like the rest of Scripture. Their brevity makes them no less important or inspired than the longer books of the Bible.
Come join us Wednesday for a brief 15 minute study (we begin with Obadiah) and then join us for our weekly prayer meeting. Bible study begins at 7 p.m.
Statement of Faith
Our church constitution indicates we use the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message (BF&M) as our statement of faith. We understand there are some who are unfamiliar with that document, so we’ll share portions of it over the coming weeks. The entire statement may be found at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp.
Since the pastor’s message yesterday discussed the Word of God, here is the first article of the 1963 on the topic of the Scriptures.
I. The Scriptures
The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired and is the record of God's revelation of Himself to man. It is a perfect treasure of divine instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter. It reveals the principles by which God judges us; and therefore is, and will remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried. The criterion by which the Bible is to be interpreted is Jesus Christ.
Pastor’s Postscripts
In case you are unable to join us for prayer meetings on Wednesdays, we do have some copies of our prayer list (albeit a week out of date) on the table by the front door. You are always welcome to take one.
If the Lord wills, our exposition of the Gospel of John will conclude on Sunday, May 26. Although we will have taken over 3 years to make the journey through this wonderful book, there is so much more in it which we either had to pass over or only brief touch upon. Just because we have listened to John’s words for 3 years, do not let that keep you from returning to, reading, and studying this terrific book!
May Christ richly bless you this week!
Pastor Bruce
A BIG thank you to everyone who helped out with our work day on Saturday. Even the rain couldn’t prevent us from completing several work items including changing light bulbs, repairing doors, cleaning various rooms, replacing filters, and painting the adult Sunday school room. Thanks also for those who prepared our breakfast buffet dishes! We not only made some repairs and had a good breakfast but we also enjoyed some fun fellowship time.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brazel family and especially baby Willow
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
“These are not all of Jesus’ signs. But they are enough. For countless multitudes reading them have believed, and have found life through His name.”
Herschel Hobbs
Upcoming Activities
1. Bible Study (Brief Books) and Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
6. Business Meeting, Wednesday, May 8, 7 p.m.
Sermon Extras
1. In John 20:30-31, John teaches the sufficiency of Scripture. He notes that his work does not contain everything Jesus did (or said) but what he did write was “written so that you may believe...” John firmly believed the words of his Gospel (and, in fact, of the Scripture in general) were sufficient for salvation. As Paul writes in Romans 10:17, so faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
2. In each of these two verses, John uses the word “written”. Many translations render this word as “are written”. The New American Standard version, though, provides us with a little more information by translating the word in verse 31 “have been written”. The word construction in both verses inform us that John wanted to communicate the “signs” were written down in the past but the effect of this recording would go on forever. In other words, God’s Word never changes, endures forever, and is always effective in any and every generation.
Wednesday Evenings
Beginning this Wednesday, we start a new Bible study series before our weekly prayer meetings. Titled “Brief Books”, we will examine the five shortest books in the entire Bible. We’re going to look at them in chronological order by moving through the text of one book verse by verse. When we complete that book we’ll move to the next one.
Although these five books contain only one chapter each, those chapters are the very Word of God like the rest of Scripture. Their brevity makes them no less important or inspired than the longer books of the Bible.
Come join us Wednesday for a brief 15 minute study (we begin with Obadiah) and then join us for our weekly prayer meeting. Bible study begins at 7 p.m.
Statement of Faith
Our church constitution indicates we use the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message (BF&M) as our statement of faith. We understand there are some who are unfamiliar with that document, so we’ll share portions of it over the coming weeks. The entire statement may be found at http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfmcomparison.asp.
Since the pastor’s message yesterday discussed the Word of God, here is the first article of the 1963 on the topic of the Scriptures.
I. The Scriptures
The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired and is the record of God's revelation of Himself to man. It is a perfect treasure of divine instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter. It reveals the principles by which God judges us; and therefore is, and will remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried. The criterion by which the Bible is to be interpreted is Jesus Christ.
Pastor’s Postscripts
In case you are unable to join us for prayer meetings on Wednesdays, we do have some copies of our prayer list (albeit a week out of date) on the table by the front door. You are always welcome to take one.
If the Lord wills, our exposition of the Gospel of John will conclude on Sunday, May 26. Although we will have taken over 3 years to make the journey through this wonderful book, there is so much more in it which we either had to pass over or only brief touch upon. Just because we have listened to John’s words for 3 years, do not let that keep you from returning to, reading, and studying this terrific book!
