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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.
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Today's guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude ANNOUNCEMENTS Choir CALL TO WORSHIP from Psalm 31 In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; deliver me. Let me never be put to shame. Turn Your ear to me and come quickly to my rescue. Be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. For the sake of Your Name lead and guide me. Free me from the trap that is set for me. Into Your hands I commit my spirit. I will be glad and rejoice in Your love. Let Your face shine on Your faithful servant; Save me in Your unfailing love. How great is Your goodness, O Loving God; Which You have stored up for those who fear You.
INVOCATION
* HYMN “Crown Him With Many Crowns” # 268 * PRAYER OF CONFESSION unision Most Merciful God, here I am again, I have sinned. I have failed You. I have put myself before others. I have put myself before You. I have ignored loving My neighbor as myself—I have only loved myself. Forgive me. Wash me white as snow from my sins. Help me in the times I do not believe. Help me be a new creation in you. I long to love myself less and You more. I always love You that You hear me. In Your precious Name I pray. * Time of silent prayer *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. And also, with you. * passing of the pece Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading Matthew 25: 1-13 II Corinthians 4 5-14 The Word of the Lord Thanks be to God! Sermon: “We’re On A Mission from God” *HYMN “Rejoice, the Lord is King!” # 363 *Apostles Creed Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory *Doxology *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the People The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN “Lead On, O King Eternal” # 269 *Benediction Choir Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Cindy Ward
ANNOUNCEMENTS: 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. Keith McGill has moved back to Southmont. Prayers for his comfort. Women on Wednesday meeting the 24th 10:30. We are on a mission this week!! Remember if you have any joys or concerns, please let Diana know by Saturday. I have moved by deadline since I do not print it out for the bulletin. It is read with the announcements at the beginning of the service. Thank You for all your help on the messages.
Our guest speaker today is Rev. Renny Domske.
Our guest speaker this morning is Rev. Renny Domske.
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CALL TO WORSHIP: from Psalm 16 Keep me safe, O God, for in You I take refuge. I will praise the Lord, who counsels me, even at night. I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord: apart from You I have no good thing.” The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. I will not even take up their names on my lips. Lord, You have assigned me my portion and my cup; You have made my lot secure. I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices. You have made known to me the path of life. INVOCATION: Dr. Domske
* Hymn “Rock of Ages #438
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (UNISON) Lord of life, we are small. Yet we act as if we are in control. We don’t like it when things don’t go our way. We blame others And we blame You. Forgive our foolish pride and arrogance. May we let Your love wash us clean and show us a new way to live, reconciled to others and to You---everyday and in every way. Help us to work to be more like Jesus each day. We are confident that You love us even more than we love ourselves. *Assurance of Pardon *Time of silent prayer *Response – Gloria Patri (Page 581) *Passing the peace L: The peace pf the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. P: And also, with you. Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Luke 15: 1 – 7 II Corinthians 2: 12 - 17 Luke 15:1-7
Sermon: “The Power Ball Or Jesus”
*Hymn “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” #187 *Apostles Creed (copy next to prayer list) Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Bob Senay *Doxology (page 606) *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the People THE Lord’s Prayer *HYMN “Softly and Tenderly” #418 *Benediction *Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Ruby Hathaway, Bill Reese Jr., Merranda Young
ANNIVERSARIES: Gary & Kathy Gibson SYMPATHY The Family of Andrew “Tim” Marlburger (Debbie Durila’s Grandson) The Family of Shirley Thomas (Jean Kuhn’s Daughter in law’s Mother) The Family of Bob Kelso (Cheryl Bell’s Dad’s brother) The Family of Mary Carl (Norma Jean Kelso’s Sister-in-Law) ANNOUNCEMENTS: Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Mark 6: 37. Please let Betty Fisher know if you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. North Buffalo Church will hold a joint Thanksgiving Eve Worship service on Wednesday, November 23, at 7 PM. Rev. Mason will lead the service for our church and Upper Buffalo Church. Our church will also hold a Hanging of the Greens gathering from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, November 26. Everyone is invited to come and decorate the sanctuary as the Advent season begins. Saying from Keith McGill’s List; He spent 20 years traveling with the Gas company. When he saw a church sign that had a saying on it, he would write it down. He has collected 8 pages of sayings. 1. Instead of putting others in their place – put yourself in their place. 2. If you want to feel rich, count all the things you have that money can’t buy.
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Nancy Hepinger, Betsy Martin, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Bill Poland, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Betty Fisher, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Ron and Jean Westfall, Evelyn Wood, Brandon Bell, Ricci Amos, Milton Rice, Larry Fox, Nancy Diaz, Gianna Perry, Marlene McFeely, Susie Smith, Tiffany Cipoletti, Cris Miller, Diane Bednarski, Robert Paxton, John & Donna West, Jim McCoy, Bill Berdine, Aleta Whirlow, Cheryl Bell, Frank Baker, Diane Anderson, Colleen Kuhn, Jim Durila, James O’Hara, Barb and John O’Hara , Debbie Durila
Today’s guest speaker is CRE Jack Snodgrass.
