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Birthdays: Nora Beth Gill, Janet Rhoades, Jean Kuhn
Anniversaries: Dave & Susie Cummings Gary & Diana Donaldson Sympathies: To the family of Norma Kelley Ruschell Nellie Baker’s sister To the Family of Linda Knox Morgan Marilyn Ward’s sister 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. Dart ball is scheduled for Tuesday the 10th here at North Buffalo Church in the social hall. Warm up is at 7pm and the game starts at 7:30. Come join in the fellowship with the Women’s Mission Group This Tuesday, Sept. 10th at 9:30 am in the social hall. I have added to the prayer list a new item. All surgeries have been performed and everything went well. Please continue prayers for a full and speedy recovery for all. You’re invited to join us for Sunday School! We will meet after the worship service in the Sunday School room behind the folding doors. Our fall quarter is all about worship in the Old Testament. Each week, we read a passage from the Bible and learn about the content and background. We discuss how that passage informs our faith and our lives. It is a great time for fellowship and learning more about God! If you have any questions, please feel free to talk to one of the teachers, Lois Miller, Don Herschell, or Christine Welling. Our 250th Anniversary plans are coming together. If interested in any of our committees or if you have photos or anything that pertains to the anniversary, please bring it to church so we can document them, then return them to you.
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together, we take some time to share our weeks, and any prayer requests we may have. If you have a request to share, please add it as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Lord, direct us to our knees, and seal our commitment and desire to be devoted to communing with You in prayer. Let our church be know as a house of prayer. Keep us awake, alert. Fill our hearts with joy no matter the circumstances as we come to You as a church body in prayer. Amen
Today's lesson is on 1 Kings 8:22-24, 37-39, 46, 48-50.
The ceremony in 1 Kings 8 consecrated the newly built temple in Jerusalem. Temple construction began in 966 BC and required seven years for completion. That completion in 959 BC marked an important transition in Israelite history, as the location of encounter with the holy God became immovable, with the temple replacing the portable tabernacle. The first half of Solomon's 40 year reign was focused on building the temple and palace. Today's lesson considers a portion of the dedication prayer at the ceremony for the finished temple, over which King Solomon presided.
Several preparatory elements led up to this prayer : the temple had been completely furnished, the ark of the covenant had been brought into the temple and the king had “turned around and blessed the whole assembly of Israel.” The prayer of dedication that followed is the second longest prayer in the Bible – in the neighborhood of 1,000 words. The standing posture of prayer Solomon adopts is the most commonly seen in ancient Near eastern art. And by the time Solomon concludes the prayer, he will have switched from standing to kneeling. In both postures, the fact that Solomon spread his hands toward heaven adds an aura of solemnity and earnestness. It reflects the idea of God as being far “above creation.” Humans look “up” to God, seeking help during their hour of need. Solomon voiced his prayer not just for his own benefit but on behalf of the whole assembly of Israel. These were especially those Israelites who were in attendance personally for the temple dedication. Their presence is important partly because they must overhear the exhortations to avoid sin and partly because God wishes to emphasize the relationship with the people of Israel. They were united with each other and God by their history, present life, and hope for a blessed future, In a sense, they are being dedicated as much as the temple.
Verse 23-24
One area of uniqueness appears in keeping covenant in his merciful love. While Israelites were responsible for obeying God's commandments, their relationship with God rested primarily upon his covenant promise. It was not earned by human merit. The people should hear and receive the Law of Moses with enthusiasm, commitment, and even rejoicing, as emphasized throughout Deuteronomy. Mindless routine obedience cannot be the goal of the relationship because it is not sustainable. Those who follow God without enthusiasm will stop following at a slight provocation. The promise to David that his offspring would build the temple, now fulfilled, is evidence of God's faithfulness. The eventual destruction of kinship and even that of the temple did not cancel God's plan for Israel; rather, God used these events to symbolized his presence as they pointed to greater, eternal realities regarding spiritual and heavenly kingship and temple. God may carry out his promises in various ways, but the promises always remain just that.