May Christ richly bless you this week!
Pastor Bruce
Monday, April 22, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - April 22, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
Yesterday was a glorious one! The weather was outstanding as was the spirit during our worship. God, once again, sent visitors our way for which we are thankful. Pete and Brenda, who have been out ill for some time, were able to return for the first part of the service before Brenda’s back began troubling her again. We are glad they could join us for part of the service.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brida Lovett and a job
* Brazel family
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Breakfast Fellowship and Church Work Day, Saturday, 8 a.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service including the Lord’s Supper, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Breakfast Fellowship and Church Work Day!
Join us for a breakfast fellowship and church work day on Saturday, April 27 at 8:00 a.m.! Bethesda members will work collectively to spring clean (and repair) our church following a hearty breakfast potluck. Members should bring a breakfast dish, drink and side to share.
Please contact Karla Repperger if you have any questions.
Sermon Extras
1. At the very end of verse 25, Thomas says without the proofs he demands, “I will never believe.” While the use of double negatives in English is a “no no”, it was commonly used in the language of the New Testament to convey a very strong negative. Thomas uses the double negative here. Literally, you could translate the clause “Not not I will believe”. He is making it clear that, in his mind, believing in the risen Lord is an impossibility apart from his demands being met. What audacity!
2. In verse 27, Jesus tells Thomas “do not disbelieve but believe”. The construction in the original indicates Thomas was already becoming unbelieving and he needed to stop that trend. Instead (the “but” is very strong) he should be believing. “stop becoming unbelieving instead (start becoming) believing.”
Martin Luther on the Story of Doubting Thomas
It is now the power of the resurrection of Christ that St. Thomas, who was so deep and obdurate in unbelief, even more than any other disciple, was so suddenly changed, becomes an entirely different man, who publicly and freely confesses that he not only believes that Christ is risen but is also enlightened by the power of Christ's resurrection so that he firmly believes and confesses that he, his Lord, is true God and man, through whom, as he is now resurrected from unbelief, the fountain of all sin; so he will also arise from the dead at the judgment day and live forever with him in indescribable glory and blessedness. And not only he, but all who believe thus, as Christ himself further says to him: "Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."
From a sermon preached by Luther the Sunday after Easter, 1540.
_____________________________________
“Give up everything you have, carry a cross, and hate your family. This sounds a lot different than ‘Admit, believe, confess, and pray a prayer after me.’”
David Platt on Jesus’ call to those wanting to follow him.
_____________________________________
Wednesday Evenings
We meet together on Wednesday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. for a brief Bible study (about 15 minutes) followed by prayer time. Beginning on May 1, we are going to begin an exposition (verse by verse study) of those books in the Bible having only one chapter (there are 5 of them; do you know which ones they are?). We’ll begin one of those books on May 1 and spend 15 minutes a week going through the book until we have completed it. Then we will move on to the next one. Those of us who read the Bible through every year only spend one day reading through each of these books during our journey. This study will give you an opportunity to go more in-depth on each book.
Please join us for our study and for our prayer time on Wednesday evenings!
Pastor’s Postscripts
Spring is upon us! I hope to see many of you on Saturday at our breakfast fellowship and church work day!
Our weekly prayer meeting is Wednesday at 7pm. As noted above, starting next Wednesday, May 1, we will begin a new Bible study. This is a great opportunity to (1) study God’s Word, (2) spend time with fellow believers in prayer, and (3) engage in some fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ! Why not join us?
May the blessings of the Lord be upon you this week. See you Sunday if not sooner.
Yesterday was a glorious one! The weather was outstanding as was the spirit during our worship. God, once again, sent visitors our way for which we are thankful. Pete and Brenda, who have been out ill for some time, were able to return for the first part of the service before Brenda’s back began troubling her again. We are glad they could join us for part of the service.
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health, especially Brenda’s back
* Brenda’s father who is very ill
* Brida Lovett and a job
* Brazel family
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw and his arthritis
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Breakfast Fellowship and Church Work Day, Saturday, 8 a.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service including the Lord’s Supper, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Breakfast Fellowship and Church Work Day!
Join us for a breakfast fellowship and church work day on Saturday, April 27 at 8:00 a.m.! Bethesda members will work collectively to spring clean (and repair) our church following a hearty breakfast potluck. Members should bring a breakfast dish, drink and side to share.
Please contact Karla Repperger if you have any questions.