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS CHORAL INTROIT: “Somebody’s knockin’” CALL TO WORSHIP: Responsive Reading Psalm 14 The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any, who understand, who seek God. They have all turned aside, they have together become corrupt: There is none who does good. No, not one. INVOCATION HYMN: “The Churches One Foundation” 547
Today’s guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske.
Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service. Matthew 4:1-11
BIRTHDAYS Mason Miklic, Steve Jackson, Meghan Dyson, Dennis Marton, Doug King, Jim Westfall, Cody Clifford, Gary Donaldson
ANNIVERSARIES Ed & Dorothy Caffrey JOYS AND CONCERNS - SYMPATHY Family of Emma Jean Loughry Family of Tom Teagarden Family of Dayle Esther McCoy Kelley Continued prayers for Susan Schively, Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, June and Keith McGill, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Nellie and Frank Baker, Tom Westfall, Mary Ann Durila, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Diane Bednarski, Matt Petrola, Laura Davis, Nancy Hepinger, Betsy Martin, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Robin Durila, Bill Poland, Amy Ward, Don Matthews, the Warlow Family, Pat Haggerty, Norma Kelso, Jean Westfall, and Nancy Youmans. ANNOUNCEMENTS: The Women’s Missionary Group will meet this Tuesday, March 8th at 9:30 AM in the social hall downstairs. Please come join us as we gather in fellowship. Remember the Trustees Work Day this coming Saturday March 12th from 9:00 - 12:00. If you have an hour or two to spare they will have a job for you. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Remember our Food Collection. - And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Mark 6: 37. Please let Betty Fisher know if you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time.
Today’s guest speaker is Rev. Dave Mason.
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS CHORAL INTROIT “Gather Us In” CALL TO WORSHIP Leader: Just a taste of something wonderful, People: Only a glimpse of something magnificent, Leader: Just a glimmer of something holy in something so ordinary. People: Yet, enough to know we are in the presence of God, Leader: Enough to cause us to stop and stare in awe, People: Enough to stir our hearts in wonder, Leader: Enough to set our feet to dancing People: And to prompt our voices to protest and praise. Good morning! We're glad you're joining us today. We are meeting in person again, and we would love for you to join us when you're comfortable. We meet in the Sunday School room at 10:00 am. Each Sunday, we share our joys and concerns together. Take some time to consider your past week, and what joys and concerns you have. If there are any you would like to share, you can create a comment on the lesson. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started: O God of truth, prepare our minds To hear and heed your holy word; Fill every heart that longs for you With your mysterious presence, Lord. Almighty Father, with your Son And blessed Spirit, hear our prayer: Teach us to love eternal truth And seek its freedom everywhere. Amen Today’s guest speaker is Rev. Craig Kephart. All joys and concerns that we know, as well as our continuing prayer list is within the Joys and Concerns. Announcements can be found at the bottom of this service BIRTHDAYS Lois Miller, Ed Horne, Michael Neal, Kathy Gibson ANNIVERSARIES Dave and Ina Henderson JOYS AND CONCERNS: Jim Kuhn was taken to the Washington Hospital from the South Hills Rehabilitation Center Monday night with pneumonia. Please keep Jim and Jean in your prayers. Marlene McFeely fell and broke her neck taken to Allegheny General Hospital Monday night. She came home on Wednesday, has to wear a brace for 6 weeks then go to doctor. Has a visiting nurse and therapist coming to her home. Continued prayers for Susan Schively, Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Lisa Phillips, Dixie Avoila, Chuck Dicks, Randy Moore, Karen Eisiminger, Ed Horne, June and Keith McGill, Glenn Miles, Roger Riggs, Doug Ward, Deron Wood, Marge McWreath, Tim Knabenshue, Bill Stewart, Adam Moore, Frank Huffman, Nellie and Frank Baker, Michael Durila, Jr., Michael Durila Sr., Justin Hagon, Marlene Huffman, Betty Matthews, Cory Patrick, Tom Westfall, Mary Ann Durila and Donald Potts. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
We welcome all who have come to join us in the worship of the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please come again. If you are visiting with us today, please let us know that we might welcome you into our church family.
REMEMBER OUR FOOD COLLECTION: And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Mark 6:37. June’s collection is cereal bars and pop tarts, snack crackers, microwave mac and cheese and juice boxes. Please remember our food pantry is available to anyone in need. Replenish with your hands and listen for the need with your ears. Contact Becky Phillips with any need in the community or to donate. THANK YOU to all that helped out for the Trustee work day yesterday!
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Announcements can be found at the bottom of this service.
Hymn: My Faith Looks Up to Thee
Call to Worship Now is the moment of grace. This is the hour of blessing Today is the day of salvation. Here is the path to a new life. For this is the day that God is making. Let us rejoice and celebrate the love of our God. |
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