Gathering Around the Word
Announcements: CALL TO WORSHIP: The Lord calls His people to lay down their way of life for His. To take up our cross, and to devote our lives to following Jesus. What can we expect in our service to the Lord? Things will not always be smooth and easy, our old ways of life will fade away, we will be like sheep sent out among wolves. What will we gain in our service to the Lord? Just as the Lord has joined the Father’s glory, so shall we. To know God is our great reward both in life and death. We pick up our cross and will be raised in His glory. Come and worship our great Lord, King, and Savior! INVOCATION
*HYMN: “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise” # 12
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: Father, You have created and blessed us with so many beautiful and wonderful things in this life. Yet in our sin, we have made the focus of our life on these things that bring us pleasure. We are drawn to the beauty of the world and forget how much more wonderful You, the maker of everything are. We become so obsessed with our momentary happiness that we resist Your call to deny ourselves and follow You. Forgive us, God for putting what we want before what You command. For ignoring the needs of our neighbors. For withholding the forgiveness, You so freely extend to us. As we confess these sins and the sinfulness that we don’t even see, we trust in Your loving kindness to justify and restore us. Amen *Time of Silent Prayer: *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri # 581 Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer of illumination Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 31: 31-34 Lois Miller SERMON TEXT: Matthew 16: 21-28 *HYMN “Jesus Call Us” # 720 *Apostles Creed (next to Prayer List) Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayer of the people The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN: “Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart” # 804 Benediction Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Bob Fisher
ANNIVERSARIES: Butch & Cindy Ward Bryan & Cheryl Bell Doug & Marilyn Ward SYMPATHIES: none this time. Remember our food collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Session will meet on Monday the 18th at 7 pm. Men’s Bible Study starting March 21 at 6p.m. till 7:30 p.m. at Pastor Clayton’s home. Today’s Lenten Service is at W. Alexander Presbyterian church. The service is at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Clayton LaPosta This prayer listing is for those who have unspoken concerns and prayer on Sundays. You will not be forgotten to be prayed for by our pastor.
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sandy Stone, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Ricci Amos, Fred Wilkinson, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Judy Donaldson, Donna West, Helen Provenzano, Doug Ward, Marlene McFeely, Marley Smith, Suzy Smith, Carol Pierce, Chuck Harton, Johnny Yurko, Mike Durila, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabenshue, Beckett, Grandson of Scott Shetter, Stella Crothers, Lori Patterson, Ron Poznick, Jim King, Ron Westfall, Mary Stoey, Norma Jean Kelso
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, you may use the prayer below to get started:
Gracious God, we see suffering all around us and we try to find a reason for it. We think of those who are suffering in their relationships, in their health, in their finances and in grief over the loss of a loved one. We don’t know why we must go through such times, but we know that, as Christians, we don’t go through them alone.
Even when we can’t find a reason for our suffering, we know that you can use such moments to shape us into better people and more faithful followers of Christ. We know that our response to suffering can serve as a witness to those outside the faith, and so our suffering is never without purpose. Help us to rely on you in all the times of our lives, and help us to draw closer to you in the challenging times. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
This week's lesson is on 1 Peter 3:8-17.
Lesson context
The letter of 1 Peter is one of two existing letters by that apostle. The recipients of both letters were the various churches found in an area of northeastern Asia Minor, located in modern-day Turkey. The occasion for Peter’s letter was primarily a response to the suffering of believers, particularly since more was yet to come. (See 1 Peter 1:6-7.) Peter could address whatever suffering his audience had or would experience because he had been “a witness of Christ’s sufferings” (5:1). Peter himself had also suffered for that name. (Acts 12)
Right behavior (verses 8-12)
Verse 8 as a whole is only nine words in the original Greek language. Five of the nine words are adjectives that describe behavior sitting for believers facing a hostile world. The first adjective is translated as “like-minded and describes the desired unity of believers. This is a gift from God that is stressed throughout the New Testament, which speaks of its importance. The second adjective is translated “sympathy.” The third is philadelphoi, translated as love. This terms is used for the kind of love shared among family members and is the word from which we get “Philadelphia,” the city of brotherly love. The fourth and fifth adjectives are translated as compassion and humility. They provide the basis by which believers can live with love and compassion toward each other. Compassion, which is heartfelt concern for one another, is a crucial part of the life of a Christian. Its presence reflects a life transformed by God’s love. Humility is probably an umbrella term that includes ideas such as deference, kindness and thinking of others more highly than ourselves. (See Philippians 2.) Verse 9 continues Peter’s thought about how a believer’s life should be different. Now, though, he moves from attitudes to actions, from adjectives to verbs. We are not to respond to evil or insults with more evil and insults. Jesus himself faced mocking and insults before and during his crucifixion, but he did not respond in kind. Rather we are to respond with grace and blessing. Verse 10 begins with a quotation from Psalm 34:12-16, which is believed to have been written when David went through a time of suffering and trials. It supports Peter’s point that there is a right kind of behavior for believers who go through difficult times. In this case, it refers to the way one speaks during suffering. It is not to speak evil or to respond with deceit. Instead, believers are to pursue peace in our relationships with others.