Sermon Extras
1. At the very end of verse 25, Thomas says without the proofs he demands, “I will never believe.” While the use of double negatives in English is a “no no”, it was commonly used in the language of the New Testament to convey a very strong negative. Thomas uses the double negative here. Literally, you could translate the clause “Not not I will believe”. He is making it clear that, in his mind, believing in the risen Lord is an impossibility apart from his demands being met. What audacity!
2. In verse 27, Jesus tells Thomas “do not disbelieve but believe”. The construction in the original indicates Thomas was already becoming unbelieving and he needed to stop that trend. Instead (the “but” is very strong) he should be believing. “stop becoming unbelieving instead (start becoming) believing.”
Martin Luther on the Story of Doubting Thomas
It is now the power of the resurrection of Christ that St. Thomas, who was so deep and obdurate in unbelief, even more than any other disciple, was so suddenly changed, becomes an entirely different man, who publicly and freely confesses that he not only believes that Christ is risen but is also enlightened by the power of Christ's resurrection so that he firmly believes and confesses that he, his Lord, is true God and man, through whom, as he is now resurrected from unbelief, the fountain of all sin; so he will also arise from the dead at the judgment day and live forever with him in indescribable glory and blessedness. And not only he, but all who believe thus, as Christ himself further says to him: "Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."
From a sermon preached by Luther the Sunday after Easter, 1540.
_____________________________________
“Give up everything you have, carry a cross, and hate your family. This sounds a lot different than ‘Admit, believe, confess, and pray a prayer after me.’”
David Platt on Jesus’ call to those wanting to follow him.
_____________________________________
Wednesday Evenings
We meet together on Wednesday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. for a brief Bible study (about 15 minutes) followed by prayer time. Beginning on May 1, we are going to begin an exposition (verse by verse study) of those books in the Bible having only one chapter (there are 5 of them; do you know which ones they are?). We’ll begin one of those books on May 1 and spend 15 minutes a week going through the book until we have completed it. Then we will move on to the next one. Those of us who read the Bible through every year only spend one day reading through each of these books during our journey. This study will give you an opportunity to go more in-depth on each book.
Please join us for our study and for our prayer time on Wednesday evenings!
Pastor’s Postscripts
Spring is upon us! I hope to see many of you on Saturday at our breakfast fellowship and church work day!
Our weekly prayer meeting is Wednesday at 7pm. As noted above, starting next Wednesday, May 1, we will begin a new Bible study. This is a great opportunity to (1) study God’s Word, (2) spend time with fellow believers in prayer, and (3) engage in some fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ! Why not join us?
May the blessings of the Lord be upon you this week. See you Sunday if not sooner.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - April 15, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
It was good seeing those of you who were with us in worship yesterday morning. Every time God’s children gather together gives us a small glimpse of what awaits us in glory!
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health
* Brida Lovett and a job
* Brazel family
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw having medical tests this week
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4.Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Ladies’ Book Study
The final session of the current Ladies’ Bible Study will be held this Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Come and enjoy the fellowship.
Sermon Extras
1. In verse 20 of yesterday’s text, Christ “showed” his hands and side to the disciples. The word translated “showed” means “to make known, to point out, to explain, to prove”. Christ’s actions, therefore, was an explanation and proof of His identity and His resurrection.
2. Verse 23 is one of those “difficult” texts in Scripture. A simple reading of the verse may lead someone to conclude that men have been given the power to forgive sin. But, as I noted yesterday, such power is in the hands of God alone. John Calvin, the Genevan reformer, explained the verse this way:
“When Christ enjoins the apostles to forgive sins, He does not convey to them what is peculiar to Himself. It belongs to Him to forgive sins—He only enjoins them, in His name, to proclaim the forgiveness of sins.”
FELLOWSHIP!
Saturday, April 27 at 8 a.m.
This will be a fellowship and work day at our church. First, we will have a “potluck” breakfast at the church. Then, we’ll pitch in and help with various work tasks needed on our facilities. Finally, if we have enough people still on site around lunch time we’ll end the day with a pizza lunch!
Pastor’s Postscripts
I want to share with you this week from my heart out of concern for the spiritual welfare of some of those in our congregation. It is possible some of you who are reading this article are members of our church yet have never come to Christ. If so may God use His Word to convict you of your sins. Some of you who are reading this article are members of our church who are in the process of “falling away.” May God convict you of your need to return to Him.
I begin with the Word:
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Bethesda “meets together” at various times during the week, primarily on Sunday mornings, evenings, and Wednesday evenings. The only scheduled worship service of our church is Sunday mornings at 10:30. Without question, it is the largest gathering of our membership at any time of the week (as well it should be!). It is quite difficult for us to “stir one another to love and good works” as well as “encourage one another” when some of you do not attend Sunday morning.