Verse 38-39
Solomon asks God to reply to any prayer offered by those either in the temple or mindful of it. The prayer does envision Gentiles praying. But here, the focus remains on Israelites as those especially subject to the curses following a violation of the covenant. The phrase the afflictions of their own hearts speaks to pangs of conscience. Each person knows his or her own troubles and can express them in prayer as hands are lifted toward this temple. This may work on two levels; the suffering of the people as a whole may be expressed in different ways by different individuals, and each person should be aware of his or her details and ably communicate about them to God. Prayer can take may forms. On one hand, It depends partly on forms shared by the community as a whole over time. On the other hand it depends partly on individual experience and perception. Humans do well to know their own hearts and minds as God knows them. That's an ideal to strive for, although it is impossible to attain since God knows us better than we know ourselves. Indeed, we humans have a tendency towards self-deception. If God responds to prayer on an assessment of need, how much more are his responses in reaction to the direction of one's heart. The divine response follows a sequence that begins with an appeal for God to “hear” this in ancient Israelite prayers. Then God forgives, since a request for help usually accompanies self-assessment and turning away from sin. Then God acts appropriately This sequence is relevant because moral and spiritual ground must be cleared before action occurs. At the same time, God does assess the ways of the person praying. Wicked people who defy God's call cannot utter legitimate prayers. That's because their intention is not to change their ways but to escape some immediate trial. The verse also insists that God knows the thoughts of all people, not just Israelites. This insight leads to the expectation that Gentiles may also pray toward the temple and ask for God's help.
Verse 46 Inevitable sin
The prayer takes an important turn, assuming that the people may sin so grievously that the covenant might fail as the Israelites are removed from their promised land. This event did occur. These envision the loss of the land as a punishment, and the return to it as an effect of God's mercy, respectively. The relationship between Israel and God was not based on human achievement but on God's love and kindness. So the prayer ends with a request that God will renew the people even after their communal sins have resulted in the curses of Deuteronomy 28. Even the collapse of their culture ought not to be the last word. God remains just and punishes sin, but he also shows mercy.
Verse 48-50
This part of Solomon's prayer assumes that suffering will cause people to reflect on their lives and amend them. It also assumes that God will hear their prayers of repentance when uttered in a land of exile. This means, in turn, that God's presence is universal and that he is interested in the prayers of people seeking change and redemption. The verse also reveals the idea of praying toward the temple in Jerusalem. It may be the earliest evidence for that practice. Much later, Daniel prayed facing Jerusalem while in Babylon. God takes no pleasure in our suffering, even when we have earned it. Spiritual reform sometimes results in suffering since we need to eliminate certain attitudes and behaviors. But even the suffering draws the compassion of God and of righteous people. We hasten to add that this verse nor any other Bible text implies that all suffering is deserved. Much is not. 
Conclusion
One of the most puzzling features of prayer in the Bible occurs in this prayer at the dedication of the Temple. Here, Solomon voiced the nation's prayer for forgiveness as part of its ongoing life together. In this case, Solomon prayers for forgiveness of sins that had not yet been committed! In that regard, the prayer serves as a reflection on the entire history of Israel, from the time of the exodus of 1447 BC (481 years in the past as Solomon uttered this prayer) to Nebuchadnezzar's forced removal of the citizens of Judah in 586 BC (380 years after the prayer). To understand the prayer, it is important to place it within the larger context, the story of Israel in the promised land, covering the entire books of Joshua through 2 Kings. Both that history and Solomon's prayer reflect a realistic assessment of the human condition and the tendency of human beings to fail. The Bible does not try to pretend that a perfect, sinless time existed at some point after the Garden of Eden. Idolatry and oppression occurred regularly, they still do. Solomon's prayer foreshadowed the outcome found in 2 Kings 25. Even so, Israel's story, as recorded in the books of Joshua through 2 Kings, is not an obituary but a warning and an invitation to a better life. Solomon's prayer rests on the assumption that God seeks to heal and forgive, even when (or especially when) sins threaten to overcome the sinners. God defends penitent people from those who would oppress them – and even from themselves. The worship by Old Testament Israel and the New Testament church celebrate the expansive nature of God's mercy. We are thereby reminded to beware of the traps that require it. The prayer in 1 Kings 8 is, therefore, realistic but also hopeful. The dedication of the holiest spot on earth (at this time) was connected to the reality of unholiness. Solomon cast the nation of Israel as a whole on the mercy of God. In so doing, Solomon sought God's commitment to continue working with the people continuously as part of their centuries-long process of learning and obeying. Today, the church would do well to recover the biblical practice of confession of sins, both of the individuals and of the church as a whole. Part of the recovery would involve acknowledging that the temptations to harm others or dishonor God do not go away. We will need forgiveness in the future, and we need humility in the present. Solomon's prayer shows us a way forward.