Which route?
He was a new Bible college professor. He knew his teaching skills needed a lot of improvement, and negative student feedback wounded him deeply. In one feedback evaluation, a student said he should find a different line of work. An especially painful incident occurred one day during the college’s chapel service. A student had organized a skit in which the actors mocked a clueless professor who was obviously modeled after this man. After chapel, students watched as he went up to the stage to speak to the student who had instigated the mockery. Smiling, he shook the student’s hand firmly and pulled him into a side-hug. Looking at the student in the eyes, the professor said, “You’re a brilliant actor, Jim. God’s given you a great talent. I’m glad you’re my student.” Jim managed to stammer a “thanks” and went back to moving stage props. Although the skit had been mortifying, the man was confident that he had chosen the route of Jesus — the route of love, compassion and blessing. had you been that professor, would you have done the same?
Confident believers (verses 13-17)
Peter’s rhetorical question here — “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” — does not imply that Christians won’t suffer if they focus on doing good. They may. However, commentators point out that our ultimate concern must be to please God, and God looks favorably on lives focused on doing right. Even when such Christians do suffer, however, God will bless them. Peter is not suggesting that we take a kind of masochistic pleasure from such pain. However, those who hear God’s word and obey God’s commands are blessed even in the midst suffering. Therefore, such Christians should not fear those who threaten them. Instead, Christians should replace fear with something positive — reverence for Christ as Lord. We should also be ready to answer why we have hope in Christ. This is not primarily a call to witness to those who are already in Christ but mainly a call to tell those outside the faith about the difference that Christ makes. Our testimony, Peter says, should not be harsh or judgmental of the other person’s perspective. Rather it should be given with kindness and respect. Even if others speak against us for our lives and our testimony, by exercising our faith and speaking with kindness and respect, we can have a clear conscience. The conscience can be skewed and is not always an accurate measure, but if we are properly informed it can be a good guide to proper thought and behavior. When we suffer in such cases, we know that we are suffering for doing good rather than doing evil. This in itself is a powerful witness to those who do not believe.
Faith of the end
According to church history, Polycarp was a disciple of the Apostle John and became a leader in the church in Smyrna. He was put to death at the age of 86 for refusing to pray to the emperor. When given the chance to save his life by recanting his faith, Polycarp said, “Eighty-six years I have served him, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?” Polycarp was burned at the stake in AD 155. Polycarp didn’t do anything to deserve this death. And in facing it, he set apart Christ as his Lord to the very end. He died with a clear conscience.
Conclusion
Few of us will experience the level of suffering endured by the martyrs of Christian history. However, that does not make Peter’s directives any less applicable. Quite the opposite! When faced with suffering, we may search for meaning in that experience. The question asked relentlessly is, “Why?” That question if natural and understandable. But it must also be temporary because ultimately the “Why?” needs to change to “What’s next?” This is a way that our response to suffering can also serve as a way to point people to a life of faith in Jesus. God wants the best for people. When such suffering occurs, believers should remember to be unified in demonstrating trust in God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for being with us in all situations. Help us to be unified with other believers. Show us how we can be attentive to the working of your Spirit. Fill us with peace and humility in all the trials that we might face. We trust that you will work through us to complete your will in the world. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 6:7-15.
Today's guest speaker is TJ Spruill.
Gathering Around the Word
Announcements: CALL TO WORSHIP: Loving God, we come to You in worship and thanksgiving. You are greater than we can understand. Open our eyes that we may see the wonderful truths You have shown to us in Jesus. You are more loving than our hearts can respond to; help us to give ourselves to You in worship so that we learn what You want us to be. You are wiser than we can know; still our minds as we worship You so that we can understand the things You are saying to us. Loving God, in Jesus You chose to come to the world in humility. You chose the path the world saw as foolish. You used what the world considered weak. We worship and adore You. Amen. INVOCATION
*HYMN: “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” # 475
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: Lord, we have sinned, without considering how much You love us. You see our sins more clearly than we can ourselves. Lord, You know when we are indifferent to Your word, the Bible; how often we forget to pray; the times we come unwillingly to worship; and yet we turn to You when we are in trouble., Lord, You know when we are untruthful and when we think evil of others., You see our anger and unfairness to our friends. You know how hard it is for us to forgive. Forgive us and make us clean, so that we can obey Your call to take up Your cross and follow You. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. AMEN. *Time of Silent Prayer: *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri # 581 Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer of illumination Scripture Reading Genesis 9: 8-17 Mary Esselstyn Sermon *HYMN “Fairest Lord Jesus” # 630 *Apostles Creed (next to Prayer List) Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayer of the people The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN: “To God Be the Glory” # 634 Benediction Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Gary Donaldson
ANNIVERSARIES: Ed & Dorothy Caffrey SYMPATHIES: none this time. Remember our food collection. AndJesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Women’s Missionary Group will meet this Tuesday, March 12th at 9:30 in the social hall. Please come join us as we fellowship together. Women on Wednesday (WOW) will meet on the 13th of March at 9:30 am. Session will meet on Monday the 18th at 7 pm. Men’s Bible Study starting March 21 at 6p.m. till 7:30 p.m. at Pastor Clayton’s home. Today’s Lenten Service is at Grove Presbyterian church. The service is at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Cynthia Smith. This prayer listing is for those who have unspoken concerns and prayer on Sundays. You will not be forgotten to be prayed for by our pastor.