Some of our members have not attended any morning worship services in the 4 years I have been at our church. I truly hope you are attending somewhere else. If not then I fear for your salvation because the true child of God would be prompted by the Holy Spirit within him to meet together with brothers and sisters for worship. If you are attending elsewhere then God bless you. Let us know and we will simply remove you from our membership roll.
Some of our members attend once or twice a year (e.g., Christmas and/or Easter). Where are you the remainder of the year? Do you make excuses for not attending worship regularly (e.g., “It’s too early in the morning.”)? Then I am also concerned for your soul. A true saint of God longs to worship the Lord Jesus with others as often as possible, certainly more than twice a year.
Some of our members attended worship fairly consistently but now have dropped “out of sight”. What has happened? Have you begun to make excuses for your absences? Have you found yourself uninterested in the public worship of God? Heed the warning of the Hebrews text and do NOT neglect public worship? Cry out to God for a renewed desire to worship with your brothers and sisters in Christ. And if there is no such desire then search your soul and make certain you are a true child of God.
I realize this article is not going to be well received by some in our congregation who read it. Nevertheless, it needs to be said. If you are a member and not faithfully attending on Sunday mornings you need to ask yourself “why”. If you are attending a church somewhere else then why do you remain a member of our church? Join the church you are attending and serve God through it. Otherwise, you need to be in public worship with your fellow members on Sunday morning. PERIOD.
The true believer in Christ does not simply relax on his profession of faith made years ago. The true believer in Christ perseveres in the faith, taking up his cross daily, and following His Lord. Such obedience is evidence of a saving faith. Such obedience includes joining together in public worship. If that evidence is lacking in your life then, membership or not, be very concern for the eternal destiny of your soul!
This word comes from a pastor’s love and concern for his flock. I ask you receive it as such.
May Christ bless His Word and His people!
It was good seeing those of you who were with us in worship yesterday morning. Every time God’s children gather together gives us a small glimpse of what awaits us in glory!
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health
* Brida Lovett and a job
* Brazel family
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Aaron Wordlaw having medical tests this week
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
Upcoming Activities
1. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4.Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Ladies’ Book Study
The final session of the current Ladies’ Bible Study will be held this Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Come and enjoy the fellowship.
Sermon Extras
1. In verse 20 of yesterday’s text, Christ “showed” his hands and side to the disciples. The word translated “showed” means “to make known, to point out, to explain, to prove”. Christ’s actions, therefore, was an explanation and proof of His identity and His resurrection.
2. Verse 23 is one of those “difficult” texts in Scripture. A simple reading of the verse may lead someone to conclude that men have been given the power to forgive sin. But, as I noted yesterday, such power is in the hands of God alone. John Calvin, the Genevan reformer, explained the verse this way:
“When Christ enjoins the apostles to forgive sins, He does not convey to them what is peculiar to Himself. It belongs to Him to forgive sins—He only enjoins them, in His name, to proclaim the forgiveness of sins.”
FELLOWSHIP!
Saturday, April 27 at 8 a.m.
This will be a fellowship and work day at our church. First, we will have a “potluck” breakfast at the church. Then, we’ll pitch in and help with various work tasks needed on our facilities. Finally, if we have enough people still on site around lunch time we’ll end the day with a pizza lunch!
Pastor’s Postscripts
I want to share with you this week from my heart out of concern for the spiritual welfare of some of those in our congregation. It is possible some of you who are reading this article are members of our church yet have never come to Christ. If so may God use His Word to convict you of your sins. Some of you who are reading this article are members of our church who are in the process of “falling away.” May God convict you of your need to return to Him.
I begin with the Word:
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Bethesda “meets together” at various times during the week, primarily on Sunday mornings, evenings, and Wednesday evenings. The only scheduled worship service of our church is Sunday mornings at 10:30. Without question, it is the largest gathering of our membership at any time of the week (as well it should be!). It is quite difficult for us to “stir one another to love and good works” as well as “encourage one another” when some of you do not attend Sunday morning.
Some of our members have not attended any morning worship services in the 4 years I have been at our church. I truly hope you are attending somewhere else. If not then I fear for your salvation because the true child of God would be prompted by the Holy Spirit within him to meet together with brothers and sisters for worship. If you are attending elsewhere then God bless you. Let us know and we will simply remove you from our membership roll.