Prayer
God of mercy, Lord of love, hear the cries of all who need you. Even when our sins have trapped us in suffering, show us mercy. Do not let us be overwhelmed by our bad decisions or those of others. As Jesus called even those who betrayed him to feed his sheep, call us into your eternal kingdom. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen Thought to Remember Sin is real but so is God's mercy.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Next week's lesson will be on 2 Kings 19:14-20, 29-31.
Prelude: Ron Dobscha
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CALL TO WORSHIP: In Christ, we have true freedom. Outward acts are no longer signs of our devotion to God but hearts turned in faith to Christ are. We worship God not with empty religious practices but with hearts that love and delight in Him. We died with Christ, He has made us alive in Him. Come and worship Him, the one in whom true freedom is found. INVOCATION:
* Hymn “ Take My Life” #697
* PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (Unison) Father, we often think that all You want of us is the right routine. If we go to church enough, if we volunteer in enough programs That is all that You desire. We are guilty of wanting to appear Religious yet ignore Your commands. We devote ourselves to You on Sunday mornings and then turn from You the rest of the week. Forgive us for offering words of devotion to You but withholding our hearts. Forgive us for being satisfied by going through the motions and not offering our full devotion. Have mercy on us for these sins and the many we carry every Day. Amen *Time of silent prayer. *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri #581 *Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Psalm 138 Don Herschell Sermon Text: Colossians 2: 16-23 *Hymn “Thy Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet” # 458 *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 “What a Fellowship, What a Joy Devine # 837 *Benediction Postlude: Ron Dobscha
Birthdays: Linda Miller, Mary Hathaway
Anniversaries: Tom & Linda Miller John & Barb O’Hara 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. I have added to the prayer list a new item. There are a few surgeries coming up in the next few days and weeks. Please check the prayer list for who they are and what surgery they are having. You’re invited to join us for Sunday School!! We will meet after the worship service in the Sunday School room behind the folding doors. Our fall quarter is all about worship in the Old Testament. Each week, we read a passage from the Bible, and learn about the content and background. We discuss how that passage informs our faith and our lives. It is a great time for fellowship and learning more about God! If you have any questions, please feel free to talk to one of the teachers, Lois Miller, Don Hershell, or Christine Welling. Our 250th Anniversary plans are coming together. If interested in any of our committees or if you have photos or anything that pertains to the anniversary, please bring it to church so we can document them, then return them to You.
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Ricci Amos, Sandy Stone, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Chuck Harton, Suzy Smith, Fred Wilkinson, Donna West, Marley Smith, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Helen Provenzano, Carol Pierce, Jim King, Mary Stoey, Johnny Yurko, Ron Poznic, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabensue, The McFeely’s, Chuck Kapaika, Nellie Baker, Kayla Horner, Ed Stavovy, Tommy Ann Sanders ( 5 yr.old), Ron Westfall, Margaret Danna, Mary Ann Durila, Carolyn Knabensue, Linda Morgan, Dan, Doug, Marilyn Ward, Shirley Richman, Norma Jean Kelso, David Smith, Karen Hunter
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to stay and 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, use this prayer to get started.
Thank you, Lord, for calling us into your family and for grafting us into the line of Abraham through Christ. Thank you for all the blessings that we enjoy as followers of Jesus Christ. Despite our high calling, we are still human and realize many obstacles and hindrances lay ahead for us, as for all Christians. Help us to exercise wisdom and grace in dealing with others, and help us not to become a hindrance to our brothers and sisters in the faith. For we ask it in Christ’s name. Amen.
This week's lesson is on Genesis 13:8-18.