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sandy Stone, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Ricci Amos, Fred Wilkinson, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Judy Donaldson, Donna West, Helen Provenzano, Doug Ward, Marlene McFeely, Marley Smith, Suzy Smith, Carol Pierce, Chuck Harton, Frank Baker, Johnny Yurko, Mike Durila, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabenshue, Beckett, Grandson of Scott Shetter, Stella Crothers, Lori Patterson, Ron Poznick, Jim King, Ron Westfall, Mary Stoey, Norma Jean Kelso
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us!
When we meet together, we take some time to share any prayer requests that anyone may have. If you would like to share a request, please add it as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Dear Father, God of love and peace,
Help me to examine myself, to test myself, to see whether I am holding to my faith. Help me to realize that Jesus Christ is in me - unless I should fail the test. Help me not to do anything wrong, to do nothing against the truth. Help me stand for Christ and for what is right and true. Let my life - my attitude and my deeds - show constant improvement. Help me mend my ways, agree with my fellow believers, and live in peace. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ rest upon me. May you, the God of love and peace, be near me. May the fellowship of your Holy Spirit surround me. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
This week's lesson is on 2 Corinthians 13:5-11.
Lesson Context
The book of 2 Corinthians is a letter written from Paul to the church at Corinth, a city about 50 miles west of Athens, Greece. This letter was written in preparation for Paul to make a return visit. Part of the reason for the letter were some remaining problems in Corinth. Some people there doubted that Christ was speaking through Paul. They wanted proof. Was he a true apostle of the Lord Jesus, or was Paul a con artist? They thought that Paul's weak presence and suffering-filled ministry meant that that he was a con artist. Paul's apostolic ministry had ben tested and verified through suffering rather than by avoiding it. The power of God seen in Paul's suffering was also seen in the life of Jesus. It wasn't Paul's credibility that was on the line. Instead, it was the credibility of the naysayers in the church at Corinth that was at issue.
Examination (verses 5-6)
Paul challenges his readers to undergo a season of spiritual self-discernent. It required them to look at their credibility as Christian believers. Usually when we see the word faith, it refers to one's personal belief in Christ, plus trust. In this case, the translation uses the phrase the faith. This refers to the body of doctrine to be believed and practiced. Paul's challenge is not to examine oneself to determine how much faith his readers have in Jesus, but rather to determine whether the readers accept his doctrinal teaching regarding the nature of the Christian faith. Paul's question about failing the test seems intentionally focused on those who were dismissive of Paul and unconvinced of his authority. He seems to assert that the people who doubt ought to test themselves rather than test Paul. He wanted his readers to realize the seriousness of the issue. To fail the self-evaluation would be to reveal a life without Jesus. Paul was confident that his proposed self-examination on the part of the Corinthians would cause them to realize who had the presence of Christ and who did not.
Expectation (verses 7-10)
A significant theme of this letter is a defense of Paul's ministry and apostolic authority. The two main pieces of evidence that validate that ministry and authority were God's power that shone through Paul's weakness and the moral transformation of the members of the church at Corinth. In order for the believers in Corinth to maintain their growth, they needed to not do anything wrong. This was not so for the sake of Paul's reputation, but for the reputation of the Corinthian readers. Paul was certain that the gospel truth would prevail. Paul had neither south wealth nor tried to deceive. He was not a manipulator, but one who lived authentically and without guile. Paul conformed his ministry to the gospel, which included his willingness to suffer and place himself in a position of weakness for the sake of others. He willingly worked with his hands to be self-supporting so that the Corinthians would not be distracted by requests for financial support. Paul's desire for the Corinthians to be fully restored is for there to be church unity resulting from the repentance of rebellious believers. The believers would be fully equipped to live out the gospel in their lives faithfully. Essentially, Paul prayed that the Corinthians would grow up in their faith. Paul wants the Corinthians to listen to this letter's sharp words so that he does not have to exercise his apostolic authority when he visits. The responsibility of those who occupy leadership positions in the church includes giving an account to God for the souls of those they served. Sometimes this responsibility requires reproving and rebuking those who oppose the truth.
Exhortation (verse 11)
Paul ends this passage by reaffirming his relationship with the Corinthian audience. Then, he give five brief and pointed challenges. First, rejoice! Second, strive for full restoration. It echoes Jesus' command to, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect," (Matthew 5:48). Third, encourage one another. This seems to be a condensed version of 2 Corinthians 1:4-6. Fourth, be of one mind. This stresses the importance of church unity. It can speak to doctrinal unity, but also essential is a shared humility. Fifth, live in peace.