Some of our members attend once or twice a year (e.g., Christmas and/or Easter). Where are you the remainder of the year? Do you make excuses for not attending worship regularly (e.g., “It’s too early in the morning.”)? Then I am also concerned for your soul. A true saint of God longs to worship the Lord Jesus with others as often as possible, certainly more than twice a year.
Some of our members attended worship fairly consistently but now have dropped “out of sight”. What has happened? Have you begun to make excuses for your absences? Have you found yourself uninterested in the public worship of God? Heed the warning of the Hebrews text and do NOT neglect public worship? Cry out to God for a renewed desire to worship with your brothers and sisters in Christ. And if there is no such desire then search your soul and make certain you are a true child of God.
I realize this article is not going to be well received by some in our congregation who read it. Nevertheless, it needs to be said. If you are a member and not faithfully attending on Sunday mornings you need to ask yourself “why”. If you are attending a church somewhere else then why do you remain a member of our church? Join the church you are attending and serve God through it. Otherwise, you need to be in public worship with your fellow members on Sunday morning. PERIOD.
The true believer in Christ does not simply relax on his profession of faith made years ago. The true believer in Christ perseveres in the faith, taking up his cross daily, and following His Lord. Such obedience is evidence of a saving faith. Such obedience includes joining together in public worship. If that evidence is lacking in your life then, membership or not, be very concern for the eternal destiny of your soul!
This word comes from a pastor’s love and concern for his flock. I ask you receive it as such.
May Christ bless His Word and His people!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Stirrings at Bethesda - April 8, 2013
Good Morning, Bethesda!
Although our attendance was down considerably from our Easter Sunday service, the spirit of worship was great! The singing was quite spirited for a small gathering of believers. But, of course, as believers we have a lot to sing about!
Urgent Prayer Requests
* Pete & Brenda, their health
* Brida Lovett and a job
* Brazel family
* Marilynn Norvell
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Jimmy’s wife’s family in the loss of her grandfather over the weekend
* Gene & Lois Schulze at home.
* Caroline, Anne Overton’s sister-in-law, and family – terminal brain cancer
* Our church and need for revival
“For many, when spiritual darkness comes, we ‘remove’ Jesus as our Lord. No longer do we open our Bibles. No longer do we attend church. No longer do we pray. “
Annie Armstrong
Thank you to everyone who gave to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for North American missions over the past several weeks. Our emphasis ended yesterday and our collection is complete. While I do not have a final count, I do know that the good folks of Bethesda once again demonstrated their generosity and gave over $2000! The total more than doubles our church’s goal for this year’s offering, a true testimony of the giving spirit of our church. May the Lord bless each of you and use this donation to His glory!
Upcoming Activities
1. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
2. BUSINESS MEETING, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4.Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Ladies’ Book Study
Yes, you are meeting this Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Yes, you are meeting in the church fellowship hall. Yes, you will have a wonderful time studying together and spending time in fellowship. Yes, Pam will do her usual great job in leading you. Yes, you will come and enjoy the time!
Business Meeting
Wednesday evening, 7pm!
We will be voting on an addition to our church by-laws.
Sermon Extras
1. As I noted yesterday, the King James renders John 20:17 as “Touch me not”. The better translation is “Stop clinging to me”. The Greek construction has a present tense imperative verb (“cling, take hold”) with a specific negative adverb (“not”). In such a construction, it is a command to stop doing something already being done. Mary has already grabbed the Lord and is being told by Him to stop.
2. Did you notice that the angels in verse 13 ask the identical question Jesus asks of Mary in verse 15? In Christ’s perfect kingdom there is perfect harmony. The angels always say what their Lord says! Contrast that with some of his saints here on earth!
3. Also notice how Jesus expands Mary’s thinking in v. 15. She has been looking for an “it”, Jesus’ body. But Christ asks her, “WHOM (not what) are you seeking?”
“Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.”
William Cowper
FELLOWSHIP!
Saturday, April 27 at 8 a.m.
Join us for a “potluck” breakfast at the church. Then, after we enjoy our meal together, help us work around the church, cleaning up certain areas and performing minor repair work as part of our first 2013 work day.
If we have enough people still on site around lunch time we’ll end the day with a pizza lunch!
“... sometimes work is better than worship—or rather, work is worship in its best form.”
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Pastor’s Postscripts
Ladies, have a great time on Tuesday! Church family, I encourage you to be part of our business meeting on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Finally, I hope to see everyone this coming Sunday as we sing praises to our great God and hear from His Word.
May He give each of you a blessed week!
Pastor Bruce
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