Lesson context
The story of faith begins with Adam and Eve being expelled from the Garden of Eden because of their sin and disobedience. From then on, God takes the initiative to restore humanity and creation. God’s restoration plan begins with a series of covenants God makes with 75-year-old Abram and his wife. In the fullness of time, God would send the Messiah through their descendants — the nation of ancient Israel — to inaugurate the new creation. Thus God would fulfill his cosmic design. Through Jesus, a person can become a child of Abraham by joining the family of God through faith rather than by being born into a particular nationality. God’s covenant with Abram (Abraham) included promises of a land, progeny and blessing, but it took centuries for it to become reality. The first step in the developing relationship between Abraham and God was for Abraham to respond to God’s call to leave his country, his people and his father’s household and set out for an unknown land. The text for today is about a distraction that occurred when Abram took his nephew Lot along on the journey. This resulted in problem after problem, including the one described in today’s lesson.
Abram’s offer (verses 8 and 9)
Both Abraham and Lot were prosperous nomadic herdsmen, which was a common occupation in the ancient Near East. Maintaining a large flock required abundant resources of water and fertile land, and when the men came into Canaan they found it to be suitable for their purposes. However, because their flocks were very large, even this land could not support both of them if they lived too close to each other. Abraham suggested they separate so that each had enough resources to support their flocks. To avoid conflict and quarreling, especially because of their close relationship, Abraham suggests two locations that will allow each enough room to prosper without impinging on the other’s land. Abraham further allows Lot to choose which direction he will take his flocks. Whichever way he goes, Abraham will go the opposite way. Abraham his taking a risk by making the offer, but Lot will eventually suffer the consequences of choosing his own self-interest.
Lot’s choice (verses 10-13)
Lot saw that one area was particularly appealing. The plain of the Jordan near Zoar — one of five cities in the lower Jordan Valley — is well watered “like the garden of the Lord.” Part of what this description implies is that, like the Garden of Eden, the area had abundant natural water supplies. Lot’s workmen would therefore be spared from having to dig wells by hand. It is interesting to note that, from the point where Lot makes his decision, he will now be moving east. In Genesis, traveling east has been associated with moving away from God. Adam and Eve were driven eastward from the Garden of Eden. After killing his brother and after God had pronounced his punishment, Cain moved east to the land of Nod. Before arriving at Shinar (Babylon), the people who built the Tower of Babel moved east. At this point, Lot is a nomadic herdsman, pitching his tent “near Sodom”. But the next time the Bible mentions him, he will be living “in Sodom” (14:12). Lot has transitioned from being a nomad to being a permanent foreign resident.
God’s promises (verses 14-16)
The narrative now switches back to Abraham. Lot having moved away, God expands his promise to Abraham. God promises to give all the land that Abraham can see to him and his descendants forever. Assuming Abraham is standing at the spot where he offered Lot a choice of locations, the promised includes about 13,700 square miles, an area about a third the size of Tennessee. In addition, God promises hyperbolically that Abraham’s offspring will be as numerous and uncountable as the dust of the earth. Remember that, at this point, Abraham is a childless 75-year-old man.
Abram’s tour (verses 17 and 18)
God next instructs Abraham to walk through the land that God is giving him. In the ancient world, this was the equivalent of claiming ownership of it. Then Abraham settled in Hebron, near the great trees of Mamre. He pitched his tent there, and he built an altar to the Lord. Stone altars were common in the ancient Near East. Abraham was surely familiar with them through his exposure to pagan altars in his homeland. Altars also served as monuments designed to memorialize places where important events had happened. They reminded the observer of the ongoing importance and significance of what had taken place there. This would be a significant place for Abraham throughout the rest of his life. In fact, he and his wife, Sarah, were buried in a cave near their home in Mamre. 