Conclusion
It is important to take inventory and examine ourselves. Avoiding evil is not enough in and of itself. Evil must be replaced with doing what is right. An unexamined life is not worth living. Paul calls us to submit to a process of discernment by which we try out hearts.
This necessary self-examination requires a familial bond, a desire for maturity, a striving toward perfection, mutual encouragement, a shared commitment to live out the meaning of the gospel, and peaceful practices. An examined faith can flourish in that kind of church. Without such a community, faith will suffer and perhaps die spiritually. The process begins by asking whether we know ourselves.
Prayer
O God, we ask you for the courage to examine ourselves with unvarnished honesty so that we may discern Christ in us. In the name of your Son, who gives resurrection life, we pray. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on 1 Peter 3:8-17.
Gathering Around the Word Prelude ANNOUNCEMENTS CALL TO WORSHIP: We come before the Lord to worship our greatest treasure. We have known great blessings in our lives, but none compare to knowing You. Out of God’s providence, all our needs are met. We need not worry about tomorrow, our God goes before us. Even in the toughest moments of our lives, we will not fear. .We trust in God. Let us worship today our greatest treasure and portion in This life, the Lord our God. INVOCATION
*HYMN “God of All Ages, Whose Almighty Hand” # 331
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: Gracious God, our sins are too heavy to carry, too real to hide, and too deep to undo. Forgive what our lips tremble to name, what our hearts can no longer bear, and what has become for us a consuming fire of judgement. Set us free from a past that we cannot change; open us to a future in which we can be changed; and grant us grace to grow more and more in Your likeness and image; through Jesus Christ our Lord, the light of the world, we pray. Amen *Time of silent prayer: *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri page 581 *Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer of illumination Scripture Psalm 10 Christine Welling Sermon text: Matthew 6: 19-34 *HYMN “Seek Ye First” # 175 *Apostles Creed Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the people ` The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN “The Church’s One Foundation” # 321 *Benediction * Postlude
BIRTHDAYS:
Marlene McFeely, Norma Kelso, Jim Westfall ANNIVERSARIES: John & Rosemary Cole SYMPATHIES: To the Family of Anthony Georgetti To the Family of Elmo George Remember our food collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Covered Dish today in the Social Hall, please stay and enjoy a meal and fellowship. We are having meatloaf as our main dish. This prayer listing is for those who have unspoken prayers on Sundays. You will not be forgotten to be prayed for!! Please note the insert today. It is for Men’s Bible Study starting March 21 at 6p.m. till 7:30 p.m. at Pastor Clayton’s home. Address is on insert. Today’s Lenten Service is at Claysville Presbyterian church. The service is at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Terry Lucarelli.
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sandy Stone, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Ricci Amos, Fred Wilkinson, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Judy Donaldson, Donna West Helen Provenzano, Doug Ward Marlene McFeely, Marley Smith, Suzy Smith, Carol Pierce, Chuck Harton, Frank Baker Johnny Yurko, Mike Durila, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabenshue Beckett, Grandson of Scott Shetter, Stella Crothers, Lori Patterson, Ron Poznick, Jim King, Mary Stoey, Norma Jean Kelso
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us!
We are returning to Sunday School before the worship service this week.
When we meet in person, we take time to share any joys or concerns from the previous week. If you have any to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Heavenly Father, I know that there are many dangers and difficulties in life that combine to shipwreck my faith in You. I desire to love You more, to know You better, to keep the Lord Jesus as the centre of my life, and to grow in grace. Give me the wisdom to discern what is not from You and ears to hear the promptings of the Holy Spirit. In Your mercy, keep me under the shadow of Your protection. In Jesus' name, AMEN.
Today's lesson is on Jude 17-25.
Lesson Context
Jude, the author of this letter, was the brother of James, one of the elders and leaders of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 1:19; 2:9). Since James was a brother of Jesus, this means Jude was as well. Though both opposed Jesus during his ministry before his death, both became committed believers after the resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:7; Jude 1). What we know as the book of Jude was probably a sermon that circulated among several congregations as an open letter. He addressed a number of congregations at one time, and they were all endangered by ungodly intruders and leaders. Jude clearly stated his main interest. He encouraged believers to "contend for the faith," that had been delivered to them (Jude 3). He identified the troublemakers, warned that their destiny is the same as that of Sodom and Gomorrah and the devil, and promised God would execute judgment against the "ungodly" for their "ungodly acts."
Lesson
The apostles warned about the rise of ungodly people who would disturb the church and seek to gain their own followers. By reminding them of this apostolic warning, Jude highlighted the importance of the apostolic voice in the early church. The apostolic word or teaching both guides and warns the church. The teaching of both the prophets and apostles is the church's foundation, with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. Mockers and scoffers have always been part of the story of the church. Jude's warning is for all believers throughout the life span of the church. This is a constant danger rather than a unique one. What drives these false leaders? They did not believe God's judgment applied to them, or perhaps that there was any coming judgment at all. Rather, they followed their own desires. Jude emphasized that their motivations were ungodly. They were only interested in themselves, whether that greed or ambition was about wealth, power, or other possible lusts. These ungodly people are divisive, worldly, and lack the Spirit of God. In essence, Jude identified this ungodly presence by their works or effect on the congregation. In contrast, believers guild their lives on the faith, pray in the Spirit, and joyfully anticipate the mercy they will receive when Jesus comes again. Jude addressed these believers as dear friends, and their identity was rooted in God's love for them. In the Greek text, the main verb -- and the only command -- is keep yourselves in God's love. This was a call to action. As dangers mounted and seemed to overwhelm, believers need to continually ground themselves in God's love. While Jude stressed that believers are responsible for keeping themselves in the love of God, he also made it clear that it is God who empowers our perseverance in that love. God keeps us, while believers are also accountable for their own faith as well. Ultimately, believers do not save themselves, nor do they generate their own assurance. Rather, God acts to keep us and causes us to stand in God's glorious presence without blemish.
Conclusion
We live in perilous times, much like the church at the time when Jude was written. So we should recognize and identify the dangers. The church is called to exercise healthy discernment and heed the warnings of the apostles. At the same time, the church does not live in fear but in confidence. We root ourselves in God's love for us, and we pour that same love on those who have been damaged by these perilous times. While we practice discernment and contend for the faith, we also show God's mercy to others as we minister to those who doubt, those ensnared in the fire, and those who have soiled their garments. Secured in the love of God by the foundation laid down by apostolic teaching, praying in the Spirit, and looking forward to the mercy of Christ's second coming, we help others and show them the love which God has loved us.
Prayer
God, keep us secure in your love and enable us to show mercy to others in need of your love. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on 2 Corinthians 13:5-11.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude: Carol Smith Announcements: CALL TO WORSHIP: The Lord is good and kind. Even when we turn and run. He welcomes us home. He is a good Father. Slow to anger, refining us in His reproof of our sin, and quick to forgive. Who is like the Lord our God? No one is like Him. All of His ways are good and just even when ours are not. We give our hearts, not just our words and deeds to the Lord today. God is jealous and takes pity on His people. Worship today our Lord, our King, our Father. . INVOCATION
*HYMN: “Why Should I Feel Discouraged? # 661
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: Father, we know that it is easy to say that we trust and follow You when it requires very little of us. If all that faithfulness required was going to church or dropping some money in a collection plate, we could get behind that. But when we learn that You require all of us, all of our heart, our affection, our trust, our time, our works, we draw the line. We choose to give other things that should be given to You and still claim to love You. Forgive us for having misaligned priorities and devotion. Forgive us for withholding parts of ourselves that ought to be given to You. Call us back to You and to greater faithfulness. Amen *Time of Silent Prayer: *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri # 581 Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer of illumination Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1: 4-10 Kirkland Cipoletti Sermon text: Joel 2: 12-21 : *HYMN “Will You Come and Follow Me” # 726 *Apostles Creed (next to Prayer List) Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayer of the people The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN: “There’s a Sweet, Sweet Spirit” # 408 Benediction Postlude Carol Smith
BIRTHDAYS:
Amy Hickman, David Gill, Bryan Welling ANNIVERSARIES: None this week SYMPATHIES: To the Family of Eileen Hatfield Cousin of the Durila’s Remember our food collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Just a reminder that church services will be back to 11:15 starting March 3rd. This prayer listing is for those who have unspoken prayers on Sundays. You will not be forgotten to be prayed for!!
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sandy Stone, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Ricci Amos, Fred Wilkinson, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Judy Donaldson, Donna West, Helen Provenzano, Doug Ward, Marlene McFeely, Marley Smith, Suzy Smith, Carol Pierce, Chuck Harton, Frank Baker, Johnny Yurko, Mike Durila, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabenshue, Beckett, Grandson of Scott Shetter, Kayla Horner, Step Granddaughter of Cheryl Bell, Stella Crothers, Lori Patterson, Ron Poznick, Jim King, Mary Stoey, Unspoken prayers,
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we share joys and concerns together. If you have any prayer requests to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below to get started.
We confess that we don't have all the answers. You alone have the answers and know our futures. In our lives, Lord, show us a peace that passes all understanding when we face uncertainty. Help us to remember that you love us, provide for us, and guide us by Your perfect will. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Habakkuk 2:1-5.
Faced with unjust behavior of Judah's enemies, the prophet Habakkuk questioned the Lord. Habakkuk wondered whether the Lord heard his questions or if the Lord had left the conversation altogether. We know nothing regarding the exact details of the life of Habakkuk. With the events mentioned in this book Habakkuk likely served sometime during the last decade of the seventh century BC; that would be during the reign of evil King Jehoiakim (609-598 BC).