Conclusion
God’s first words to Abraham (as Abram) were a directive to leave home (Genesis 12:1). He left his extended family behind as he journeyed toward and within the land God had designated. God deliberately separated him from his past to create a new nation from him — a nation to usher in the Messiah. We may wonder how homesick Abraham became from time to time. We may also wonder if Abraham ever wished he hand’t taken Lot along! The importance of Abraham (who lived about 2000 BC) in salvation-history should not be overlooked. His names “Abram” and “Abraham” appear on the pages of the Old and New Testaments nearly 300 times, with about 28 percent of those occurring in the New Testament. In Hebrews 11, Abraham is enshrined in “Faith’s Hall of Fame.” His example has much to teach us yet today. In a sense, Abraham’s story is ours as well. God wants us to know the Messiah he has sent. But for that to happen, sometimes God has to separate us from relationships, events, jobs, etc., that stand in the way (Mark 10:28-31; Luke 5:27-28). Those separations may come either in order that we may know Jesus or as a result of knowing Him. Those who have experienced such severances may have an inkling of Abraham’s faith. His willingness to place faith in God before all else makes him stand apart, a hero of faith (Hebrews 11:8-10; compare Galatians 3:9). God expects similar faith even today. When we believe we are called to a different situation, God may not reveal all the details of how to do so and why. If he did, then there would be no room for faith! We should not be surprised if our journey involves taking a “Lot” along. In the Genesis narrative, that man was nothing but trouble for his uncle. More importantly, it’s vital that we not be a “Lot”!
Prayer
Father God, send us into the troubled world as your ambassadors so that we may make disciples as we remind others of what you have done for us. Give us eyes like Abraham to perceive the nature of faith. May we not be a short-sighted “Lot”! We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for discussion
Benediction
Next week's lesson will be on 1 Kings 8:22-24, 37-39, 46, 48-50.
Prelude: Carol Smith
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CALL TO WORSHIP: We were once dead in our trespasses but in Christ, God has made us alive! In Christ, we have been forgiven all of our trespasses. Our record of sin, as it was, has been cancelled. It was nailed to the cross, and we bear it no more, Our God has put the enemy to shame. And so we will walk in Him! We are rooted and built up in Him! Let us worship Him today, the Lord Jesus who takes away our sin. INVOCATION:
* Hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! # 1
* PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (Unison) Lord, we come to You with a ledger of sin that we seem to add to everyday. Our actions do not reflect the love and devotion we have toward You, our thoughts and our hearts do not reflect our submission to You. Even though we confess that You have bought us at a great price, we give ourselves to lesser things. We trust though that through faith, You cancel the debt that we have built up. That You alone can forgive and forget our wicked ways. So we turn to You again this day for mercy. We look to You as our hope bringing us from death to life. Amen. *Time of silent prayer. *Assurance of Pardon *Response – Gloria Patri #581 *Passing of the peace Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Psalm 92 Mary Esselstyn Sermon Text: Colossians 2: 6-15 *Hymn “Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound. # 649 *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 “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine! # 839 *Benediction Postlude: Carol Smith
Birthdays: Carley McCoy
Next week, we will be switching our worship and Sunday School times. Worship will be at 9:45 am, and Sunday School will be directly after. 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. Our 250th Anniversary plans are coming together. If interested in any of our committees or if you have photos or anything that pertains to the anniversary, please bring it to church so we can document them, then return them to You.
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Ricci Amos, Sandy Stone, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Chuck Harton, Suzy Smith, Fred Wilkinson, Donna West, Marley Smith, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Helen Provenzano, Carol Pierce, Jim King, Mary Stoey, Johnny Yurko, Ron Poznic, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabensue, Norma Jean Kelso, The McFeely’s, Chuck Kapaika, Nellie Baker, Kayla Horner, Ed Stavovy, Tommy Ann Sanders ( 5 yr.old), Ron Westfall, Margaret Danna, Mary Ann Durila, Carolyn Knabensue, Linda Morgan, Dan, Doug, Marilyn Ward
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together, we take time to share our weeks, and any joys and concerns we have. If you have a prayer request, please add it to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Dear Lord God,
We come before You today with humble hearts. Prepare us to study Your Word. Show us how to be teachable. Help us to lay aside areas where we are stubborn and where we cling to our own sins. Let Your Word change us! May we faithfully and accurately interpret Your Word today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Today's lesson is on Titus 3:3-11.
Lesson Context
Paul's letter to Titus is a Pastoral Epistle, written to a specific person. It was written after Paul had been released from his imprisonment in Rome, and visited the island of Crete. Titus was a gentile believer who accompanied Paul on Crete. Titus stayed on Crete to correct a chaotic situation in the Cretan churches. The church there was troubled by people who professed to know God, but lived demonsterably different lives. Such people had deceived others, disrupted the community, and brought needless controversy to the church.