Following the split of Israel into two kingdoms in about 931 BC things went pretty much downhill for both. The kingdoms of Israel (10 tribes to the north) and Judah (2 tribes to the south). The Assyrians conquered and exiled the northern tribes in 722 BC. About a century later the Babylonian Empire became the regional superpower after defeating the Assyrians and Egyptians at the battle of Carchemish in 605 BC. King Josiah of Judah unwisely interfered, contributing to the Babylonian victory; Josiah's action also cost him his life. (2 Chronicles 35: 20-27) Just as Habakkuk 1:6 promised, Babylonian force invaded Judah and overthrew its king. For a few years, Judah's kings served as vassals to the Babylonians. However, this arrangement didn't last. During the final year of the reign of King Zedekiah (587 BC) Jerusalem and the kingdom fell to the Babylonians after about a decade of conflict. This places Habakkuk as a contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah. Both prophets received a warning that the people of Jerusalem would face dire consequences because of sinful behavior. An outline of the book of Habakkuk reveals a conversation between the prophet and the Lord. Two sections of the book consist of the prophet's questions to the Lord. Following each round of inquiry, the Lord responded. In Habakkuk's first section of questioning, he expressed discontent that the Lord had seemingly not heard the prophet's call for correction of sin. In his complaint, the prophet's conclusion for this uncorrected state of affairs was that “the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails”. The Lord answered that he was going to use the Babylonians to punish Judah. This response left Habakkuk even more confused. In his lengthy rejoinder, the prophet asked why the Lord would use a less-righteous nation. Today's text picks up at the very end of Habakkuk's second complaint. In the first verse the prophet shifts from questioning the Lord to waiting for the Lord's response. When people call out to the Lord, the timing of his response is always perfect, but it is not always as fast as we desire. Habakkuk himself has been impatient in this regard. Habakkuk had no idea how long it would take. In this determined concentration, the prophet envisioned himself as a lookout who would stand at his watch as he performed the duty of a person responsible for sounding an early warning of something that was approaching. The Old Testament prophets were spiritual lookouts for the people they served. The prophets were to proclaim the arrival of the Lord's reign (Isaiah 52:8-10) and warn the people of the consequences of their disobedience (example Jeremiah 6:17). In most cases, the people failed to heed the warning of these prophetic watchmen. But if their failure to heed was due to the prophet's failure to warn, then the prophet would be accountable. The Lord replied to Habakkuk's complaints and told him to write it on tablets which would be almost permanent. When prophets wrote messages from the Lord they frequently did so on rolls (scrolls) of papyrus which would be fragile and could be burned. The same could not be said of stone. Habakkuk got his response but had to wait for its fulfillment. God's promise would eventually be fulfilled, but not on a timetable that Habakkuk desired. We frequently become impatient when we have to wait. Rather than wait for God to act, we may take steps to expedite God's promise. Rather than see God as patient we interpret God's silence as his refusal to act or hear. Habakkuk needed to trust that the Lord would respond to wickedness in the Lord's own time and manner. The Lord's message distinguishes two types of people. The first type is the person who is puffed up with self-assured pride and arrogance. Such a perspective was indicative of Judah's enemies during this time. The military strength of the Babylonians was undeniable, leading them to count their power as a god. Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar saw the expanse of the kingdom as the result of his power. Even as the Lord raised the Babylonians to conquer Judah, he acknowledged their pride. Such people will face dramatic consequences. (see Leviticus 26:19: Luke 18:14) The second type - the righteous – lives with an entirely different outlook, one of faithfulness. Their lives are grounded in righteousness. Such a person follows God's standards regarding their relationships with God and others. This person lives with integrity and without blame for wrongdoing. Psalm 15, attributed to King David, depicts the mindset and behavior of a righteous person. This type of person speaks well of others, keeps a trustworthy word and treats others fairly. God expresses great pleasure when his people live justly and righteously. This is because his nature is righteousness: and his rule over creation is one of justice. The Hebrew word translated faithfulness is also translated as “truth” in Jeremiah 5. To be a person of faith goes hand in hand with being a person of truth. Unfaithful people depart from the truth. In the book of Habakkuk, God calls his people to have faith in the truth of his plans, even when those plans seem unbelievable. Although the Babylonians would prosper for a time by placing faith in themselves, the people of Judah were to depend on the Lord. The apostle Paul connected the concepts of truth and faithfulness in applying them to his ministry as an apostle (1 Timothy 2:7; Titus 1:1) we must proclaim truth and live with faithfulness as we follow God and trust him. Elsewhere, Paul quoted Habakkuk 2:4b in explaining the nature of the gospel with regard to righteousness, which is a characteristic of God that is to be ours as well. (Romans 1:16-17) To be righteous is to do what is right in God's eyes but it can't be based on mere good behavior. Instead, a right standing before God is imputed on the basis of faith. Paul quotes Habakkuk in Galatians 3:11-14. In a section of Hebrews that teaches the importance of the perseverance of faith, quotes from a portion of Habakkuk 2:3: ”For, in just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” And, “But my righteous one will live by faith:” We live by faith because we can trust that God will also be faithful to his promise. Babylon's military successes made them want more military conquest. The Bible addresses the dangers of pride and arrogance more than 200 times. Arrogant, prideful people always incur God's disfavor. Such prideful behavior will not go unpunished. God will reverse selfish ambition. In response to the arrogance and destructive behavior of Judah's enemies, the Lord predicts punishment in terms of five sets of “woe”. Although Judah was to suffer for its arrogant disobedience, its prideful and arrogant enemies would also experience a downfall equally devastating, if not more so.
Conclusion – Questioning God
Is it OK to question God's (apparent) actions or inactions? The dependable answer is, “It depends”. We see God tolerating, even welcoming questions in numerous places. (Examples: Judges 20:18; James 1:5; 4:2) One thing God does not tolerate, however, are inquiries that question his justice (see Job 40:8; Ezekiel 18:25-29; Jeremiah 2:29) The prophet Habakkuk came close to doing that. Consider the following thumbnail sketch of the book: Question 1: Why do you, O God, tolerate the sins of your people? Response 1: Don't worry about it – I'm sending the Babylonians to punish them. Question 2 : How is it fair to use the less-righteous to punish the more-righteous? Response 2: Don't worry about it-the Babylonians will get theirs too. God's ending of the discussion: Be quiet! When our suffering does not seem “fair” there are a lot of questions we might naturally ask. God was under no obligation to answer Habakkuk's questions and he is not obligated to answer ours. Habakkuk needed faith to trust the Lord's plans, regardless of whether or not those plans made human sense. God reminded Habakkuk that a life of faithfulness was most important. And the faith we are talking about isn't “blind faith”- a faith where one merely believes. Instead, the faith we are talking about is a faith based on evidence. God has a long track record of faithfulness to his promises. Upon that track record is where our faith is based. Such faith trusts God's control in all circumstances. As a result, we can be secure in him, regardless of whether or not we understand his plans.
Prayer
God, as we face life's hardship and want to question you, help us have the confidence of faith. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Legacy Standard Bible.
Next week, we will begin our spring quarter, with the topic Examining our Faith. We will be switching back to Sunday School before the worship service.
The lesson next week will be on Jude 17-25.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude: Announcements: CALL TO WORSHIP: Create in us a clean heart, O God; Put a new and right spirit within us. Have mercy on us, O God, according to Your steadfast love; According to Your abundant mercy blot out our transgressions. Create in us a clean heart, O God; put a new and right spirit6 within us. Wash us thoroughly from our iniquity, and cleanse us from our sin. Create in us a clean heart, O God; Put a new and right spirit within us. Come, worship today the God and King that alone is able to pardon our sin and give us new life. INVOCATION
*HYMN: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” # 39
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: Father, we know our transgressions, and our sin is ever before us. Against You, You alone, have we sinned, and done what is evil in Your sight. Create in us a clean heart, O God; put a new and right spirit within us. Turn our hearts from loving the things of the world and a love of running from You and call us back, in repentance to love You with all of our heart, soul, and mind. Amen *Time of Silent Prayer: *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri # 581 Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer of illumination Scripture Reading: Genesis 9: 8–17 Debbie Mary Sermon text: Philippians 3: 1-14 : *HYMN “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” # 275 *Apostles Creed (next to Prayer List) Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayer of the people The Lord’s Prayer INVITATION TO THE LORD’S TABLE “Let Us “Break Bread Together # 525 Communion “Alleluia” (1 verse) INVOCATION “A Hymn of Joy we ‘Sing” (see insert) Benediction Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Butch Ward, James O’Hara, Gavin Hathaway
ANNIVERSARIES: None this week SYMPATHIES: To Family of Chase Johnson Co-worker of Susie Cummings Today will be the first Lenten service at Upper Buffalo at 4 pm. Remember our food collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Missionary meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20th at 9:30 a.m. We are hosting the Lenten service on February 25th at 4p.m. There will be refreshments in the social hall after the service. Just a reminder that church services will be back to 11:15 starting March 3rd. This prayer listing is for those who have unspoken prayers on Sundays. You will not be forgotten to be prayed for!!
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, you may use the prayer below to get started:
Lord, we confess that you are with us and that you have the power to help us in every situation. Yet we often get so caught up in the busyness of our daily lives that we fail to pray or we approach you only with shallow and selfish prayers.
Give our relationship with you the depth and consistency of Daniel, who could not stop praying any more than he could stop breathing. Help us to rely on you for every moment of our lives, in good times and in struggles. For we ask it in Christ’s name. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Daniel 6:10-11, 14, 16, 19-23, 26-27. You can also read it with all of the skipped verses here.