Gospel Reminder (verses 3 - 8)
This passage opens with Paul's reminder that everyone has sinned. We are disobedient by rebelling against the standards of God. This can lead to a person's self-deception of what is right and wrong. It can also affect a person's relationships with others -- causing envy, anger, and hate. However, God provided a way to free us from sin and evil. This arises from God's character, particularly his kindness and mercy. The ultimate example of his kindness has come through God's sending of his Son, Christ Jesus, to pay sin's price through the sacrifice of himself on the cross. This display of kindness would lead humanity to repentance. No matter what good acts we may do, we cannot ever earn salvation. Our merciful God has provided a way for salvation that does not require righteousness. Instead, he has initiated our salvation through his gift of grace. By his mercy and grace, we are justified by faith. Therefore we are saved. Our book says that the washing of rebirth could refer to baptism, or it could refer generally to the spiritual cleansing from sin that results from our salvation. In this new life, we are dead to the ways of sin. The Holy Spirit transforms us into new people devoted to following God and obeying his commands. We become the heirs of God and benefactors of God's promises regarding glory. Paul says that we have the hope of eternal life. Here, hope is not wishful thinking. It is a certainty, a confidence that the promises made by God to his heirs will come true. Paul directs Titus to stress the things that have been taught up to this point in the letter. This includes: the human condition; the kindness and love of God; salvation through grace; purification by the Spirit, and; the hope of eternal life. These points of doctrine are the core of the gospel message. By teaching these things, the believers would hear, obey and trust. They would be devoted to obeying God. By obeying God and having faith, believers will do good works. This is a result of the presence of God in that person's life. Good works are the result of salvation, not the source of it.
Gospel Behavior (verses 9 - 11)
After discussing "profitable' behavior in light of salvation, Paul describes the unprofitable behaviors for believers pursuing godliness. This includes things like useless debate, arguments, genealogies, and quarrels over the law. Our book says that this may mean some of the false teachings had to do with aspects of the law of Moses and human ancestry. A divisive person creates discord and disruption. Paul's directive for discipline has a certain amount of patience. Divisive people could receive two warnings. After the second warning, the church should outright reject the person. This would give the troublesome part ample opportunity to repent and change. By following the directive, Titus would no longer give attention to those who brought distraction and division to the church. 
Conclusion
When churches emphasize the gospel, the spiritual health of its members improves. Instead of being focused on distractions that lead to division, believers can become devoted to doing good works that result from godliness. Paul retells the gospel message that begins with the kindness and love of God that results in our salvation and culminates with being made new through God's Spirit. In response to Paul's directives to Titus, we should reflect on his teachings and the practices of our churches. Ask yourself if your church focuses on the gospel and living out its teachings. Then, ask yourself the same question. Do you focus on the gospel and living out its teachings? Have distractions threatened your spiritual livelihood?
Prayer
Kind and loving God, we thank you for your mercy and grace by which you have saved us. Help us be more attentive to the Spirit's leading into renewal and rebirth so that we might do good works in your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Next week, we will be starting the fall quarter.
Prelude: Ron Dobscha
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CALL TO WORSHIP: Everyone who serves God come and offer thanks. Thank You God for Your love to us. Everyone who has gathered in this place, lift your hands and praise God. Thank You God for Your love in this place. Shout praises to God for you are God’s servants, so shout praises. Thank You God for Your faithfulness. Praise the name of our God who is kind and good. Thank You God for Your love endures forever! We come to worship You today. INVOCATION:
* Hymn “We Are One in the Spirit” # 300
* PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (Unison) Most gracious and merciful God, we confess to You that time after time, we have offered sincere sounding prayers, but our hearts have been closed to Your grace. We have lifted our hands to You in praise, but our feet have still walked in the way of sin. We have heard Your word and celebrated Your sacraments, but we have refused to see the needs of our neighbor. Forgive our lack of faith and love. Grant us the cleansing that can only come from You. We pray 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 for Illumination Scripture reading: Psalm 111 Kirkland Cipoletti Sermon Text: Colossians 1: 24 – 2: 5 Baptism of Wilder David Neil *Hymn “Blest Be the Tie That Binds” # 306 *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 “Standing on the Promises” # 838 *Benediction Postlude: Ron Dobscha
Birthdays: Marilyn Ward, Don Hanes
Anniversaries: Tim & Janet Schivley Sympathies: To the Family of Connie Palmer To the Family of Bill Buxton Both are friends of Debbie Durila 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. Our 250th Anniversary plans are coming together. If interested in any of our committees or if you have photos or anything that pertains to the anniversary, please bring it to church so we can document them, then return them to You. Schools are starting back this week. Be safe and courteous !!