Lesson context
Several years have passed since the events of last week’s lesson, when God protected the lives of three faithful Jewish exiles from a fiery furnace. In the meantime, the Persian Empire has arisen and replaced the Babylonians. As our lesson begins, a Persian king named Darius has appointed 120 “satraps,” who were subordinate provincial officials under the authority of three administrators, including Daniel. The king preferred Daniel and planned to give him authority over the entire kingdom, but this led to envy among Daniel’s peers. Therefore, they schemed against him. When they couldn’t find any fault in Daniel’s work on behalf of the king, they developed a trap from which even Darius would not be able to release Daniel. Since Daniel was trustworthy and was not corrupt or negligent, the schemers realized their plan had to pit Daniel’s loyalty to the king against his loyalty to God. Knowing that Daniel prayed to God faithfully each day, they encouraged the king to announce a decree that anyone who prayed to any deity or man except the king for 30 days would be thrown into a den of lions. Darius did so.
Violation and consequence (Verses 10-11, 14, 16)
Despite the decree, Daniel continued to pray as always, and his peers soon reported him to the king. The Law of Moses commanded people to remember God’s commands daily. At the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the Lord commanded the people to pray toward Jerusalem and the temple during times of distress. However, there was no command to kneel and pray three times a day. This was a part of Daniel’s personal spiritual routine, and he would do it regardless of the consequences. As a group, the men went to find Daniel praying and asking God for help. When the king learned about it, he was distressed and made every effort to save him. However, the officials reminded him of his decree and how Daniel had violated it. Darius realized he had been manipulated because of envy and selfishness. The king had been naive and had failed to see that he was being used as a pawn in the plot. Instead of being angered by Daniel’s disobedience, he was displeased with himself. A similar thing happens in the book of Esther, when a Persian king issues a decree that he cannot revoke. Because there is no non-biblical reference to such laws, the exact stipulations are unknown. However, it seems that it was impossible even for the king himself to reverse his decree. As required, the king gave the order for the consequences to be carried out. According to the lesson, an excavated Assyrian relief dating to the seventh century BC depicts Assyrian royals hunting lions for sport. Such lions were kept in dens before being released into an arena for “hunting.” The Assyrians practiced a form of polytheism, believing in many gods, but Darius recognized that Daniel prayed to one God. Although some think believe the king was speaking with skepticism or even sarcasm, It seems most likely that the king sincerely wanted Daniel’s God to rescue him and believed God could do it. His faith contrasts with that of Nebuchadnezzar in the previous lesson. In that story, the king doubted that any god could rescue the three men from the furnace. Only after seeing it for himself did he admit that “no other god can save in this way.”
Release and vindication (Verses 19-23, 26-27)
Although not a part of the printed lesson, the Bible says that the mouth of the den was sealed with a stone, secured by the king’s own signet, and that the king spent the night without eating, without entertainment and without sleep. It is clear that the king is fully invested in Daniel’s plight. Therefore, at first light he rushes to the lions’ den, knowing that the only way Daniel could survive was by God’s intervention. As he approaches the den, Darius calls out, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, who you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?” The words are important. Darius is gaining a deeper understanding that Daniel’s God is a living God who is able to intervene in human situations, unlike the so-called gods of the Assyrians. Even though Daniel came to the perilous situation because of the king’s lack of insight, Daniel did not disrespect or hold a grudge against Darius. “May the king live forever!” he responded. This is the first and only time in the book that a Jewish person greets a king in this way. Daniel testifies that God sent an angel who shut the lions’ mouths and that God did this because God found Daniel innocent. This does not mean that Daniel was perfect but only that he tried to follow God’s laws and to serve the king faithfully. The king’s anxiety turns to joy and gladness over Daniel’s condition. Daniel did not have a wound on him, and it was because he trusted in God. This does not imply that faithfulness obligates God to save believers from death. Some believers have experienced martyrdom, but all who remain faithful are promised eternal rewards. In either case, public displays of faithfulness have a transforming influence on the community. This was true in Daniel’s case. Darius issues a decree that the entire kingdom must fear and reverence the God of Daniel
Conclusion
Public confessions model something meaningful for today’s Christians. It’s easy to think of “confession: as an admission of sin, especially in a lurid, tell-all fashion. But that is not what the word means when describing the texts in Daniel. Here, the confession tells good news. The Lord chose to deliver Daniel, which resulted in the king’s surprising new edict. Daniel’s confession what happened with the lions and the king’s reaction reoriented both the characters in the story and those reading about them to a larger truth. God’s reign is both eternal and full of goodness. God’s loyalty to his people reflects God’s divine character and the large-scale divine plan to redeem humanity. Daniel knew that, and eventually, so did Darius. So do we. The church continues to confess its sins but also God’s redemption. Our life of celebration begins where Darius ended his learning experience. By repeatedly confessing God’s goodness, we bring those outside within hearing distance of the gospel itself. Daniel did so by his faithfulness in this story, and we do so too when we confess the gospel of our salvation.
Prayer
Living God, you care for your people and have promised to be with us no matter what we face. Give us the courage to face adversity and maintain faithfulness to you. Help us behave with mercy to those who have sought to harm us. Show us how to follow you in a manner that brings other people closer to you. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New Revised Standard Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Habakkuk 2:1-5.
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