Continuing Prayer List
Chuck Dicks, Ricci Amos, Sandy Stone, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Sarah Wilson, Carl Weber, Chuck Harton, Suzy Smith, Fred Wilkinson, Donna West, Marley Smith, Haley Diedier Bedillion, Helen Provenzano, Carol Pierce, Jim King, Mary Stoey, Johnny Yurko, Ron Poznic, Betty Fisher, Tim Knabensue, Norma Jean Kelso, The McFeely’s, Chuck Kapaika, Doug Ward, Nellie Baker, Kayla Horner, Ed Stavovy, Tommy Ann Sanders ( 5 yr.old), Ron Westfall, Margaret Danna, Mary Ann Durila, Carolyn Knabensue Good morning! We're so glad you decided to join us today! When we meet in person, we take some time for fellowship and sharing. If you have any prayer requests you would like 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, thank You for Your Word and for calling me into Your family, through faith in Christ. Help me to take heed of all that You would teach me, and use me, I pray, to point the lost to Christ and to encourage those that are saved by grace. Thank You that we have been equipped with knowledge of the truth, which is according to godliness. Thank You, in Jesus' name, AMEN. Today's lesson is on Titus 1:1-3; 2:11-15. The Book of Titus deserves our attention as we look to the Bible for instruction on how to live a life pleasing to our Lord. We can learn what we should avoid as well as that which we are to strive to imitate. Paul suggests we seek to be pure as we avoid the things which will defile our minds and consciences. And then Paul makes a statement which should never be forgotten: “They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good” (Titus 1:16). As Christians, we must examine ourselves to be sure our lives line up with our profession of faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5). 5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you--unless, of course, you fail the test? Along with this warning, Paul also tells us how to avoid denying God: “He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior” (Titus 3:5b-6). By seeking a daily renewal of our minds by the Holy Spirit we can develop into Christians that honor God by the way we live.  Prayer God, our Savior, we thank you for the gift of grace that has appeared in your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for your gift of salvation and the hope that we have because of it. By the power of your Spirit, help us to live godly and pure lives. In the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen. Thought to Remember We have a “blessed hope”! Questions for Discussion
Benediction  Next week's lesson will be on Titus 3:3-11.
This morning's service was a shared one at the Washington County Fair. We also took some time at the beginning of the service to remember Dana Wilson.
Old Testament Lesson: Numbers 21:4-9
New Testament Lesson: John 3:14-21
Good morning!
We are at the Washington County Agricultural Fair for the 11 am church service today.
Please feel free to read the lesson! You can also comment if you would like to discuss it.
Since we are not meeting in person this week, we won't be able to have our typical time of sharing. However, we still invite you to share any prayer requests as a comment below. This way, we can still pray for you! When you are ready, use the prayer below to get started.
God I invite you to come into my life and empower me to live an honorable life of faith, always doing what pleases you. When I stumble, help me to get back up and keep walking with You. Thank you for saving me. Now I am a child of God!
Today's lesson is on 1 John 3:1-10.
We are unsure of the issues that faced the letter's original audience, Apparently, they had been confronted with threats to their faith. Some of these threats included the temptation from an early form of the attractive heresy we call Gnosticism. Among other things, Gnostics taught that it did not matter whether a person had morality or love – as long as he or she had “secret knowledge.” To combat this false teaching, John emphasized the connection between right belief, right actions, and right love. The child of God must believe the truth, obey the commands, and love the brethren. False teachers were so bold that John referred to them as having a “spirit of antichrist.” John wanted their influence eliminated lest they split the church further.
In contrast to the children of God, the world has failed to know God and his abundant love revealed through Jesus Christ Therefore, the world is also unable to know the children of God. As a result, believers can anticipate facing hatred from the world. As God's children, we do not fully know God's plan for our lives. But we know we will someday be changed. What we eventually will be has not yet been disclosed fully. Even so, we know this: when Jesus appears at his second coming, we shall see him as he is because we will see him face-to -face. At that time, we shall be like him. Christ will transform our bodies into something glorious. In and through this transformation, we will share in Christ's glory. It is he who is pure, meaning he is sinless. Christ's blood shed on the cross is the means through which our purification from sin occurs. John's directives in this verse mirror Jesus' teachings: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect”. Human perfection is impossible on earth. However, we should make every effort to live pure and upright lives as children of our perfect heavenly Father. Having established the life of purity required for God's children, John presents the danger that believers face: that of sin. Sin is foolishness, the opposite of faith, falling short of God's glory, a willful failure to do good or any wrongdoing. Ultimately, sin turns people into enemies of God. Simply having knowledge of Jesus is not enough . Instead, believers should seek understanding of Christ and conform their lives to that knowledge. Only one person could take away humanity's sins: Jesus Christ. Only Jesus has the power to deal with sin because he was a sinless Son of God. He and he alone could take away our sins through his sacrifice on the cross. John begins a contrast of two types of people. The first is the person who lives in Christ. Jesus taught that believers should remain in him because he is the source of spiritual life. Believers do so by receiving his teachings and obeying them. Doing so does not mean that believers will be perfect and without any sin. Rather, when we follow the perfect, sinless Savior, we can pursue lives of holiness and righteousness. The second type is the person who has neither seen Christ nor known him. Some people in John's original audience had apparently claimed that they could know God but continue to live sinful lives. This false belief led to a strong correction from the apostle: it was not possible to both love God and love sin. Some people in the community had attempted to deceive the believers and lead them astray from the truth. We can assume that these teachers had wrongly taught that a person could be righteous without behaving righteously. In contrast to the righteous person is the person who does what is sinful and disobeys God's law. People who willfully oppose God and his truth are following the devil's lies. This spirit of disobedience results in a person's spiritual death. Since the introduction of sin at the beginning, the devil has opposed God and the people of God. The devil' opposition comes through temptation. Therefore, believers should “not give the devil a foothold. Instead, we should make every effort to resist the work of the devil. To read a book that deals more with this topic, I would recommend “Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table” by Louie Giglio. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to earth a sacrifice for human sin. By doing so, he triumphed over the devil.. Although Christ has already won the victory, the devil has power in the world for a time. That power, however, is limited. Someday, Christ will return to destroy the devil and devil's work. God's children will continue to wage war against sin and its effects. Although we have been released from sin and freed from its condemnation, our sinful nature will continue until Christ returns to deliver us. When John says that believers cannot go on sinning, he does not mean that we will live perfect lives. Instead, John's words are meant to encourage us to seek godly and upright lives. Believers can avoid life of sin because they have the seed of God in them. This seed is 'planted” when believers receive the gospel and the Holy Spirit. Only through the power of God's Spirit that remains in us can we fight sin. A person's status is also measured in how he or she loves other members of the family of God. As the love of God fills believers. The person who habitually fails to act with righteousness or demonstrate love is not God's child. 
Conclusion
Rubrics help learners understand expectations and how to achieve an assignment's intended goals. Today's Scripture gives us a rubric for whether or not we live as though we have been filled by God's love. If his love has changed our lives, then we will seek lives of holiness and demonstrate love for others. God's love has transformed us, but we are still affected by the presence of sin. Until the ultimate defeat of Satan, we will fail to behave or love as we ought. In the meantime, God has given us tools to help us grow spiritually. He has given us his Spirit to transform us into Christ likeness. God has also provided us with a spiritual ”family”; other children of God. These spiritual “siblings” can encourage us to live according to the rubric of life that God has given us.
Prayer
Loving God, you have shown us tremendous mercy and brought us into your family. We repent of the times when we have failed to love you and our neighbors. Show us how we might better notice the Spirit's leading so that we will not remain in sin. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
Questions for discussions
Benediction
Next week's lesson will be on Titus 1:1-3; 2:11-15.
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